"Be Your Best" is hosted by professional horse trainer and clinician, Phil Haugen. Inspired by his “1% better everyday" training philosophy, Phil explains the methods, mindset, and performance tips that drive continuous learning and growth in horsemanship, as well as in life. Join us each week as Phil shares his experiences over the past 30 years in the horse training industry, discussing the methods that have helped him bridge the language barrier between horse and rider to enhance understanding and performance from foundation to finish.
S5 E15 · Tue, April 15, 2025
Your horse is only as consistent as you are. If you want your horse to be more consistent, that consistency has to begin with you first. In this episode, I’m sharing how your habits and mindset directly shape your horse’s confidence, foundation, and ultimately, the consistency of their performance.
S5 E14 · Tue, April 08, 2025
Road to the Horse was everything I thought it would be―and more. From picking my colt to riding the obstacle course in the final round, this journey was one of the biggest challenges―and growth moments―of my life. Join me as I share my insights from the competition and what I'm taking away from this experience. Episode Resources: Watch the Replay of RTTH 2025: https://roadtothehorse.com/how-to-watch-road-to-the-horse-2025/
S5 E13 · Tue, April 01, 2025
I recorded this episode just before heading out to Lexington for Road to the Horse 2025. Now that the event has come and gone, it’s interesting to look back and see how the themes I talked about truly played out in real time. In this episode, I’m diving into the importance of staying true to your brand—what it means to trust your process, build your brand through every experience, and embrace the philosophy of “no risk, no story.”
S5 E12 · Tue, March 25, 2025
In this episode, I am sharing some final thoughts before we pack up and head to Lexington, Kentucky, for my first ever Road to the Horse competition. The journey of getting here has been full of full-circle moments, and I could not be more excited to get in that round pen at Kentucky Horse Park and showcase the impact that the horse has had on my life. Episode Resources: Watch the Livestream of Road to the Horse 2025: https://roadtothehorse.com/how-to-watch-road-to-the-horse-2025/ View the Road to the Horse Competition Schedule: https://roadtothehorse.com/event-schedule/
S5 E11 · Tue, March 18, 2025
In this week's episode, I am covering the importance of establishing control of one of the five main body parts of a horse: the ribcage . This episode is inspired by a question from one of our listeners who was having challenges with her barrel pattern. Tune in as I address this topic, as well as share a recap of our first colt starting mentorship of the year. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E10 · Tue, March 11, 2025
As we are preparing for a week of colt starting mentorships, I want to share one of the most important fundamental skills we cover in our first day of training: being present. Any time you are working with a horse (especially a colt), there is always an inherent risk factor to be aware of. In this episode, I am sharing some best practices for maintaining safety when handling horses. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E9 · Tue, March 04, 2025
How many times do we let our thoughts get in the way of our own success? As I am preparing for one of the greatest challenges of my training career, Road to the Horse , I am reminded just how important it is to take control of my thoughts. In this episode, I am sharing the importance of reframing your thoughts and mastering the art of "talking" yourself into success. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
Tue, February 25, 2025
In this episode, I'm breaking down some of the essential elements that truly make a difference in horse training. Whether you're working with a young horse, refining an older horse’s skills, or troubleshooting a specific challenge, understanding the key factors at play can help you build a more effective and rewarding training program. We'll cover: ✅ The role of equipment selection – how the right tools can enhance communication. ✅ Why time is one of the biggest factors in successful training ✅ How reading your horse can help prevent frustration and help you adjust your approach in real-time. ✅ The importance of building a connection —because a willing, trusting horse makes all the difference. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E8 · Tue, February 18, 2025
How many times in life do we make decisions based on fear? Whether it is the fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of uncertainty, or another hesitation, there are moments in life where we may be scared to take the necessary next step forward. Our horses are very intelligent beings that have similar hesitations when they are put in new or uncomfortable situations. In this episode, I am sharing some advice on how to help your horses face their fears and develop confidence outside of their comfort zone. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E7 · Tue, February 11, 2025
In this episode, I am sharing a recap of our first public clinic of the year in Llano, TX, as well as a funny story from a recent trip to the chiropractor. Join me as I uncover the importance of always maintaining a mindset of growth and learning how to find little lessons in everyday life. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E6 · Tue, February 04, 2025
This week , we’re diving into the important distinction between coaching and training. While training a horse often focuses on the physical aspects—what they can do and how they respond—coaching goes deeper, engaging the emotional and mental components of horsemanship. A great coach doesn’t just teach; they lead, communicate, and encourage, helping both horse and rider develop confidence, understanding, and trust. In this episode, I'm sharing some parallels between coaching and horsemanship, emphasizing how a thoughtful, patient approach can create lasting progress in and out of the arena. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E5 · Tue, January 28, 2025
In this week's episode, I am breaking down the meaning of the quote: "A goal without a plan is just a wish." Join me as I share some insights on how to take this theory and implement it effectively into your everyday life. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E4 · Tue, January 21, 2025
By nature, horses come with certain traits and characteristics, some of which are developed early on in their foundation, and others that are purely genetic. As a trainer, it’s important to recognize the difference between foundational traits and genetic traits in horses and understand how they shape the way we train. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E3 · Tue, January 14, 2025
In this episode, I am covering the four phases of a horse's mental game, understanding how to identify which phase your horse is in, and how to help the horse switch to a productive state of mind. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E2 · Tue, January 07, 2025
What is the cost of doing this? For years, that is the question I used to ask myself any time I considered investing in myself or my training business. And for years, this mentality kept me stuck right where I was. Until one day, I realized that I should have been asking myself, what is the cost of not doing this? In this episode, I'm breaking down my perspective on determining cost vs. reward and sharing the one mindset shift that changed the game in my personal development journey. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S5 E1 · Tue, December 31, 2024
In this episode, I'm joined by 2024 Road to the Horse Champion, Tik Maynard. Tik's story is truly inspiring, as he shares his journey from growing up in the English riding world to discovering a passion for natural horsemanship. Join us as we dive into Tik's training background, the progression of his horsemanship journey, and a behind-the-scenes look at his preparation for Road to the Horse. Episode Resources: Road to the Horse: https://roadtothehorse.com/ Tik Maynard Bio: https://roadtothehorse.com/tik-maynard-canada-2/
S4 E52 · Tue, December 24, 2024
In this week's episode, I'm filled with so much joy and gratitude as I reflect on the past year. Join me as I share some of my main focuses for the year ahead in hopes that it will inspire you to find small ways to be your best every day. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E51 · Tue, December 17, 2024
Resilience is a trait many of us in the western industry naturally possess, but it’s also a skill that needs to be strengthened from time to time. Life has a way of throwing challenges our way, and in those moments, training our minds to focus on the positives becomes essential. In this episode, I’m sharing highlights from our recent trip to Las Vegas for the NFR and the World Series of Team Roping Finale. Along the way, I’ll reflect on the experiences that reminded us of the importance of resilience, perspective, and maintaining a positive mindset, no matter what comes our way. Episode Resources To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E50 · Tue, December 10, 2024
In this week's episode, I'm joined by Mark Upton with Central Life Sciences, parent company of Starbar, Clarifly, and Farnam, to discuss proactive approaches to facility management as an equine professional. Tune in to hear Mark's advice for what you can do during the winter months to prepare for a successful spring training season. Episode Resources: To learn more about our partnership with Central Life Sciences, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E49 · Tue, December 03, 2024
In life and horsemanship, I believe there are three things you have to have to be successful: work ethic, passion, and opportunity. The great thing about this trio is that work ethic and passion are a choice, and opportunity is something that you can draw to yourself. While others may have different opportunities than you, I firmly believe that you have the power to create and attract your own opportunities. Join me as I share some perspectives on this topic and how it applies to my goals for the rest of this year. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E48 · Tue, November 26, 2024
In this week's episode, I'm sharing a wrap up of our 2024 clinic season, along with a very special story about a family who has truly embraced the challenge of being your best every day. Join me for a dose of inspiration and a reminder to look at each day as an opportunity to be the best you can be. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E47 · Tue, November 19, 2024
In this episode, I am sharing a recap of the first colt starting mentorship weeks hosted at our training facility in Weatherford, OK. Join me as I share some behind-the-scenes insights from the colt starting mentorship experience and a preview of our 2025 events. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E50 · Tue, November 12, 2024
In this week's episode, I am breaking down my colt starting methods for teaching the release in the round pen. Join me as I share some ground work tips and explain the importance of engaging the thinking side of a horse's brain during the weanling, yearling and 2-year-old stages. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E49 · Tue, November 05, 2024
In this episode, I am previewing our upcoming Colt Starting Mentorship weeks and addressing two questions from our audience about physical conditioning and setting realistic timelines for getting with a new horse. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E48 · Tue, October 29, 2024
In this episode, I am addressing two questions from our listeners about what to do when you feel unprepared or disadvantaged in certain situations. Join me as I share some advice and tips on taking control of your thought processes when self-doubt creeps in. Episode Resources: To join our online training community, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E47 · Tue, October 22, 2024
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing some insights and experiences from our fall mentorship programs, both online and in-person, that really highlight the importance of continued investment in yourself. Join us to hear more about the experiences these trainers have gone through and how a simple commitment to personal development reaps lifelong benefits. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development mentorship programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships (in-person) or philhaugenhorsemanship.com/virtual-mentorships (1:1 online mentorship) or philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership (group online mentorship). To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E49 · Tue, October 15, 2024
In this week's show, I am joined by 10X NFR Qualifier and founder of the Liberty and Loyalty Foundation, Charly Crawford. Join us as Charly shares his insights on the importance of building a strong foundation in life, business, and horsemanship. Episode Resources: Charly Crawford Training: https://charlycrawford.training/ Liberty & Loyalty Foundation: https://libertyandloyaltyfoundation.com/
S4 E48 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Progression, in any endeavor in life, is dependent upon a series of moments. From the small moments of learning to the big lightbulb moments that change our perception of a concept for the long-term, every moment is a significant part of our journey. In this episode, I'm sharing a story that reminded me to focus on these incremental moments in the process instead of just focusing on the end result. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E47 · Tue, October 01, 2024
When training a horse, it can be easy to adopt a results-oriented instead of process-oriented mentality. When we focus on short-term results in our training sessions, we tend to lose sight of the main purpose of our training, which is to establish long-term foundational gains. In this episode, I'm sharing some stories from our recent clinics about the benefits of process-oriented training and how giving your horse a job can help build their foundation for long-term success. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E46 · Tue, September 24, 2024
In the training journey, it can sometimes feel like you are in a never-ending season of challenges. But, if there's one thing that I have realized through my own experiences and seeing others' experiences at clinics, it is that we are all going through the same challenges, just in a slightly different way. In this episode, I'm sharing some thoughts on keeping things in perspective and shifting your focus to the most important aspects of your training program. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development mentorship programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships (in-person) or philhaugenhorsemanship.com/virtual-mentorships (online). To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E45 · Tue, September 17, 2024
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Duane Chappell with Merck Animal Health as he shares insights and advice for managing risk of infectious disease by establishing solid systems for vaccination and biosecurity at your training facility. Join us as we dive into a wide variety of equine health topics, including: Understanding different types of vaccinations and when to administer each Vaccination schedules for foals and mature horses Establishing biosecurity routines at your training facility Best practices for disinfecting bits, tack, pens and other areas around your training facility And much more! About Dr. Chappell Dr. Duane Chappell has spent his career improving the health of horses through his work in the field, in the classroom and on research projects. He joined the Merck Animal Health Equine Veterinary Professional Services team in 2014 and currently serves as Associate Director, Equine Pharmacovigilance and Professional Services. Before joining Merck Animal Health, Dr. Chappell practiced at mixed animal clinics in the Midwest. He owned and managed solo and group practices and was the resident veterinarian at a Quarter Horse breeding farm. He also served as research monitor, participant and leader in trials involving Rhodococcus equi , equine influenza, exercise cytokines and plasma antibodies while in practice and academia. Episode Resources: Get Vaccinating Right: https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/species/equine/get-vaccinating-right Foal Vaccinations: https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/species/equine/foal-mare-care/foal-care-overview/foal-care-vaccinations To learn more about Merck Animal Health, visit: https://philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors
S4 E44 · Tue, September 10, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing more about my journey to Road to the Horse 2025 and the excitement of being selected as one of the Championship Competitors. Tune in to hear more about how I'm preparing for this event and the mentality I have going into the competition. Learn more about Road to the Horse: https://roadtothehorse.com/
S4 E43 · Tue, September 03, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing some perspectives around getting more effort out of your horse―and, it might not be the advice you're expecting. Join me as I share an important lesson about helping your horses reach their full performance potential by understanding the relationship between effort and reward. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E42 · Tue, August 27, 2024
In this episode, I'm addressing some FAQs about our public and private clinics, mentorship weeks, and online training and mentorship programs. Join me as I break down each of these training opportunities and share more about how you can get involved with our upcoming virtual and in-person training events. Episode Resources: To become a member and join our monthly mentorship sessions, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership To sign up for a public clinic, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/2024-clinics To request a private clinic, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/private-clinics To join our online training community, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses To apply for a mentorship week, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships To sign up for a virtual mentorship package: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/virtual-mentorships
S4 E41 · Tue, August 20, 2024
In this episode, I'm covering a question from one of our listeners: "I would love to hear a discussion about setting yearlings up for success. I've got a 10 month old colt coming home this month and this will be my first experience with one this age. He is coming from an awesome breeder who has taken a lot of time to get him off to the right start and I would love to continue to do so once he's home." Tune in to hear my tips for establishing foundational skills at a young age and setting your weanlings and yearlings up for success. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E40 · Tue, August 13, 2024
On this episode, I am joined by Phil van Harreveld, DVM, MS, DACVS-LA, Senior Equine Professional Services Veterinarian with Merck Animal Health to discuss best practices for caring for horses with colic, as well as preventing infection in wounds near the joint area. Before joining Merck Animal Health, Dr. van Harreveld practiced as an equine veterinary surgeon for more than 22 years. He pioneered the first equine referral hospital in Vermont, which he founded and operated for over two decades. In addition to handling the hospital’s field cases, he managed the in-house medical and surgical case load. He considers his favorite accomplishment to be the training of more than 18 veterinary interns with whom he still stays in contact and provides support on a regular basis. Dr. van Harreveld received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from North Carolina State University, and his master’s degree and surgical board certification from Kansas State University. Episode Resources: To learn more about Merck Animal Health, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E39 · Tue, August 06, 2024
In this episode, I'm addressing a question from one of our listeners, Abby: "I have a 2 year old who is ready to start under saddle, but I can not get her to canter. The more I push, the slower she gets. She will canter with another horse in the round pen. I have not had this problem before and I am not sure what to do? I don’t think she will canter under saddle if she refuses on the ground. Would you have any guidance for me? I really appreciate it." Join me as I share some advice for Abby in this situation and explain the importance of reading your horse and getting them to respect and respond to your cues. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E38 · Tue, July 30, 2024
You can't always control the first thought that comes into your mind, but you can control the second. Likewise, you can't always control the first thought that triggers a reactive response in your horse, but over time, you can learn to control the second. Tune into this episode to learn more about my perspectives on colt starting and how learning how to control your own thoughts can translate into being able to control your horse's thoughts and reactive responses better. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E37 · Tue, July 23, 2024
Whether you are dealing with challenges with your horse or with life in general, having a solid foundation to fall back on is paramount to progress. Join me for this episode as I share two perspectives around building a winning foundation and how to come back to this foundation when you get off track. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's foundational training and personal development programs, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E37 · Tue, July 16, 2024
On this episode, I am joined by Dr. Cara Wright, DVM, MS, IVCA with Merck Animal Health to discuss best practices for preventative health, deworming and biosecurity, creating an optimal training environment for our horses. Dr. Wright has focused her career on the needs of the equine athlete, integrating modalities such as chiropractic and rehabilitation to keep horses working and feeling their best. While living overseas, she ran a successful equine veterinary relief practice, which allowed her to work in various practice settings in the United States and Australia. Join us as she shares her insights on how to keep horses feeling and performing their best with these simple horse health habits. Episode Resources: To learn more about Merck Animal Health, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E36 · Tue, July 09, 2024
In this episode, I'm addressing one of the most frequently asked questions at my clinics: "What bit do you use?" Join me as I break down my bit selection process and how to better understand the role that your bit plays in communicating with your horse. Episode Resources: To learn more about Phil's favorite bits and training tools, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E35 · Tue, July 02, 2024
This episode is inspired by a comment from one of our listeners on a recent post we made about the power of having a vision: "I remember hearing you say on one of your podcasts that a visiting friend or relative had made a comment that you seemed so happy and content. You said it was because you were now working half as hard and getting twice the amount of work done. But, I know it wasn’t always like that. So, how do I get there? I can’t possibly work any harder than I currently am, getting up at 3 in the morning, getting my chores done, paperwork done, plan for the day mapped out, riding 6-10 horses a day, many of them colts who still require a lot of ground work, thinking it will somehow “work out” if I just keep working hard and want it bad enough. And I’m happy to do it! I love this life! But, I seriously don’t see how a trainer ever gets ahead. If I hire a couple kids to help with chores, sure, it gives me more time to focus on the training, but it eats up any profit margin I had. So, I just work harder and do it all myself. Buy the best quality alfalfa I can find and feed myself Ramen noodles for supper. I don’t mind the sacrifices...giving friends and family their “deal” because I want to be kind, but dang, those are actually the last people who should be asking for a “deal!” My best mare always gets the last, exhausted, beat up piece of me at the end of a long hot, 16 hour day. That genuinely makes me sad. She deserves better. And, so do I. But, I don’t know how to make it better. I don’t even know what my vision is. I thought it was “you’ll know it when you see it,” but it’s not that easy I guess. What’s all the stuff in between?" Tune in as I share my insights and experiences from being in the exact same place in my training career and the steps I took to overcome my season of overwhelm and overworking. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E34 · Tue, June 25, 2024
As I work with more and more trainers across the country, business strategy continues to be one of the most prominent topics of discussion for new and emerging trainers. Join me for this episode as I share some insights on the process of finding your niche and how refining your area of expertise can be a powerful transformation in the training business. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E33 · Tue, June 18, 2024
This episode is inspired by a question from one of our listeners: "I would love a podcast on how a rider can regain their confidence after an injury. My gelding spooked and bucked me off while riding in an arena with friends. I broke my pelvis. Although I am back to riding, I’m still scared to canter him in an arena. Thanks in advance!" Join me as I share some advice on this topic and my phased approach to building confidence in horse and rider after an injury. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E32 · Tue, June 11, 2024
This week's episode is a continuation of our series inspired by the Leonardo da Vinci quote: "Success lies in the relentless execution of the basics." Join me as I share some insights on how this principle applies to performance anxiety. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E31 · Tue, June 04, 2024
This episode is inspired by a quote from Leonardo da Vinci shared by one of our recent clinic hosts: "Success lies in the relentless execution of the basics." Join me as I uncover the application of this quote in various scenarios, including dealing with separation anxiety. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E30 · Tue, May 28, 2024
If there's one thing I've learned over the past 40+ years in the horse training business, it's the power of a growth mindset. One of the reasons I believe I have been able to survive as long as I have in this business is, somewhere along the way, I embraced the fact that horsemanship is really just a series of continual learning opportunities. Join me as I share some insights on how to embrace the journey of continual growth in your training career. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E29 · Tue, May 21, 2024
As I get to stick around longer, life constantly reminds me of what is important in life. Over Mother's Day weekend while I was surrounded by family, I found myself reflecting on the importance of investing your time and energy in the right places. Join me as I share some insights on how to make the most of the time you have available and maximizing your efficiency as a trainer. In this episode, I'm also sharing a preview of some of our new training opportunities releasing in fall 2024 and 2025. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To learn more about Mentorships with Phil Haugen, visit: https://philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E28 · Tue, May 14, 2024
My dad always used to say, "why do we always seem to have time to do things right the second time around?" In other words, hurrying usually costs you more time in the long run. In the horsemanship journey, learning the difference between hustling and hurrying can make or break your progression in training. Join me as I share some insights on this topic and help you frame your mindset around being productive at a controlled pace. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E27 · Tue, May 07, 2024
On this week's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jyme Nichols with Bluebonnet to discuss the considerations that go into crafting your horse's nutrition program and setting your horses up for success from the inside-out. Join us for this insightful, knowledge-packed episode! Episode Resources: Follow Dr. Jyme on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjyme/ Free Nutrition Consults with Bluebonnet: https://bluebonnetfeeds.com/nutrition-consult/ Explore Intensify® Omega Force®, as mentioned in the episode: https://bluebonnetfeeds.com/intensify-omega-force/ Feed Room Chemist: An Equine Nutrition Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2u1mXQstzvHv6uOmDOKz4r
S4 E26 · Tue, April 30, 2024
In this episode, I'm recapping a recent clinic and sharing some perspectives on the relationship between progression and confidence. Join me as I break down the formula for creating confidence, both in yourself and in your horses. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E25 · Tue, April 23, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing an inside look at what it is like to experience a horsemanship clinic, recapping a recent clinic from our 2024 Be Your Best Clinic Tour. Join me as I share some of the key themes discussed at these clinics, the skills we focus on, and the reasons why each clinic is a unique experience. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E24 · Tue, April 16, 2024
In this episode, I'm revealing the single most important skill that you must master to succeed in the horse training business. Join me as I share my thoughts on the importance of this skill and how developing this skill can be the biggest determining factor on whether or not you experience long-term success as a professional trainer. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E23 · Tue, April 09, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing three perspectives on the word "balance" and how you can apply these perspectives to various aspects of your personal and professional life. Join me as I break down the journey of finding balance for yourself and your horses in your everyday training. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E22 · Tue, April 02, 2024
In this episode, I am recapping two of our recent clinics and mentorship weeks and sharing some of the valuable lessons that came about during these events. Tune in as I share my perspectives on the importance of applying a growth mindset to life, business and horses. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E22 · Tue, March 26, 2024
In this episode, I'm joined by long-time friend, fellow horseman, and fly control expert, Mark Upton, as we discuss how to take a proactive approach to the spring training season. Join us as we share our thoughts and experiences around facility preparation, controlling flies in and around the barn, and how adopting a proactive mentality can help make your training more efficient. To learn more about the fly control products shared in this episode visit: Clarifly Larvicide: https://www.centralflycontrol.com/ Starbar Products: https://www.starbarproducts.com/ Farnam Vetrolin Spray Wash: https://www.farnam.com/all-products/grooming-care/vetrolin-body-wash Questions about how we use these products at our facility? Feel free to send us a message at info@philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S4 E21 · Tue, March 19, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing some life reflections and thoughts about a question from one of our loyal listeners: "When you've been training a horse for an extended period of time and things just aren't progressing the way you'd hoped, how do you know if/when it's time to move on?" Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E20 · Tue, March 12, 2024
In this week’s episode, I am sharing some tips for dealing with horses who are experiencing separation anxiety and how to prepare them for situations where they will be alone at home and on the road. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E19 · Tue, March 05, 2024
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing some perspectives on resilience and why it is essential to have a resilient training mindset. Tune in as I dive into the topics of mental toughness, effort, and creating an environment that fosters continual growth and development for you and your horse. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E18 · Tue, February 27, 2024
In this episode, I'm recapping my recent clinic in Stephenville, TX and sharing some important conversations we had around embracing opportunities for growth. Tune in to learn more about how a growth mindset can impact your training journey and some common opportunities for growth that you can look for in your day-to-day training. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E17 · Tue, February 20, 2024
In this episode, I'm sharing some recent experiences that opened my eyes to the inherent challenges and opportunities that each day presents. Tune into this segment to learn more about shaping your perspective around challenging circumstances and focusing on an opportunity-centric mindset. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E16 · Tue, February 13, 2024
In this episode, I'm breaking down a recent philosophy I heard from John Maxwell: "Comparison is the thief of joy." Tune into this episode to hear my thoughts on how this applies to the horsemanship industry and what trainers can do to avoid falling into the comparison trap. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E15 · Tue, February 06, 2024
In this episode series, I'm joined by the CEO of Equibrand, Ken Bray, as we discuss what it takes to set yourself up to train, compete and win in every arena of life. We'd like to extend our appreciation to Equibrand for being continued supporters of the Be Your Best Horsemanship podcast and the Phil Haugen Horsemanship brand. Be sure to head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors to learn more about our favorite products and support their brands: Classic Equine, Martin Saddlery, Classic Ropes, Rattler, and Cashel. Episode Resources: To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E14 · Wed, January 31, 2024
In this episode series, I'm joined by the CEO of Equibrand, Ken Bray, as we discuss what it takes to set yourself up to train, compete and win in every arena of life. We'd like to extend our appreciation to Equibrand for being continued supporters of the Be Your Best Horsemanship podcast and the Phil Haugen Horsemanship brand. Be sure to head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors to learn more about our favorite products and support their brands: Classic Equine, Martin Saddlery, Classic Ropes, Rattler, and Cashel. Episode Resources: To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E13 · Tue, January 23, 2024
The smallest details are often the ones that make the biggest impact. In this episode, I'm sharing some of the details that are important to pay close attention to as you progress a horse through its training. A special thank you goes out to Equibrand for being continued supporters of the Be Your Best Horsemanship podcast and the Phil Haugen Horsemanship brand. Be sure to head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/sponsors to learn more about our favorite products and support their brands: Classic Equine, Martin Saddlery, Classic Ropes, Rattler, and Cashel. Episode Resources: To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E12 · Tue, January 16, 2024
This episode is all about the concept of "focus on what you do well, and do it even better." In this segment, I'm sharing some ways that I am prioritizing the application of this philosophy to my horsemanship, as well as other areas of my life this year. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E11 · Tue, January 09, 2024
As we enter into a new year, I wanted to dedicate an episode to the topic of goal setting. But, this isn't your typical episode about goal setting―it's what to focus on instead. Sometimes, achieving more doesn't mean setting higher goals; it means keeping the promises you make to yourself. Tune in to hear more about how I've changed my approach to goal setting over the past 10 years and how this approach has allowed me to get more enjoyment out of my life and business. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E10 · Tue, January 02, 2024
In this episode, I'm talking more about the importance of keeping the horse's front end freed up and sharing some experiences of working on this skill with a filly we currently have in training. Tune in as we cover this, as well as some personal development practices for the new year. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E9 · Tue, December 26, 2023
As trainers, we are always looking for ways to enhance the efficiency of our daily operations so that we can get more accomplished in the limited time we have available. In this episode, I'm diving into the topic of optimizing your facility for success and sharing some easy ways that you can make adjustments to save yourself some steps and add valuable time to your training routine each day. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E8 · Tue, December 19, 2023
In this episode, I'm sharing some insights on the importance of being able to engage and disengage a horse's hindquarters. Establishing control of this key body part aids in balancing your horse's body weight, which in turn improves their performance and promotes soundness in the front end. Tune into this episode to learn more about the fundamentals of hindquarter control and the benefits of having a horse that is balanced on their front and hind end. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E7 · Tue, December 12, 2023
Conditioning, both physically and mentally, is one of the most pivotal things we can do to improve our chances of being successful inside the arena. Success is where preparation and opportunity meet, and conditioning our horses and ourselves is part of this preparation process. If we are missing the conditioning piece, we will not be fully prepared to take advantage of the opportunity when it presents itself. In this episode, I’m sharing more about the importance of conditioning and how being disciplined in this area can create huge changes in your performance. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E6 · Tue, December 05, 2023
Success is when preparation meets opportunity. As trainers, we can't always control the opportunities we are presented with, but we can control our level of preparation. On this episode, I'm sharing a few stories about the mentality needed to be successful and how preparation plays an important role in the longevity of your training career. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E5 · Tue, November 28, 2023
While we all want our horses to listen to our cues, sometimes, we can get to a point where our horses are anticipating their next move so much that they begin to lose their speed instinct. In this episode, I'm covering a question submitted by one of our listeners about re-establishing "run" and speed in a horse that has gotten ratey around the barrels. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E4 · Tue, November 21, 2023
In this episode, we're continuing our two-part episode series about taking responsibility for your success. In this segment, I'm breaking down some topics from our recent mentorship week, including: Managing expectations and timelines Developing a process-oriented perspective Expanding on the relationship between goals, motivation, discipline and progress and more. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E3 · Tue, November 14, 2023
Sometimes, the road to success isn't as smooth or as short as we hoped it would be. On this episode, I'm sharing some insights from our recent mentorship week about the power of controlling your self-image, developing habits of discipline, and taking responsibility for your success. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E2 · Tue, November 07, 2023
On this episode, I'm finishing out the conversation about the topics I cover during the first morning meeting at my clinics. The purpose of this meeting is to help trainers not only understand how to perform the fundamentals of horsemanship, but also understand why we are doing things the way we are. Join us for the final segment of this multi-part episode series. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E1 · Tue, October 31, 2023
On this episode, I'm continuing the conversation about the topics I cover during the first morning meeting at my clinics. The purpose of this meeting is to help trainers not only understand how to perform the fundamentals of horsemanship, but also understand why we are doing things the way we are. Join us for the next segment of this multi-part episode series. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E52 · Tue, October 24, 2023
On this episode, I'm continuing the conversation about the topics I cover during the first morning meeting at my clinics. The purpose of this meeting is to help trainers not only understand how to perform the fundamentals of horsemanship, but also understand why we are doing things the way we are. Join us for the next segment of this multi-part episode series. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E51 · Tue, October 17, 2023
On this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes to introduce you to the topics I cover during the first morning meeting at my clinics. The purpose of this meeting is to help trainers not only understand how to perform the fundamentals of horsemanship, but also understand why we are doing things the way we are. Join us for this multi-part episode series. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E50 · Tue, October 10, 2023
On this episode, I’m recapping our recent mentorship week and sharing some of the highlights of this experience. These mentorship weeks are not only designed to progress horsemanship fundamentals, but the fundamentals of being your best in every arena of life. Join me as we dive into some of the topics we incorporated into this mentorship experience. Episode Resources: To learn more about Mentorship Programs with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships . To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E49 · Tue, October 03, 2023
Horsemanship is a mental game, both for trainers and their horses. If we are not in the right mental state to progress a horse in its training, we cannot expect our horses to reciprocate that trainable mentality. On this episode, I'm sharing some insights on how to win the thinking game and the fundamental mindset shift you must make to achieve consistent progression in your horsemanship. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E48 · Tue, September 26, 2023
The mind is the most powerful tool we possess. When it comes to horsemanship, we are not only dealing with our own mental energy, but we are also working to manage the mental energy of the horse we are training. On this episode, I’m sharing some examples of how influential the mind can be on our horses’ behaviors and talking about how to manage positive and negative mental energy within ourselves and our horses. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S3 E47 · Tue, September 19, 2023
On this episode, I'm recapping our recent clinics in Corvallis, Montana and Eaton, Colorado, and sharing some foundational principles that we worked on in the timed events. One of the biggest areas of focus during these clinics was fine-tuning our communication and leadership skills to focus on applying the "1% better everyday" rule to our performance and progression. Tune in to hear more about the skills we worked on during these clinics and how you can take these principles and apply them to your everyday training program. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E46 · Tue, September 12, 2023
If you made a plan and stuck with it consistently for 2 years, where would you be? I think that’s a question many of us have an easy time thinking about, but a hard time committing to. In the horse training world, 2 years can seem like both an eternity and a very brief window of time in a horse’s training journey. On this episode, I'm talking about the value of keeping your signals consistent and the importance of committing to the daily processes that are going to get you to that end result. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E45 · Tue, September 05, 2023
Every one of us has a limited amount of time in the day. So, when it comes to training, it is important to make that time count. On this episode, I’m sharing some experiences I’ve had with managing my time, schedule and training techniques to give my horses the best opportunity to succeed. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E44 · Tue, August 29, 2023
I came across a list this week called, "The 6 Key Things Success Demands," and it was remarkable how applicable this list was to horsemanship. On this episode, I'm breaking down these key components of success and explaining how to implement each of these habits into your daily training routine. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E43 · Tue, August 22, 2023
On this episode, I am joined by a very special guest, Mark Upton of Central Life Sciences. Mark is a long-time friend, an excellent horseman, and an advocate for the western industry. Join us as we chat about our experiences in horsemanship, how the horse industry has evolved, and the tools we use to keep our horses at their best. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E42 · Tue, August 15, 2023
As outdoor temperatures rise, our horses begin to require a little extra care and attention to keep them at their peak performance level. On this episode, I'm sharing some maintenance shifts that we make during the summer months to keep our horses well-nourished, well-hydrated, and feeling their best. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E41 · Tue, August 08, 2023
Speed is a complex response, acting as both a horse's natural self-defense response and a desired attribute in performance events. The delicate balance between controlling speed and harnessing it can prove to be one of the most challenging parts of horsemanship, especially when you are dealing with a naturally strong, "chargey" horse. On this episode, I'm sharing some techniques for managing speed and maintaining communication with horses who have strong reactive tendencies. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E40 · Tue, August 01, 2023
Seasoning horses is a part of the training process that can be one of the most mentally challenging phases of horsemanship. On this episode, I'm sharing some thoughts on how to approach building a horse's confidence in unfamiliar situations away from home and the psychology behind setting expectations for seasoning a horse. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E39 · Tue, July 25, 2023
I’ve always considered myself to be a very forward-thinking person. I rarely pause to look back at the past–I’m always thinking ahead and planning what I’m going to do next. While I believe that this forward-thinking mentality has served me well in many areas of my life, I also believe that it causes me to forget to slow down and appreciate the little things from time to time. On this episode, I'm sharing a story about a blast from the past and how this moment of reflection reminded me about the importance of operating with a present mindset and an attitude of gratitude, and explaining how my horses benefit from this mindset. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E38 · Tue, July 18, 2023
Have you ever been reading something on your phone and having a conversation with someone at the same time, only to realize minutes later that you have no idea what the other person has been talking about? It's not that you are intentionally ignoring them; it's simply a glitch in how the human mind works. It's a proven fact that the human mind can only give full attention to one thought at a time. Although some of us claim to be expert multitaskers who can juggle multiple tasks at once, the truth is, none of us can give 100% attention to more than one task at a time. On this episode, I'm diving into the art of (not) multitasking and explaining why doing less is actually more productive. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E37 · Tue, July 11, 2023
On this episode, I am joined by Holly Longest, owner of Jettin Bye Farm in Quinton, VA. Holly owns and operates a full-time, all-inclusive equine rehabilitation facility and trains horses both privately and publicly. Join us as we dive into a day in Holly's life as a multidisciplinary equine business owner and discuss the keys to balancing life, business and horsemanship. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E36 · Tue, July 04, 2023
Horsemanship is a skill that can be developed over time. While some individuals may possess natural talents that lend themselves to having great horsemanship, it is important to understand that skills are not solely reliant on innate abilities. On this episode, I’m breaking down the science of skills and explaining how thinking of confidence and self-image as skills can contribute to success inside and outside of the arena. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E35 · Tue, June 27, 2023
We all know that confidence is one of the biggest determining factors of success, both for ourselves and our horses. However, the path to building confidence is unique to each individual. When it comes to horses, not every horse will respond to our signals in the same way. That's why it is important for us, as trainers, to be aware of these individual tendencies so that we can adapt our communication in a way that promotes a maximum level of confidence from our horses. On this episode, I’m sharing some examples of how I’ve had to adapt my communication style to help certain horses overcome extremely reactive tendencies and build confidence in unfamiliar situations. Additionally, I'm sharing a few words of encouragement for those who are rebuilding their own confidence after time off or recovering from an injury, as they venture back into the competitive arena. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E34 · Tue, June 20, 2023
This episode was inspired by a topic request: “Which horse do you ride first each day? Do you like to start with your easiest set of horses first, or your more challenging ones?” Join us as we dive into the topic of time management and how to manage your training schedule effectively. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S3 E33 · Tue, June 13, 2023
On this episode, I'm sharing insights from our recent horsemanship clinic in Giddings, TX where we discussed the importance of mastering the fundamentals, focusing on the plan rather than just the results, creating moments for release, and making small adjustments for big impact. In this episode, you'll learn my philosophies on how prioritizing preparation can lead to massive results in your performance as a trainer, as well as your horse's performance. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E32 · Tue, June 06, 2023
Bits and training equipment are some of the hottest topics of discussion at many of my clinics. With so many great options for training tools out there, it can be challenging to know which tools to use in a given scenario with a given horse. On this episode, I'm breaking down my philosophies on bits and other training equipment and how to use these tools to demonstrate better communication and leadership with my horses. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E31 · Tue, May 30, 2023
No matter what stage of training you are at, we are all living some version of the same journey. It’s a journey filled with peaks, valleys, frustrations and victories. It’s a journey that will evoke the full spectrum of emotions. Understanding how to navigate the ups and downs of the horsemanship journey is the key to maintaining momentum and continuing to progress 1% one day at a time. On this episode, I'm sharing some thoughts on riding the waves of the training process and things to consider as you are building your training program. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E30 · Tue, May 23, 2023
On this episode, I am joined by the founder of X Factor Team Roping and X Factor Barrel Racing, Pace Freed. X Factor has grown to become the #1 rated training app in our industry and has expanded access to knowledge tremendously. Join us as we chat about the evolution of the roping industry, the role of horsemanship in competition, and where the rope horse industry is headed. Episode Resources: Team Roping: https://xfactorteamroping.com/ Barrel Racing: https://xfactorbarrelracing.com/ To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E29 · Tue, May 16, 2023
A horse training program is a lot like a business franchise. A franchise is simply a proven system for success. Depending on how a franchise is managed, one will thrive and one will fail due to poor application of the system. The same is true in horse training. On this episode, I'm sharing some perspectives on the application of knowledge and a few examples of how small changes in application can create tremendously different results in your training program. A Special Note from Phil: Coming off of Mother's Day weekend, I wanted to dedicate the first part of this episode to all the moms out there who listen to this podcast. For those of you listening who may be overwhelmed by your challenges in the horse training world, remember that the most important job title you will ever have is “mom.” The lessons you teach and the memories you create will always be your most important contribution. We love you, and we appreciate you! Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E28 · Tue, May 09, 2023
In my mind, there is one thing that separates the good trainers from the great trainers, and that is a commitment to continual growth. Those who continue to seek out and absorb new perspectives, new methodologies and new systems are the ones who recognize and embrace the fact that there is always more to learn. They understand that, no matter what level you have reached, there is always an opportunity to get 1% better. On this episode, I’m sharing some philosophies on embracing a growth mentality and the importance of continually committing to the journey of self improvement. Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E27 · Tue, May 02, 2023
Whether you are training horses personally or professionally, we are all in the same boat when it comes to optimizing the efficiency of our day-to-day operations. With a limited amount of hours in the day and operating expenses on the rise, we are all searching for ways to work smarter. On this episode, I'm sharing some recent changes I have made in my training program that have increased the efficiency of my feed and labor costs tremendously. Read the full show notes at phihaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes/183 . Want to try out the products mentioned in this episode? Use code philhaugen20 for 20% off HayChix® hay bags and nets at haychix.com .
S4 E26 · Tue, April 25, 2023
Have you ever looked at someone and thought, “wow, they’re so talented” or “they’re so much more talented than me?” While it’s true that we each have our own God-given talents that are naturally instilled in us, I believe that most of what we compare ourselves to is not other people’s talents, but their skills. On this episode, I’m discussing some fundamental differences between talents and skills and sharing how mastering the development of skills can get you to the next level in your life, business and horsemanship journey. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E25 · Tue, April 18, 2023
On this episode, I'm answering your inbox questions about my favorite bloodlines for performance horses and my experiences in training each. While I cannot speak to every great set of bloodlines out there, I am sharing my experiences with the horses I have personally trained and the characteristics that I liked most about each. I have been very fortunate to ride a wide variety of horses that have gone on to excel in barrel racing, roping, and other performance disciplines, and I am excited to share more about the progression of those horses' training. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E24 · Tue, April 11, 2023
No matter what level you have reached or how much money you have earned, I believe that we all struggle with feeling inadequate from time to time. Personally, I know there have been more times than I can count when I have felt inadequate in some area of my life or training career. Over the years, I've learned that I can't always control the first thought that enters my mind, but I can control the second. I can reroute that thought and change it into something more positive. On this episode, I'm sharing some strategies that have helped me overcome feelings of inadequacy. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Episode Resources: To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To learn more about Mentorship Weeks with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E23 · Tue, April 04, 2023
On this episode, I am joined by professional barrel racer and 4x National Finals Rodeo Qualifier, Emily Beisel to talk about her horsemanship journey and how she has progressed to the level of competition she is at today. Tune in to hear more about how Emily's barrel racing career got started, the "it factor" she looks for in horses, maintaining the right mindset for NFR-caliber competition, and the importance of learning from each horse and making adjustments to fit each horse's style. Episode Resources: Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E22 · Tue, March 28, 2023
One of my go-to drills for evaluating softness and speed control is loping a small circle. It’s a very basic exercise, but sometimes it’s the simplest exercises that can be the most revealing when uncovering the holes in our foundation. On this episode, I'm sharing the key benefits of loping small circles and what to look for when loping a 'perfect circle.' Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Episode Resources: To learn the exercises discussed in this episode, enroll in Foundation to Finish at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses/foundation-to-finish To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E21 · Tue, March 21, 2023
When we micromanage our horses, they get to the point where they are no longer looking for the answer – they’re simply waiting for us to manipulate their movements. When you put yourself in that position, you’re not teaching your horse anything. On this episode, I'm sharing my thoughts on avoiding micromanaging tendencies and giving your horses space to learn and make mistakes. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E20 · Tue, March 14, 2023
On this episode, I'm answering an inbox question about a topic that addresses one of the biggest mental battles we have to overcome as trainers: " What advice would you give to someone who is having a hard time enjoying the process of seasoning a horse? I was feeling really good about our progress for the first few months, and here lately, it seems like we are getting worse with each run. Adding speed, I'm sure, has a lot to do with it, but I also feel like I am not executing my job as a rider well enough. I'm experiencing some feelings of guilt, feeling like I am holding the horse back from reaching her full potential as I'm going through the process of learning to become a better rider for these younger horses." Tune in as I share the mindset shifts to make when you are seasoning a horse, as well as a few encouraging affirmations to help you maintain perspective in seasons of growth. To join the Be Your Best Membership with Phil Haugen, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/be-your-best-membership . To request a topic for our next episode, visit: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship !
S4 E19 · Tue, March 07, 2023
Whether we're seeking fulfillment in our training journeys, careers, or any other area of our lives, we tend to look toward the destination as a means for satisfaction. When we operate with a "results-oriented" perspective like this, we tend to lose sight of the parts of the everyday process that can be even more gratifying than the final result. On this episode, I'm sharing some thoughts on finding fulfillment in the process, not just the final product. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship. To request a topic for our next episode, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . To join the Be Your Best Insiders group, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe .
S4 E18 · Tue, February 28, 2023
I talk about the concept of "teaching effort" a lot when it comes to starting colts and training horses, but the truth is, this principle applies to everything we do in life. Each moment of each day, we have the chance to make a conscious choice about the level of effort we put forth. In this episode, I'm sharing a few examples of how making the decision to commit to effort has impacted the results I've experienced with my horses, as well as many other areas of my life. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship. To request a topic for our next episode, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast . To join the Be Your Best Insiders group, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe .
S4 E17 · Tue, February 21, 2023
Part of living is loss. As devastating as it may be, one of the guarantees of this life is that we will all experience many losses, whether that is the loss of a human being, a horse, or any other loss. When we lose a horse, we are not only losing that animal; we are losing the hopes and dreams that went along with it. Not only is there an emotional loss to deal with, but often times a financial loss as well. As horse owners, this is unfortunately a situation that many of us will encounter at least once in our lives. I can say from experience that it never gets any easier, but we do get stronger. On this episode, I'm sharing my perspectives on dealing with loss in hopes that it will bring comfort to those who are dealing with a similar experience. Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E16 · Tue, February 14, 2023
On this episode, I'm joined by the 2019 PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper, Haven Meged to hear his perspectives on horsemanship, rope horses, and how he approaches his career as a full-time competitor and trainer. Tune in as we talk about: The importance of horse power and how to prepare a horse for NFR-caliber competition What to look for in a calf horse and distinguishing between "good" and "great" horses The importance of taking the time to allow a horse to develop mental maturity Taking advantage of the opportunities you have and committing to getting better every day Outlooks on the rope horse industry and futurities in coming years Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E15 · Tue, February 07, 2023
When I first started training horses, I thought asking for help meant that I was accepting defeat. I thought if I asked for help, people would look at me like I didn't know what I was doing. Over the years, I've learned that it meant exactly the opposite. Nowadays, I ask for help because I know what I'm doing. I know that I can't possibly know everything about everything, but I can be smart enough to ask for help from someone who has already figured out what I am trying to learn. Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E14 · Tue, January 31, 2023
As trainers, we are either building our horses' confidence or destroying it. When introducing a horse to new levels of speed or exposing them to new situations, your progress is dependent on whether or not you can win this small daily battle of building confidence. On this episode, I’m building off of our conversation about starting colts on cattle and answering your inbox questions about keeping your colts safe and sane while exposing them to new situations and levels of speed. Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E13 · Tue, January 24, 2023
We all have days when we ask our horses for one response and get something completely different than what we were expecting. Any time you are progressing your horses to a new level or exposing them to a new situation, there is an opportunity for your communication methods to be interpreted differently. In this episode, I'm sharing some of the tools I use to communicate better with my horses, including bit preferences and how to know when its time to transition from one bit to another. Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E12 · Tue, January 17, 2023
Introducing colts to cattle is one of my favorite ways to begin building their confidence and establishing feel. Whether you have cattle or you are tracking a sled or Smarty dummy, the exercise of following a moving object can be an excellent stimulant for the horse's mind. On this episode, I'm sharing some training techniques and examples of how this exercise can be used to start developing feel, timing and balance and to help your horse build confidence in new situations Read the full episode show notes: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast-episodes Request a topic for our next episode: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast Join the Be Your Best Insiders group: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it and tag #beyourbesthorsemanship!
S4 E11 · Tue, January 10, 2023
How do you evaluate your horse’s performance? In competitive situations, it’s not hard to come up with benchmarks for evaluation. For example, it’s easy to determine what is a 1D barrel horse or an open/pro-level roping horse. It’s also easy to compare one horse against another – “this horse stops harder” or “this horse turns quicker” are pretty obvious evaluations to make. But, these benchmarks aren’t very useful when it comes to developing systems for winning performance. On this episode, I'm sharing how I have created a streamlined system for evaluating my horse's performance and how this has helped me strengthen their foundation. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E10 · Tue, January 03, 2023
I truly think the only way I can continue to grow and get better is to evaluate what I learned this past year. And this year, the one central theme that kept surfacing in my reflections was the value of time. On this episode, I'm sharing how understanding the value of one extra hour of time has impacted me this year and the lessons I’ve learned by prioritizing this time. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E9 · Tue, December 27, 2022
Between balancing your career, family, and personal responsibilities, finding time to prioritize preparation toward your personal goals can be a challenge. On this episode, I'm reflecting on some goals I had for this year and sharing how my level of preparation impacted my results as well as my new goals for the coming year. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E8 · Tue, December 20, 2022
Can I make a living as a horse trainer?” This is a question that comes up quite frequently. And to be honest, when I was first starting out my training career, I never really considered whether or not I could make a living as a horse trainer. I was more concerned about if I was a good enough horseman to create a valuable change in my horses. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E7 · Tue, December 13, 2022
On this week's episode, I'm joined by a very special guest―my daughter, Hannah Macy. Join us as we reflect on her life growing up as a horse trainer's daughter, lessons learned along the way, and how the western industry is still very much a part of her life both personally and professionally. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S4 E6 · Tue, December 06, 2022
During the holiday season, we often find ourselves filled with gratitude as we are surrounded by family and friends in celebration. It's easy to feel abundantly grateful in these seasons; however, when it comes to our normal everyday routines, these feelings of joy and gratitude can tend to fade. On this episode, I'm talking about the importance of finding joy in the seasons of preparation, not just the final destination. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E5 · Tue, November 29, 2022
If you are operating a full-time or part-time training business, it can be easy to feel like your income potential is limited by the amount of hours in a day. On this episode, I'm sharing some recent conversations from our mentorship program about diversifying your training business and ways to optimize your day to day operations to create more opportunity for profit, as well as more balance in your personal life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com. For more information about mentorships with Phil Haugen, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/mentorships.
S4 E4 · Tue, November 22, 2022
This morning, I was listening to Minute with Maxwell, a daily motivational clip by John Maxwell. The word he was speaking on was “intentional," and he said something that really struck me: "Most people don’t lead their lives, they accept them.” He goes on to explain that the way we grow is by being intentional about our thoughts and actions. On this episode, I'm sharing more about this idea of living intentionally, and how this can impact your training career, as well as your everyday life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S4 E2 · Tue, November 15, 2022
When it comes to our competitive mindset, we are often tempted to focus on our negative outcomes. We dwell on our mistakes, overanalyze our bad runs, and remember our shortcomings more than we should. When we think negatively about ourselves, this only reinforces a negative self image. On this episode, I'm sharing some fundamental beliefs about the self image from author Lanny Bassham of With Winning in Mind , and how his beliefs on personal development can be applied to your training career. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S4 E1 · Tue, November 08, 2022
When you reach a high level of performance, it can be easy to get stuck in a "good enough" mentality. But in order to stay at that high level, you always need to be looking for ways to make your best even better. On this episode, I'm joined by long-time friend and recent mentorship participant, Haley Nida, to talk about the progression of her barrel horses, balancing her career and horsemanship goals, and how she works to maintain high levels of performance in her personal and professional life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S4 E1 · Tue, November 01, 2022
On this episode, I am joined by barrel horse trainer, Sarai Angelle, of McDade, Texas, as we recap her mentorship experience and talk about all things barrel racing, futurity training, and building and maintaining confidence as a professional trainer. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E52 · Tue, October 25, 2022
In the horse industry, there will be many opportunities to feel challenged, frustrated or disappointed. However, there will also be many opportunities to feel confident, excited and proud of the work you've put in. On this episode, I'm sharing some stories from our fall mentorship program, why positive self image was such a focus during our mentorships, and how you can use positive affirmations to shape your training career. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E51 · Tue, October 18, 2022
Horses can’t read your mind, but they can read your body. That's why having consistency in body position and the way you ask for certain responses is key to developing your horse's confidence and understanding. In this episode, I'm sharing a few recent applications of this training principle in the performance events. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E50 · Tue, October 11, 2022
Have you ever had a day where you told yourself, "this just isn't worth it?" In the early years of my training career, I had this conversation with myself almost daily. And if we're being honest, there are still days when that question pops into my head. When you're in the middle of a challenging season, whether that is training horses or just life in general, it can be hard to see past the frustrations and recognize the growth that is happening within you. In this episode, I'm sharing a few words of encouragement for those days when you need a little reminder that the challenges are worth it. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E49 · Tue, October 04, 2022
When you are a goal-driven person, it is natural to put your head down and put in the work toward achieving your goals. But sometimes, you can become so laser focused on your goals that you miss the simple things that can take you from one level to the next. On this episode, I’m sharing how having an outside perspective can have a positive influence on your training outcomes. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E48 · Tue, September 27, 2022
In life, there are no guarantees that the opportunities that are in front of you today will stick around forever. So, how are you preparing yourself to take advantage of the opportunities that you have right now? On this episode, I'm sharing how mentorship has been such an influential piece in preparing myself for the opportunities ahead. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E47 · Tue, September 20, 2022
When it comes to training horses, the process of getting from where we are now to where we want to be can feel overwhelming. When you have high expectations for yourself and your horses, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that every movement you make has to be perfect. While it's important to be accurate with your cues, the expectation of perfect performance is not always realistic. On this episode, I'm talking about the importance of focusing on progression over perfection. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E46 · Tue, September 13, 2022
Have you ever felt nervous or intimidated about pushing your horse to the next level? For many years, I was afraid to put horses in positions where they may fail because I thought if they fell apart, I had failed them as a trainer. Over the years I’ve learned that the exact opposite is true. On this episode, I’m talking about the importance of training courageously so you can help your horse build confidence and grow into their full potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E45 · Tue, September 06, 2022
On this episode, I’m joined by WPRA World Champion roper, Kelsie Domer. Kelsie is one of the people I look up to most in this world, and she is someone who implements the concept of being your best everyday. Tune in as we discuss horsemanship, roping, personal development, and everything in between. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E44 · Tue, August 30, 2022
Some horses will challenge you. Some will change you. And, some will shift your perspectives on horsemanship for the better. While I have always placed a value on ‘training through understanding,’ it wasn’t until recently that I fully understood the value in helping my horse not only understand the responses I’m asking for, but to also understand why I’m asking for them. In this episode, I’m sharing a story of one horse that has impacted my perspectives on training and the methods I’ve begun implementing as a result of this new perspective. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E43 · Tue, August 23, 2022
At some point in life, everyone has asked themselves: "Am I good enough?" Regardless of what area of life you're talking about, there will always be thoughts that slip into your mind and make you question your abilities, your goals, and whether or not you're going to "make it." On this episode, I'm sharing some insight on these limiting beliefs and how being your best today truly is enough. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E42 · Tue, August 16, 2022
On this episode, I'm joined by the 2022 National High School Finals Rodeo All-Around Cowgirl, Pole Bending National Champion and Barrel Racing Reserve National Champion, Rayne Grant. Join us as we chat about Rayne's record season in rodeo, her preparation for this event, and her future plans for her training career. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E41 · Tue, August 09, 2022
When progressing a horse through its training, it is easy for us to feel like we aren't doing enough. In my experience, I've found that some of the best horses I've trained took a little extra time and patience than others. On this episode, I'm sharing a few stories about challenging horses I've had in training and why celebrating the small wins is such an important part of their training journey. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E40 · Tue, August 02, 2022
When working with young horses, you will often see their natural defensive, reactive tendencies come out when asking them to respond to pressure. Teaching a colt to respond to pressure instead of react to pressure is a critical step in the training process. On this episode, I'm sharing a few ways you can disengage the defensive nature of colts to enhance their understanding and confidence. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E39 · Tue, July 26, 2022
This week, I had a chance to visit with one of my best and oldest friends. This conversation brought a flood of memories back, and it reminded me that time truly is our most precious commodity. On this episode, I’m sharing some ways that you can maximize the value of your time with your horses, as well as making time for the things that matter most in your personal life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E38 · Tue, July 19, 2022
On this episode, I’m joined by my marketing director, Stacey Smith, to chat about how small, intentional actions have led us to continually pursue growth in business and in life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E37 · Tue, July 12, 2022
You always hear people say, "work hard, and success will come to you." While I believe this to be true, I also know that I have run myself into the ground just for the sake of "working hard." Over the years, I've learned that knowing when to take a break can be one of my biggest assets as a trainer. On this episode, I'm sharing my perspectives on how recognizing when I need to rest and recharge has helped me become a more productive trainer. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E36 · Tue, July 05, 2022
When it comes to routines, we always hear that consistency is key. But the truth is, there are very few things in this life that you will start and finish without some interruption along the way. It can become discouraging when we are interrupted and cannot maintain the routines we have worked so hard to establish. That’s why I believe the most important part of a routine is learning how to adapt it. On this episode, I'm sharing how implementing small changes in my routines has impacted my productivity. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E35 · Tue, June 28, 2022
Do you ever look at your to do list and feel overwhelmed? Do you ever feel like the distance between where you are and where you want to be is an impossible feat? As human beings, it's easy for us to get focused on the 99% that seems impossible instead of the 1% that we need to get started. On this episode, I'm sharing a story about the power of focusing on your 1% and how making a habit of just getting started can influence your life. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S3 E34 · Tue, June 21, 2022
I’m a big believer that there are always more opportunities to pursue, new heights to reach, and new ideas to consider. When I practice this mindset, I'm always striving to seek growth. I'm training my mind to avoid complacency, and to always be seeking things that make my best even better. On this episode, I'm sharing some of the ways my personal development journey has impacted my horsemanship journey and my ability to help my horses reach their full potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E34 · Tue, June 14, 2022
Horses naturally have 60-70% of their weight distributed on their front end. In performance events, this natural stance becomes problematic. When a horse’s weight is heavily loaded on the front end, it is very difficult for the horse to perform the quick, athletic maneuvers we need. As a result, the horse will push against us and be resistant to the responses we are asking for. On this episode, I’m sharing my experiences in learning how to counteract a horse’s bilateral, front-end loaded tendencies so that both horse and rider can enjoy their job more. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E32 · Tue, June 07, 2022
Have you ever been in a season of life where you felt like you were waiting? Maybe you’re waiting for a colt to grow old enough to ride, or maybe you’re waiting to heal from an injury. Maybe you’re waiting for your work schedule to become more manageable so you have more time to spend with your horses. Maybe you’re waiting for your finances to become more stable so you can invest more into your horsemanship. Whatever it may be, I know that waiting can be tough. But, what if you saw this time not as a waiting period but as a period of preparation? On this episode, I'm discussing five areas that you can focus on to make the most of your season of preparation. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E31 · Tue, May 31, 2022
As a professional trainer, it can be challenging to place a value on your time and expertise. Especially in this rapidly-evolving horse market, what is your time truly worth? On this episode, I’m breaking down my formula for managing my workload of customer horses and pricing my services so that I can deliver the best training experience for each horse. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E30 · Tue, May 24, 2022
Do you have a horse that gets anxious in the corner of the box or in the alleyway? If so, this episode is for you. On this episode, I’m covering some tips for helping your horse relax and engage the thinking side of its brain in high pressure situations. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E29 · Tue, May 17, 2022
This episode is a tribute to my dad–a man who taught me many things about life and horses. My dad was one of those people that always challenged others to be their best. If there's one thing I learned from him, it is the importance of a good work ethic. On this episode, I'm sharing some stories of how my dad's perspectives on hard work have impacted my life and career. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E28 · Tue, May 10, 2022
Have you ever heard someone say, “my horse just doesn’t get it”? Oftentimes, if a horse just isn’t ‘getting it,’ there’s a good chance that the signals that animal is receiving are not correct. Most trainers know the importance of being consistent; however, I often see trainers consistently sending the wrong signals to their horses. On this episode, I’m sharing a few small changes that can be made to consistently send the correct signals to your horses so that they understand the responses you are asking for. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E27 · Tue, May 03, 2022
For whatever reason, whether it be escalating futurity incentives or simply our human desire for immediate gratification, the age factor is one that greatly affects our expectations for where our horses should be in their training journey. The truth is, age is just a number–for both horses and humans. In order to provide your horse with the time and training that it needs, it is essential to let go of your need to compare yourself or your horse to someone else’s journey. In this episode, I'm sharing some encouraging words to help you worry less about the future and where your horses need to be, and focus more on what they need from you in this moment.
S3 E26 · Tue, April 26, 2022
When it comes to training, I live by the philosophy ‘less is more.’ If you take time to watch some of the top trainers in the world, it is very difficult to notice the cues they are sending their horses. That is by design. No matter the discipline, most of the elite trainers have developed such a high level of self-awareness that they are able to get more efficient responses from their horses by making subtle, intentional body movements. On this episode, I'm sharing tips for simplifying the cues you send your horses. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E25 · Tue, April 19, 2022
A horse’s body is naturally front-end loaded. It is estimated that 65-70% of a horse’s weight is distributed on the front end. But in the performance events, we want our horses to engage their back end. So, how do we bridge this gap? Tune into this episode to learn a few exercises that will help make your horse’s job easier. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E24 · Tue, April 12, 2022
When you are dealing with a challenging horse, it can be difficult to maintain confidence and consistency. In my experience, most of the challenging horses I have trained have all had one thing in common: a default reactive mindset. On this episode, I'm sharing my perspectives on how to maintain consistency and confidence with challenging horses. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E23 · Tue, April 05, 2022
In today’s performance horse industry, we have the privilege of owning and riding some of the most physically talented horses in the world. However, when these horses are young and just getting started, this physical skill is often accompanied by anxiety, reactive tendencies, and mental immaturity. Over the years, I’ve learned that a horse can have all of the tools physically, but this toolkit is useless if I don’t have control over that horse’s mind. In this episode, I’m sharing a few recent experiences with a very reactive colt and my approach to overcoming these reactive tendencies and progressing that horse’s mental training. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E22 · Tue, March 29, 2022
When you live a busy lifestyle, sometimes, it’s hard to take time for yourself. In pursuit of family obligations, career goals, and other ambitions, many of us are hard-pressed to find a few extra minutes in each day. But, if there's one thing I've learned about horsemanship, it's that every improvement with my horses begins with me. Building connections with the horse's mind takes time, and you have to be willing to give yourself that time to slow down, relax, and enjoy the process. On this episode, I'm sharing a few stories about making time for yourself, and how this prioritization can impact your horsemanship journey. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E21 · Tue, March 22, 2022
In the training business, failures are inevitable. There will be seasons of your horsemanship journey that are more challenging than others. Your resiliency during these seasons is what determines whether or not your horse reaches its full potential. In this episode, I’m sharing a few stories about overcoming challenges and staying resilient to reach the next level. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E20 · Tue, March 15, 2022
Have you ever questioned if you had what it takes to make it as a trainer? Have you ever felt guilty for pursuing your passion? If so, you're not alone. On this episode, I'm sharing a few stories about overcoming limiting beliefs as a trainer, and offering some advice on how to keep your confidence up as you build your training career. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E19 · Tue, March 08, 2022
For those of us who are in the ranching world, we don't always have the luxury of 'slowing things down' and giving our horses time to find the right answer. When it's time to get a job done, sometimes, getting the job done is the only thing we can focus on in that moment. So, how can we keep our horse's foundation strong even when we don't have time to slow things down? Tune into this episode to hear my perspectives on training efficiently and reinforcing your horse's foundation when you are short on time. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E18 · Tue, March 01, 2022
Collection is a key component of a horse’s foundational success. However, most breeds of horses are not built to be naturally collected. Tune into this episode as I share my step-by-step process for building collection and confidence in a horse. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E17 · Tue, February 22, 2022
One of our biggest faults as human beings is that we don’t like to fail. That's why when we are introducing a new concept to our horses, we have the tendency to micromanage. When we micromanage their every move, we think we are preventing them from failing; however, we are only getting in the way of their understanding. Tune into this episode as I share my experiences with overcoming my micro-managing tendencies, and how this has transformed by effectiveness as a trainer. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E16 · Tue, February 15, 2022
One of the most common conversations that pops up in the roping pen has to do with how we approach practice. Oftentimes, when someone comes to me for roping advice, they are having trouble catching consistently. Naturally, they ask me to watch their swing, analyze their delivery, or fine-tune another portion of their performance. But, what is happening with their rope is usually not the true source of the problem. Instead, I always look at the horse first. Tune into this episode as we discuss ways to reframe your approach to roping to keep yourself and your horse performing consistently. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E15 · Tue, February 08, 2022
How do you deal with frustration? This was a question submitted by one of our loyal listeners, and it's a topic that has taken me years to find a good answer to. In short, my approach to dealing with frustration comes from a mindset shift. Tune into this episode to learn my process for overcoming frustration and maintaining a positive training atmosphere. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E14 · Tue, February 01, 2022
If you’re a first generation horseman or horsewoman, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. On this episode, I’m joined by an ambitious young trainer named Paula Cooper who transitioned from competitive skiing into roping and rodeo at the age of 16. Although Paula had a later start in her horsemanship journey, this has not stopped her from becoming an extremely competitive roper and trainer, earning a college rodeo scholarship at the University of Wyoming. In this show, we’re talking about all the ways that Paula has built confidence as a horsewoman and how she has established routines that help her prepare for success both inside and outside the arena. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E13 · Tue, January 25, 2022
If you’ve listened to our podcast for very long, you have probably heard me mention how much I love the western industry. I truly believe that I have one of the best jobs in the world, and that is because of the people I get to work with on a daily basis. On this episode, I’m joined by one of my recent private clinic students, Rayne Grant. Rayne is a high school senior competing in barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, breakaway roping, team roping and reined cow horse. As a multi-disciplinary trainer, Rayne knows all about the importance of creating great feel with the horses she rides. From colts to her finished rodeo horses, Rayne is working to find those few missing puzzle pieces that will help her prepare for success as she finishes out her high school rodeo career and moves into the college ranks. Join us as we talk about her training journey and how she implements foundational horsemanship principles into her practice routine for each of her events.
S3 E12 · Tue, January 18, 2022
In this episode, we're throwing it back to the beginning. The audio in this episode is pulled from an introductory lesson in Phil's very first DVD series, Foundation to Finish. Over a decade after these training DVDs were originally recorded, the training philosophies still hold true. This episode is all about understanding the crucial connection between a trainer's ability to engage a horse's thought process and the ability to unlock that animal's full physical potential. Want to access more episodes from Foundation to Finish? Enroll in Phil's online training series at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S3 E11 · Tue, January 11, 2022
After nearly 40 years as a professional horse trainer, I have come to the conclusion that there is one thing that I must have to make a great horse. It has nothing to do with tack or training equipment. And, it has nothing to do with the skills that I have as a horseman. Tune into this episode to find out my #1 must-have for making great horses. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E10 · Tue, January 04, 2022
I’ve said it many times over the years–horses have taught me far more than I will ever teach them. And, this still continues to hold true. As we move into a new year, I have been reflecting on the challenges, successes, and seasons of growth I have experienced. While there have been a fair share of wins, the struggles and failures are always present in the horsemanship journey. But, that’s exactly what failure is–a journey. On this episode, I'm sharing my thoughts about using the power of reflection to align your efforts with your purpose. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E9 · Tue, December 28, 2021
I would guess that many of you have had a horse that did everything great at a walk or trot. Then, when you applied more speed, that horse suddenly began to spook or have other reactive responses that weren’t there before. If this is you, don’t worry. It’s a very common issue. On this episode, I'm sharing a few training methods you can use to help your horse feel comfortable and confident at faster speeds. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E8 · Tue, December 21, 2021
In the horsemanship journey, there are moments when you win and moments when you learn. Even when the competitive outcomes aren't what we had planned, it is imperative that we train ourselves to appreciate the small wins and the ‘not so fun’ things along the way. On this episode, I'm sharing some perspectives on how to reframe your mind to appreciate each opportunity. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E7 · Tue, December 14, 2021
When we set goals, it's easy for these goals to become overwhelming. Why does this happen? I believe it's because we make a commitment to the end result, but we tend to fall short in our commitments to the small, incremental actions we have to take to get to that end goal. On this episode, I'm sharing my perspectives on creating systems that support your goals. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E6 · Tue, December 07, 2021
Watching the National Finals Rodeo brings up a lot of emotions for me―while I have never made a run inside the Thomas & Mack, I still thrive on the excitement, the goosebumps, and the joy of seeing people’s dreams come true. When I watch the rodeo night after night, I think a lot about the journey that each of these athletes had to get to that point in their careers. I think about the steps they have taken over the years to become one of the best in the world; to put themselves in the driver’s seat. On this episode, I'm sharing my perspectives on goal setting, investing in yourself, and putting yourself in the position to achieve your full potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E5 · Tue, November 30, 2021
When you ask your horse to do something, are you met with resistance or release? One of the most common issues I see in today's performance horses has to do with misunderstanding the release point. When you ask your horse to perform a maneuver and their first instinct is to resist or push against you, this is a sign that you need to go back to fundamentals. When you ask your horse to do something, it should not be a negotiation. Tune in to this episode to learn my tips for building a solid foundation and helping your horses get into a mindset where they are willing to listen to the responses you are asking for. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E4 · Tue, November 23, 2021
Everyone has a slightly different way of doing things when it comes to training horses. Yet, many of us experience the same challenges from day to day. You'll always hear me say that knowledge is powerful. However, knowledge is only as powerful as your individual application of this knowledge. Progressing your training program requires you to have an open mind. It requires you to take a step back and analyze the small changes that can make a big difference. On today's episode, I'm breaking down a few recent challenges I've experienced in my training program and how small applications of knowledge have helped me progress my horses through the daily challenges of training. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S3 E3 · Tue, November 16, 2021
In everything we do, we are either creating good habits or bad habits. The horse using the thinking side of its brain is a learned habit. On this episode, I am providing a few actionable things you can do today to stimulate your horse's thought process, getting that animal in a state of mind to be receptive to your training. Read the full show notes and watch a demonstration at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E2 · Tue, November 09, 2021
Jumping outside of your comfort zone is something that I believe we should all prioritize in our horsemanship journey. On this episode, I'm sharing a few stories from my experiences preparing for and competing at the A Bar Ranch Futurity. This futurity required me to compete in a few events that are outside of my horsemanship niche, and the experience taught me a lot about the power of stepping out of your comfort zone. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S3 E1 · Tue, November 02, 2021
Sometimes, we become so laser-focused on our goals that we forget about keeping things fun for ourselves and our horses. This year, I have made a point to diversify my training, and it has been incredibly transformative for myself and my horses. Tune into this episode as I share a few new training methods I've been introducing into my program, and how diversity can help create a more well-rounded horse. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E52 · Tue, October 26, 2021
This episode is inspired by a question from one of our listeners: Phil, I would like to know your opinion on 'frustration?' I believe if a horse or rider is frustrated, it's time to stop, re-group and plan for another day. A trainer friend of mine disagrees and will push the rider or the horse even if one or the other are in a current state of frustration. I think no good can come from pushing once either is in that mindset. Respectfully would like your opinion? Tune in to hear my thoughts on how to deal with frustration, and how to know when it's time to take a step back. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E51 · Tue, October 19, 2021
Do you ever catch yourself in a routine of taking care of everyone and everything… but yourself? Whether it be a lack of time, lack of resources, or other reasons, sometimes, we catch ourselves putting our own needs behind everyone else's. While this selfless nature is admirable, it can also cause us to feel burnt out and frustrated when we aren't achieving the goals we set out for ourselves. On this episode, I'm sharing some stories about how investing in yourself can help you improve your efficiency and progression toward your goals. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S2 E50 · Tue, October 12, 2021
In this episode, I am breaking down the process of overcoming two common issues in the barrel racing industry: Why is my horse stalling out on the back side of a barrel? My horse is losing momentum going into a turn. How do I fix it? Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E49 · Tue, October 05, 2021
Do you ever wake up feeling behind? Do you ever get the feeling like you have more to do than you could ever get done? Feeling like you are never caught up? If so, you are not alone. In the horse training business, time is one of our biggest limitations. On this episode, I am sharing some ways to be more efficient with your time by seeking out resources and mentorship. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E48 · Tue, September 28, 2021
Having goals is important, but having a system in place to support these goals is even more important. Over the years, I've begun to take a more proactive approach to my goal setting. Instead of waiting until January 1 to write out my intentions for the year, I start mapping out my system well in advance. However, mapping out this system is just the beginning. I also have to put in place the commitment and daily actions to implement this system. On this episode, I'm sharing my tips for developing a goal setting system that will help you consistently move closer to where you want to be. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E47 · Tue, September 21, 2021
We are in the midst of an exciting time in the equine industry. Whether you are raising horses, buying prospects to train, or searching for a rodeo-ready athlete, there is no question that the value of the horse has risen dramatically over the past few years. The trends of today’s horse market bring up a few thoughts about the process of increasing the value of your equine assets. Ultimately, this process comes down to: knowing where you are, knowing where you want to be, and having a plan for how to get there. On this episode, I'm breaking down my approach to helping each horse reach the maximum level of value and potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E46 · Tue, September 14, 2021
Every morning when I wake up, my goal is to win the day. To me, winning the day means being in a better position when the day is over than when the day started. It means progressing myself, even if just by a small increment. The idea of winning the day is something that helps me maintain a high level of productivity, and it drives me to work hard each day. When you are working as hard as you can at something, you are going to go through seasons where maintaining that level of work ethic seems overwhelming. On this episode, I'm sharing my thoughts on overwhelm, burnout and how to maintain healthy levels of productivity in your life and business. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E45 · Tue, September 07, 2021
When I first started out as a trainer, the only thing I trained was rope horses. While I still train a lot of horses that go on to excel in various roping disciplines, I've learned that the techniques I use to train roping horses are beneficial for horses in other disciplines as well. On this episode, I'm sharing a few training methods specific to the roping pen that help a horse recognize your feel, timing and balance and understand the responses you are asking for. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E44 · Tue, August 31, 2021
Pulling back is a topic that is important to discuss for your safety and the safety of others. The first step to overcoming the habit of pulling back is to understand why horses do it in the first place. Pulling back is a reactive response, just like running away, bucking or rearing. It is a defense mechanism that a horse engages when it feels restricted or claustrophobic. On this episode, I'm sharing a few methods that can help you overcome these reactive tendencies and safely break the habit of pulling back. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast.
S2 E43 · Tue, August 24, 2021
"My horse works great at slower speeds, but when I ask for a little more, everything falls apart." Have you ever asked for a little more speed from your horse only to feel like you went all the way back to square one? If so, you're not alone. The thing to remember is that there’s a difference between falling back to square one and having a moment where you are back at square one. When the wheels fall off the wagon, it can be easy to feel frustrated and think you are starting over. But, in order to improve, you have to allow your horses to make those mistakes. On this episode, I'm sharing my tips for how to help your horse seamlessly transition to that next level of speed. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E42 · Tue, August 17, 2021
I believe that there are varying degrees of reactive responses. And, I truly don’t think that horses display undesirable responses just to spite us. These reactive responses are simply a horse’s method of communicating that they are scared or insecure with the situation that they are in. Once you reframe your mindset to understand why these horses react in the ways they do, you are one step closer to managing these reactive tendencies. On this episode, I'm sharing a few examples of common reactive responses and how you can utilize triggers to help your horse build confidence and overcome their insecurities. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S2 E41 · Tue, August 10, 2021
In my part of the world, I think most people consider a ‘colt’ to be 2-3 years old. However, in my barn, I would argue that 6 can very well still be considered a colt. I find that a lot of people use age as the sole determinant of where a horse should be in its training career. However, there are so many more factors that should influence our perceptions and expectations of where a horse ‘should’ be by a certain age. When you take into consideration the horse’s pedigree and training history, there can be a wide range of skill levels and abilities at the age of 2-3. However, when you compound that with factors like climate, geography, and the knowledge and skill level of the person(s) riding that horse, our expectations become a lot more fluid. This is why I preach the principle of helping a horse reach their maximum potential. Each horse is going to have different considerations that determine what their ‘best’ is and will be. On this episode, I'm discussing a few considerations to help you manage your expectations of your young horses and how to help them progress to be their best. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E40 · Tue, August 03, 2021
One of the most common body position errors I see is uneven weight distribution. This shows up frequently when a horse is entering a turn. Poor body position will often cause a horse to drop its shoulder to the inside or, alternatively, the shoulder will fall to the outside. In either case, the horse is not in an optimal position to maintain balance and power leaving that turn. In this episode, I am sharing a few tips for how to develop better awareness of your body position and send more consistent signals to your horse. To watch demonstrations of the training methods discussed in this episode, join our Foundation to Finish online training community .
S2 E39 · Tue, July 27, 2021
Two very powerful parts of the horse's body--the shoulders and the hindquarters--are connected by the horse’s ribcage. If the ribcage does not communicate with these other two body parts, it is very difficult to create a fluid forward motion with your horse. On this episode, I’m sharing my methods for establishing better control of your horse’s ribcage and how this can benefit your horse’s body position in a variety of disciplines. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E38 · Tue, July 20, 2021
In my experience as a clinician, insecurities, doubt, and lack of self-confidence are the #1 issues that come up for trainers. There are so many things that go on in our lives that naturally create insecurity. There are drawbacks. There are failures. There are days when you feel challenged beyond what you can handle. I don’t know that you ever truly eliminate insecurity--but you can learn to control it. On this episode, I'm sharing some strategies that have helped me overcome insecurities both in horse training and my personal life. While I believe that insecurities never fully go away, I hope that sharing my experiences will help you show up more confidently in your day-to-day routine. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E37 · Tue, July 13, 2021
A few weeks ago, my family and I took a trip to North Dakota to celebrate the 2021 North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame induction ceremony. I was honored and blessed to be part of this group of inductees, and with this honor came the opportunity to give an acceptance speech. I thought long and hard about what I wanted to include in my speech, and it ended up evolving into a story about a series of small gestures that made me who I am today. In this episode, I'm sharing a few small gestures that have shaped my life, career, and horsemanship journey. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E36 · Tue, July 06, 2021
If you’ve been listening to this podcast for very long, you’ve probably heard me reference the “1% rule” a time or two. This is the philosophy we carry around our training facility to remind us to strive for incremental growth of 1% better every day. Each person is going to have their own definition of what 1% improvement looks like in their training program. On this episode, I am breaking down the 1% rule and describing how this may look for different disciplines. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E55 · Tue, June 29, 2021
“Triggers” are certain occurrences or exercises that dictate which state of mind your horse is in. Triggers can work two different ways -- they can either trigger a reactive response, or they can trigger a horse to engage the “thinking” side of its brain. On this episode, I'm sharing my methods for overcoming negative triggers and reinforcing positive triggers to create an animal that is more aware and responsive. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E34 · Tue, June 22, 2021
Speed is a reactive response. When horses are faced with dangerous situations, their first line of defense is to run away. Every time we ask for our horses to display more speed, we are engaging their instinctive “flight” mechanism. This means that we have even more reactive tendencies to manage. With this in mind, the importance of maintaining control of speed and direction is even more imperative. On this episode, I'm walking through a few of our core fundamental exercises and how these simple exercises stimulate the "thinking" response in your horse's mind. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E33 · Tue, June 15, 2021
Horsemanship is the reflection of excellent communication between horse and rider. Excellent communication is the understanding of how to get more response with less effort. When training, we teach the horse to search for the release. But, we also want to teach them to find this release with the least amount of pressure possible. On this episode, I'm explaining how a few of our key fundamental exercises can be used to elicit better responses from your horses with less pressure and effort. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E32 · Tue, June 08, 2021
Understanding a horse’s self-preservation instincts is a key part of the horsemanship journey. Reactive responses, such as anxiety in the trailer, pawing when tied up, fighting the bridle, or bucking, are each an extension of a horse’s natural survival instincts. When a horse demonstrates these reactive tendencies, the goal is to turn these trigger points into safe spaces. On this episode, I am discussing a few examples of how to reduce your horse’s anxious tendencies by using the release to your advantage. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E31 · Tue, June 01, 2021
Over time, there have been truly great horses in every era. One thing that sets the current era apart from others is access to knowledge. Now, more than ever before, we have easily-accessible resources that help us build our knowledge and understanding of how to develop our horse’s potential. Our job is to apply simply this knowledge. On this episode, I am sharing the top 3 things I believe it takes to make a great horse. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E30 · Tue, May 25, 2021
Many of us are training under some sort of deadline--whether that is a self-imposed deadline or a deadline that is dictated by a certain event, such as a futurity. When we are faced with a deadline, we tend to feel increased pressure to make our horses "great" in a shorter amount of time. When we are so focused on where we want to be, it can be easy to lose sight of the system it takes to produce that desired end result. On this episode, I'm sharing some thoughts about how to maintain a "1% better every day" mindset so that you can help your horse achieve fundamental, long-term greatness. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E29 · Tue, May 18, 2021
Every horse owner, rider, and trainer goes through a similar process on their journey to better horsemanship. Some may be in a season where they are just looking for that one thing to add to their toolbox to maintain the high level that they are at, where others may be looking for a few tools to get their toolkit started. Regardless of where you’re at along this journey, many of us have the same struggle--finding enough time. When we rush through our training, we often fail to provide our horses with that critical release point that helps them learn and understand the responses we are asking for. On this episode, I am sharing some philosophies that help me maintain a realistic perspective and timeline with my training expectations so that I can be an asset to my horse's development process. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S2 E28 · Tue, May 11, 2021
Setting goals is easy. Achieving these goals, on the other hand, can be more challenging. Sometimes, it’s not always the fear of failure that gets in our way--it’s the fear of success. As high achievers, we tend to set such big goals for ourselves that the thought of achieving them can become intimidating, overwhelming, or even unrealistic. When we get overwhelmed by our goals, we can become paralyzed by the thought of what it will take to achieve that success. That’s why we set the goal to get 1% better every day. This is a manageable, realistic goal that, over time, compounds into monumental growth. On this episode, I’m sharing my tips for setting realistic goals and expectations for your training. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S2 E27 · Tue, May 04, 2021
One of the biggest limiting factors I see in performance horses is a lack of collection. And, I believe this starts with a misconception of what collection really is. On this episode, I am debunking some common misunderstandings about collection, discussing how to establish "the signal before the signal," and explaining why collection is essential for performance horses. To learn more about the exercises discussed in this episode, visit philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E26 · Tue, April 27, 2021
Our horses are very forgiving. Given the opportunity to find the right answer, they will find it. The key to allowing your horse to find this answer consistently is to overcome your impatience. This means, giving your horse the chance to do it right before stepping in to help. If you step in too early, you’ll simply be in the way. In this episode, I'm sharing one of the most common impatient tendencies that trainers, including myself, have to overcome daily. For more information about the exercises discussed in this episode, head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E25 · Tue, April 20, 2021
I believe that effort is a learned response. And, I believe this principle holds true for both horses and people. While some people and horses naturally give more effort than others, I believe that the amount of effort put forth always has a direct relationship to the expectations that have been set. It is easy to wake up every morning and talk yourself out of doing the things that are uncomfortable or difficult. Those who are willing to put forth the effort and make themselves uncomfortable are the ones who I admire. And, luckily, I find myself surrounded by more and more of these people everyday. Tune into this episode as I share some recent experiences from our 2021 clinic series, and how these experiences demonstrate the relationship between effort and potential.
S2 E24 · Tue, April 13, 2021
The work that it takes to develop a horse’s physical and mental ability is a continual process. Therefore, a horse is never truly “finished.” A horse may reach a point in its training where it feels confident and adaptable to many different situations. But, there is really no way to know how a horse will react in every scenario. In this episode, I'm sharing some recent conversations I've had about what it takes to make a horse "great." Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E23 · Tue, April 06, 2021
It took me many years to become comfortable with the idea of investing in myself. In fact, for the better part of my early training career, I would invest in everything but myself. The reason that I wasn’t investing in myself wasn’t because I didn’t have the time or money to do so. It was because I didn’t feel like I was worthy of the investment. When I was able to see my own value, that’s when things began to change. I began to realize how these small investments of time and money would eventually compound into experiences that enhanced my value as a trainer. On this episode, I'm sharing some of my experiences around the idea of investing in yourself, and how the knowledge and experiences you gain through these investments can enhance the value of your training career, as well as the value of your equine partners.
S2 E22 · Tue, March 30, 2021
When you come across an anxious horse, it is easy to become frustrated both with yourself and with the horse. The fact of the matter is--some horses are just wired this way. It has nothing to do with you or your training program. But, you and your training program can be the thing that makes the difference for this type of horse. On this episode, I'm sharing some perspectives that can help you develop patience with anxious horses and adapt your training program to help those horses reach their full potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E21 · Tue, March 23, 2021
What if we could be assured that all of our hard work would pay off? What if we knew without a doubt that all the time spent performing thousands of repetitions of those fundamental exercises would finally result in a paycheck? Would our levels of commitment be different? In this episode, I'm talking about developing a "survival mode" mindset toward your horsemanship journey and developing habits of consistency and hopefulness. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com .
S2 E20 · Tue, March 16, 2021
It is easy to become obsessed with our weaknesses. However, when we constantly work on the areas we struggle with, our strengths begin to diminish as well. On this episode, I am discussing some of the most common things trainers struggle with and how to overcome these challenges through patience and balance. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E19 · Tue, March 09, 2021
As a competitor, my confidence comes from knowing that I have my horse prepared. When I know that my horse is where it needs to be, I know that I have put myself in a position to use my horse’s strengths to make my job easier. On this episode, I'm sharing a few tips that will help you recognize ways to optimize your horse's performance for new set ups and continually reinforce a confidence-based training approach. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E18 · Tue, March 02, 2021
Horses are wired with a “flight” instinct, which causes them to react in high-pressure situations. In the performance horse industry, we put our horses in high-pressure situations every time we ask them for more speed. In this episode, I'm covering a few drills that can help you prepare your horse to handle a speed increase smoothly by maintaining a "thinking" state of mind. To learn more about the Foundation to Finish and Foundation & Fundamentals online training programs discussed in this episode, head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E17 · Tue, February 23, 2021
As human beings, we are naturally wired to seek an end point. When we start a project, we want to finish it. The toughest thing to understand about the horse training industry is that there is no real end point. On this episode, I’m talking about how you can push past that “comfortable” spot with your horse so that you can continually develop that animal’s potential. Learn more about the exercises discussed in this episode in our Foundation to Finish training course at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E16 · Tue, February 16, 2021
I feel like I have grown more in the past 5 years than I have in the rest of my years combined. And this is because over the past 5 years, I have made a commitment to focusing on personal development. In this episode, I am sharing some of the realizations that have come about as a result of my personal growth journey, and how these experiences have shaped my perspective on horsemanship. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E15 · Tue, February 09, 2021
Over the years, I’ve gotten a lot more patient about putting the first ride on a horse. Before that first ride, I will spend a significant amount of time on groundwork. I do this because I know that horse has to have a certain amount of trust in me before I attempt to get on its back. By helping my horse be prepared for that first ride, I build that horse’s confidence and reduce any insecurity toward the situation. During the groundwork phase, I want that horse to get to the point where it is able to recognize the release and begins to associate me with that relief. On this episode, I'm going in-depth into my colt starting process and discussing some of the training methods I use to prepare a colt for its first ride.To learn more about the exercises we use in our colt starting program, check out the Foundation and Fundamentals online training program. You can also check our clinic schedule for upcoming Colt Starting Clinics .
S2 E14 · Tue, February 02, 2021
Horsemanship is not about the mechanical manipulation of our horses. We can use our hands, feet, or bits as tools to communicate with our horses, but we cannot rely solely on these tools when we add speed to the equation. Our horses must have a reasonable understanding of our feel, timing, and balance before we can expect to communicate with them effectively at faster speeds. Improving our level of communication with our horses begins with putting ourselves in uncomfortable situations. In this episode, I’m sharing some training methods that will help you break out of your zone of comfort and take the first step in building better communication and understanding with your horse. To learn more about the step-by-step exercises discussed in this episode, check out the Foundation to Finish online training program at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E13 · Tue, January 26, 2021
During the winter months, it gets more difficult to devote adequate time to our horsemanship. The days get shorter, the temperatures get colder, and it’s simply not as easy to find favorable conditions for training. Taking a little time off isn’t a bad thing if we are aware of the correct way to approach training after a break. Time off reveals where our horses are weak in their fundamentals which, in turn, indicates we, as trainers, have been weak in our communication. In this episode, I'm covering some of the most common areas where horses will display weaknesses after a break, and how to overcome these weaknesses by rebuilding trust and communication with your horse. Interested in becoming part of our online training community? Head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses to explore our VIP training courses to get access to the fundamental exercises and monthly coaching opportunities mentioned in this episode.
S1 E12 · Tue, January 19, 2021
As trainers, we have a responsibility to help our horses reach their full potential. And, this requires us to step into a leadership role. Horsemanship is simply leadership. Horses are not born with the natural instinct to be submissive. It is a learned habit. That’s why, as trainers, we have to take on a leadership role with that animal to help engage the thinking side of its brain and perform the maneuvers we are asking for. On this episode, I'm sharing some tips to help you develop your leadership skills as a trainer and become an effective listener. Read the full show notes at: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast
S2 E11 · Tue, January 12, 2021
Horsemanship is a continual learning process. It’s a process that takes a significant amount of time and patience. Luckily, the level of access we have to information allows us to connect with one another, learn, and grow at a faster rate than ever before. However, the downside of this is that we have gotten into a habit of expecting instant gratification. In horse training, the desire for instant gratification can be detrimental to our long-term progress and success as trainers. We often want a “quick fix” to whatever challenge we’re experiencing today, but in this business, a quick fix now usually leads to even bigger challenges later. On this episode, I’m sharing my philosophies for maximizing your time while keeping a patient, yet progressive, mindset as a trainer. Learn more about the training methods discussed in this episode at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S2 E10 · Tue, January 05, 2021
The western industry is built upon the cowboy mentality -- that commitment, grit and never-give-up attitude that so many of us seem to live by. As you begin setting your goals for the coming year, I challenge you to fully embrace the cowboy mentality. Approach each of your goals with that same level of commitment, grit and never-give-up attitude. Be fully committed to bettering yourself. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast
S2 E9 · Tue, December 29, 2020
For many years in my training career, I only focused on training the parts of the horse’s body that I could see. I focused on creating softness in their face, neck, and shoulders, but I never worked on controlling anything behind the saddle horn. Over the years, I have learned that there are five main parts of a horse’s body that are all interconnected: head, neck, shoulders, ribcage, and hindquarters. Each of these body parts work with one another to create proper, fluid movements throughout the horse’s body. If one of these five areas becomes stiff or hard to control, that is usually an indication that I do not have proper control of one or more of the other areas. In this episode, I'm sharing my methods for creating softness in your horse's ribcage and why this exercise is so important for performance events, such as barrel racing and roping. To learn more about the exercises discussed in the episode, enroll in my Foundation to Finish course .
S2 E8 · Tue, December 22, 2020
As trainers, we cannot underestimate the value of a horse’s confidence. Each time I swing my leg over my horse's back, my primary goal is the level of confidence my horse has at the end of that training session. Even if the exercises we do feel boring to me, I have to remind myself that it’s not about me. It’s about my horse. The progression of our training that day isn’t about what I wanted to get done that day. It is about what my horse needed from me that day. On this episode, I’m sharing some training philosophies that will help you continually build your horse’s confidence and progress consistently with each ride. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E7 · Tue, December 15, 2020
In the horse training business, there are ample opportunities throughout the day to get frustrated and throw in the towel. There are times when you’ll be tempted to quit and take an easier path. There are situations where you may stop short of success because you’re afraid of failing. But if you remain faithful in the process, you will never truly fail. On this episode, I’m sharing a few philosophies that have helped me stay faithful in the process and continue pushing forward in my training career. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E6 · Tue, December 08, 2020
How many good things have you missed out on because you didn’t have the courage to move forward? As human beings, our brains are wired to avoid situations where we feel challenged or uncomfortable. If we allow these tendencies to control our actions, we allow fear to paralyze us from moving forward. If we do this, we will never see the blessings and victories that are on the other side of fear. In this episode, I’m sharing a few daily practices to help you develop a mindset of courage so you can push past your fears and step into your full potential. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E5 · Tue, December 01, 2020
One of the most common mental blocks I run into as a trainer is maintaining realistic expectations when I’m working with multiple horses. After almost 40 years as a professional trainer, I’ve gotten to the point where I feel like I have a solid, established training program that should work the same for every horse. But, that is simply an unrealistic expectation. On this episode, I’m sharing some perspectives that have helped me maintain realistic expectations when training multiple horses and the daily steps I take to ensure consistent progress with each horse. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E4 · Tue, November 24, 2020
One common perception that causes many trainers to get stuck has to do with a horse’s age. It is easy to get caught up in our own perceptions of what a horse should or shouldn’t be able to do by a certain age. In reality, a horse’s age has nothing to do with its abilities. A horse’s abilities are nothing more than a reflection of our own knowledge as trainers. In this episode, I’m sharing a few tips on how to take control of your perception of where your horse “should be” and, instead, building a training program that is focused on continually furthering the understanding between horse and rider. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E3 · Tue, November 17, 2020
What do horsemanship and entrepreneurship have in common? In both in ventures, hard work pays off. In this episode, Phil is joined by two of his past clinic students, Emma and Gracie Pearson, who have built a name for themselves both as trainers and young business owners. What began as a means to pay entry fees has now turned into a full-time business venture for these 12 and 15 year old sisters. Tune into this week's episode to hear how these young cowgirls have found a balance between barrel racing, halter braiding, and business ownership. Support their business at facebook.com/mightmaverickmerchandise .
S2 E2 · Tue, November 10, 2020
One of the biggest limiting factors to success is the feeling of needing to prove yourself to others. When you are in the public eye, it is common to feel added pressure to perform well. This extra pressure you put on yourself when you are in the public eye causes self doubt, which often causes you to stray away from your game plan. On this episode, I’m sharing a few philosophies that will help you overcome the pressure to prove yourself to others and feel confident in your preparation. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S2 E1 · Tue, November 03, 2020
Our human instinct for instant gratification often causes us to rush our training. When we rush our training, we often neglect the key fundamentals of horsemanship that keep our horses performing consistently. In this episode, I’m sharing a few perspectives that will help you learn to appreciate each part of the horsemanship journey and improve your consistency as a trainer. To access the training methods discussed in this episode, head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S1 E52 · Tue, October 27, 2020
My dad always used to say, “you can’t see the forest from the trees.” For years, I never understood what he meant by that. As I’ve progressed through my career, it has finally begun to make sense. Sometimes, as human beings, we can’t see the answer because we’re trying too hard. Most of the time, the answer is pretty simple, but if we are too close to the problem, it can be hard to see the obvious solution. An outside perspective can give us the one piece of the puzzle we were missing to help us make a change. In this episode, I’m sharing a few philosophies to help you find that missing piece and improve your consistency as a trainer. To access the training methods discussed in this episode, head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S1 E51 · Tue, October 20, 2020
Horses are naturally programmed with a defense mechanism that kicks in when they sense fear. As trainers, we must constantly work to reprogram our horses’ minds to default to trust and confidence rather than fear. On this episode, I’m covering a few triggers horses commonly react to, and how we can provide comfort for our horses during these stressful situations and activate the "thinking" side of their minds. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast and check out the Foundation & Fundamentals course mentioned in this episode at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S1 E50 · Tue, October 13, 2020
Hauling in a trailer can be a very stressful experience for a horse, especially if the horse has encountered a negative experience in the trailer before. Overcoming the fear of loading and/or hauling in a trailer can be a long process, but it is important to consider why the trailer triggers this response in the first place. In this episode, Phil covers the horse’s natural “fight or flight” instinct and how this plays a role in overcoming anxiety in the trailer. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S1 E49 · Tue, October 06, 2020
Safety has to be your number one priority when training. In this episode, Phil Haugen focuses on safety tips when working with colts and young horses who may have a higher reactive tendency. Learn how the horse’s mind is triggered by reactive responses, how to help your horse develop a “thinking” mindset, and how to be respectful of your horse’s reactions. To learn more about the colt starting fundamentals discussed in this episode, check out Phil's signature Foundation and Fundamentals course at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses .
S1 E48 · Tue, September 29, 2020
Horsemanship is nothing more than how effective your communication is with the horse you are currently on. We tend to put so much emphasis on the horse and what the horse can and can’t do, when in reality, your horse can do only as much as you help them do. Just because you have good communication with one horse doesn’t mean you are granted that level of communication with the next one. For this reason, it is important for you to develop strong muscle memory with your feel, timing and balance. Muscle memory creates consistency, which in turn, creates confidence between you and the horse you are riding. Head over to philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses to learn more about the exercises discussed in this episode.
S1 E47 · Tue, September 22, 2020
My entire training program is based off of failures. Or, rather, the lessons I’ve learned through failures. Every trial and error experience I’ve been through over the years has shaped some part of my training process or my philosophies. Without those challenges, I don’t think I would be half the trainer I am today. Failing is never fun, but it is up to you to determine whether that failure is going to propel you forward or hold you back. I believe that you can never truly “fail” if you learned something through the process. In horsemanship, one of the most common failures is having a horse that is stuck in a reactive state of mind. Horses that are in this mindset often display sudden reactions, such as rearing or running away, which make it very difficult to progress their training. However, when a horse is using the thinking side of its brain, it is trainable. Before getting on, do something to stimulate the thinking side of the horse’s brain. The ultimate goal is to get your horse in the habit of associating you with the thinking side of your brain. There are many methods you can use within your training that can help a horse flip that switch to a thinking state of mind. Training starts the moment you step in the pen with your horse, so focus on earning their trust and attention from this point forward. Get the ground work exercises discussed in this episode in my Foundation to Fundamentals course: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses
S1 E46 · Tue, September 15, 2020
As a horse trainer, one of the most challenging parts of managing a business is managing customer relationships. One of the most common errors trainers run into is mismanaging their customer's expectations. It is imperative that you are truthful and upfront with your customers. It is your job to help your customers have realistic expectations for what they are willing to put into their horse’s training. Sometimes, this means disclosing the weaknesses or admitting that you may not be the best fit for this customer's needs. In this episode, I'm covering a few business philosophies that will help you increase the value of your customer relationships and position yourself as a valuable resource in the horse training industry. Read the full show notes at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/podcast .
S1 E45 · Tue, September 08, 2020
26 years ago, we were living on 10 acres with a 14x80’ trailer house. When we moved in, it was a fixer upper. We added a few pens and barns to make it functional. I fixed up one of our neighbor’s arenas and rented it out to train my horses. I remember one particular day where I told myself I wasn’t good enough. My training was rough that day, and I finally decided that if I was going to do this for a living, I had to get better. I saw an ad for an Advanced Horsemanship Clinic in the Western Horseman magazine, and I told my wife, Bridget, that I wanted to go. The tuition for this clinic was around a $1,000, and at the time, we were living off of what we made day to day. It was a huge expense for me, a huge sacrifice for my wife, and a big commitment on my part. But, I had enough confidence in myself to learn and earn the money back. So, I took a leap of faith and invested in myself. Although the clinician was about 15 years older than me, our journeys were very parallel to one another. At one point during the clinic, I remember asking him when he started doing clinics. He told me that he was about my age. The biggest thing I took away from this clinic was that I was on the right track. As I look back on my training business, that clinic was one of the major turning points in my career. When I was starting out in my training business, it was hard to envision the possibility of having a 6-figure training business. Fast-forward 30 years, and that’s exactly where we are today. I often wondered why it took so long to get to the point where I felt like I was “making it.” But, I finally realized that I just had to put my time in. I had to go through enough life experience so that I would have something valuable to share. Something I’ve realized about self-development is that it never ends. No matter if you have been in business for 30+ years, you still have to work at it every day to make it the best it can be. If I get to a stage where I feel like I’ve reached my maximum potential, that’s when I start going backwards. Every day, I have the opportunity to learn something new. Every day, I have the opportunity to get 1% better. The biggest factor in horsemanship is continuing to make yourself better. As your feel, timing and balance improves, your horse’s performance will continue get better. Over the years, I’ve ran into a few serial clinic-goers—those people who go to numerous clinics a year and gain all the knowledge, but when it comes to the application of that knowledge, they fall short. Now, I’m not discrediting the ambition to gather knowledge. I think it is extremely valuable to soak up as much information as you can. But, you are not going to optimize the value of that knowledge if you don’t apply it. You always hear the saying, “knowledge is power;” but knowledge is only powerful if you apply that knowledge and apply it correctly. Through application, you gain experi
S1 E44 · Tue, September 01, 2020
This year in particular, the rodeo industry has evolved tremendously in the level of competition at each event. With the impact of the pandemic, the number of events on the PRCA schedule has been reduced drastically. So, what happens when there finally is a rodeo to enter? Everyone goes to it. Where there might have been 8 of the top 50 cowboys/cowgirls at a rodeo before, now, there are 30 of the top 50. While there are some competitors who make rodeo their careers, there are a significant number of cowboys/cowgirls that are weekend competitors. They stay in the circuit rodeos with no real intentions of making a run at the National Finals. So, when more of the “career cowboys” show up to these circuit rodeos, what happens? Those who may have dominated the circuit rodeos last year may find themselves struggling to fall into the top 10 at a rodeo this year. If this is you and you are feeling frustrated, I challenge you to shift your perspective. Perspective plays into everything you do. Especially in a year like this, you have to work extra hard to keep a forward-thinking perspective. This year has forced us, as an industry, to level up our performance. What was “good enough” before might not ever be good enough again. While it may be frustrating at times, this opportunity should also be exciting. There is a tremendous opportunity for growth unlike anything we’ve ever experienced in this industry. When you surround yourself with tougher competition, you elevate your own performance. By putting yourself in the position where you are not the best in the room, you expose your weaknesses and discover where you need to focus your time and efforts to improve. Whether you rise up to that higher level of performance depends solely on your level of commitment. Those who are committed to your goals, rather than just interested in them, are the ones that will rise to the occasion. These are the people that see competition as a tool for growth rather than frustration. They are the ones that have a solid perspective. It’s important to remember that life’s a journey, and we are all in the business of personal development. Be mature enough in your mentality to recognize obstacles as challenges, not setbacks. Use your competition as motivation. Adopt the mentality that you will never be “good enough.” This will cause you to wake up every day and say, “What can I do to get a little bit better today?” I promise, if you ask yourself this question daily, your perspective will begin to shift into a growth mindset.
S1 E43 · Tue, August 25, 2020
Last weekend, my daughter Hannah got married. As the father-of-the-bride, I was asked to say a few words after the ceremony. Those who have met me before know that I usually have no trouble coming up with plenty to say, but for this speech, I thought long and hard about the message I wanted to share. I thought back to what I wish I would have known as a 20-something year old. And, here’s what I came up with: Every day, we are blessed with the opportunity to enjoy every sunrise and every sunset. What we do with that time in between is precious. I've learned these 3 things are essential to making every day count: Show up and be productive. Every day, wake up with determination to get better in some way—with your horses, with your career, with your business, with your physical fitness, with your relationships, or with your spirituality. You don’t have to move mountains every day. You just have to get 1% better than you were the day before. Do what is right. Throughout life, you will encounter many situations where you have a choice to make. In some situations, this choice may be more difficult than others. Making the right choices doesn’t necessarily mean making the easiest choices, but those who have the courage to do what is right will reap the benefits of these decisions in the long run. Treat people right. Treat others the way you want to be treated. If at the end of the day all you did was make someone smile, you can consider that day a success. I truly believe that if you treat people right, do what is right, show up, and work hard, the rest of life will take care of itself. Life is a journey, so don’t get too fixated on the destination. Some days, you might feel behind. You might hit snooze and sleep in an extra 30 minutes. Every now and then, that’s okay. You haven’t wasted the whole day. You still have a chance to show up and get something done. They say “enjoy the journey,” but the truth is—progress isn’t always fun. At times, it can be down right frustrating and challenging. Don’t let yourself be shaken by the moments that don’t go just like you had planned. Those are some of the moments that help you grow the most. Take time to enjoy these moments of growth, as well as the little moments of success along the way.
S1 E42 · Tue, August 18, 2020
Training horse is like trying to solve a puzzle with thousands of pieces. Over time, we slowly put the pieces together, but sometimes there is one particular piece we are searching for to complete the picture. Once we find that piece, everything seems to come together. The same is true for our training. One piece that solves a lot of puzzles is the concept of slowing your hands down. Slowing your hands down helps your horse pick up on the feel of your body before you apply pressure on the reins. When you are too quick with your hands, that pressure in your horse’s mouth seemingly comes out of nowhere. This can cause your horse to flip into a reactive state of mind. When your horse anticipates that pressure, it braces on the bit and elevates its head. The concept of slowing your hands down has proven effective in both the barrel racing and roping events. In the barrels, for example, you are going to the first barrel at 25-30mph. When you are traveling at faster speeds, it is human nature for your adrenaline to increase as your speed increases. When you have an adrenaline rush, your movements are more powerful than you think they are. This is why it is so important to move first with your body and then with your hands. When you give your horses that extra split second to figure out the response you are asking for, they build confidence. The act of slowing your hands down is often a matter of recreating muscle memory. Overcoming incorrect muscle memory is a constant battle. Once we’ve become comfortable doing things in an incorrect way, it can take a minimum of 60 days to change that muscle memory. It is foolish to think that a habit can be recreated within 5-10 repetitions—whether it is a horse’s habit or our own. Retraining your own muscle memory to send consistent signals is the first step to helping your horse create better habits. Correct repetitions create good habits.
S1 E41 · Tue, August 11, 2020
Running hard is a reactive response for a horse. This is the same response that is triggered when a horse is afraid of something. Their natural instincts tell them to run away at a high rate of speed. In the barrel racing, we ask our horses for this same reactive response four times during a run—coming through the gate and after turning all three barrels. For this reason, it is essential to have a strong foundation that allows our horses to seamlessly flip from the thinking side of their brains to reacting side. If we don’t have 100% control of our horse’s speed and direction, achieving a high level of performance in timed events can be very difficult. One major indicator that we do not have control of these two elements is elevation in a stop and/or turn. When our horse’s head becomes elevated, its back becomes hollowed out. This causes our horse to lose balance and lateral softness. In the barrel racing, the effects of this can often be seen when a horse “shoulders into a turn.” The three exercises I use to fix this common problem are: Lateral Flexion Lateral Bending One Rein Stops These exercises not only help create balance in the horse’s hindquarters, but they also put our horses in an optimal body position that makes it as easy as possible to complete the task we’re asking. At the end of the day, our horses don’t change unless we change. They don’t get better unless we get better. Progress is an everyday challenge. We must be intentional about our actions every day. Create clarity in your actions, and this will create clarity for your horse on what you are asking of them. It is easier for our horses to clarify the signals we are sending when we are consistent. When they have clarity, they have confidence. Learn the 3 exercises mentioned in this episode with our Foundation to Finish online training program at philhaugenhorsemanship.com/courses.
S1 E40 · Tue, August 04, 2020
Our recent clinic in Hermosa, South Dakota was one for the books. We had an extremely advanced set of horses and trainers at this clinic, and there were many great training philosophies unveiled throughout the weekend. Here is a recap of some of our biggest takeaways from the clinic: Not everything is going to be perfect. Throughout your horsemanship journey, you will undoubtedly encounter a few situations you have not experienced before. When you’re getting into these uncharted waters, don’t expect things to go perfect the first time—things might not even go perfect the tenth time. Allow yourself to learn, and accept that things will not turn out exactly how you planned every time. You do know what you are doing. Everyone has their own unique spin on training. With so many ideas and philosophies out there, it can be easy to fall into comparison with others. Comparison is one of the quickest routes to self-doubt. When someone comes to one my clinics, I do not want them to change their entire program. I simply want them to pick up on one or two things that will give them that 1% change for the better. Sometimes, the biggest takeaway from my clinics is simply confidence that you do know what you are doing, and you are moving in the right direction. Anything worth having takes hard work. A few of the students at this clinic were professional trainers themselves. I’ll be the first to say that making a living training horses is not for the faint of heart. Mentally, physically, and financially--it is a struggle. I can’t even begin to count the amount of times I have been “broke” training horses over the years. I have had to sell horses that I never intended on selling just to stay afloat. I have had to pick up new trades, like shoeing horses, to make a little extra income on the side. If you are having to do something else to keep your business going, so be it. This does not classify you as a failure. One day, your business will be able to support itself. But in the meantime, it is okay to do a few different things to make ends meet. Instead of being hard on yourself, pat yourself on the back. The fact that you are willing to work hard means you are going to make it. Keep showing up. Keep doing what you’ve got to do. You will make it.
S1 E39 · Tue, July 28, 2020
“I just haven’t had time.” How many times have we used this excuse? Maybe we were referring to riding our horses, or maybe we were thinking about the laundry we haven’t folded yet. But, the truth is, we always have the time. We just might not have the necessary level of commitment. Commitment is a funny thing. Our minds are always at war against us. This is because our brains are wired to talk us out of anything that has the potential to cause us pain or discomfort. The first battle we have to win is the battle between our own two ears. We cannot let our minds talk us out of making commitments. Making a commitment can be uncomfortable, especially when we are faced with time constraints. Having time and making time are two completely different concepts. We wake up each morning with the same amount of hours in our day as the day before. Our priorities determine how we spend this time. If you find yourself “not having time” to do something, it might be time to reevaluate your priorities to make sure they are aligning with your goals. When you are choosing which activities you will commit your time to, ask yourself: “Is this supporting the way I want to represent myself and my program?” You might be surprised how clear your priorities become after asking this question. In all phases of my life, commitment has proven to be an essential piece of the success puzzle. I’ve learned that if I don’t make the commitment to progress myself or my horse, neither one of us ever get to where we want to be.
S1 E38 · Tue, July 21, 2020
The mental game of horsemanship is arguably the most difficult part of the journey. Most of you have high goals for yourselves as trainers. You constantly want to get to that next level. It's important to remember that you can’t succeed at a high level unless you learn to fail big. Once you accept that, you will be able to recover from those failures much quicker. It can be easy to fall into a comparison trap with the people who already have the result you are working toward. The success you see is not because they never struggled. It’s because you’re seeing the result of their struggle. They’ve already been through it. Your brain is wired to keep you from doing something you're not comfortable doing. You have to trick you brain into letting you do things that you don’t know the outcome of. Even something as simple as getting out of bed in the morning...it’s a mind game. So, play it. Count backwards from 5…4, 3, 2, 1—and, get out of bed. Committing to small habits of discomfort will propel you to that next level. Throughout your journey, there will be many influential moments, experiences, and people. Some of these will be positive, and some will be negative. You will have setbacks. That’s a guarantee. You may have someone in your life who doesn’t understand what you’re working toward. You might even have someone tell you that you can’t do it. But, there’s one thing I want you to always remember: The only person that has the power to stop you from being successful is yourself. At the end of the day, progress in your horsemanship journey comes down to one question: "Are you willing to commit?" Are you willing to commit to doing the things it takes to get to the next level? It’s easy to do the things it takes to make a great horse, but it’s also easy not to do them. The boring, monotonous tasks aren’t always the fun part of the journey, but they’re by far the most necessary. Consistent action creates results.
S1 E37 · Tue, July 14, 2020
On this week’s episode, I’m covering some of the key training philosophies we focused on during our recent horsemanship clinic series in Denison, Iowa. Working Hard Through Hard Times It is human nature to be hard on ourselves. But, we can overcome this by being thankful for the opportunities that are in front of us. If we can continue to work hard, our time will come. Hard work doesn’t always pay off when we want it to, but it will pay off eventually. If you do the work, you will get the results. It’s that simple. The harder you work at something, the more you will begin to manifest your own luck. Creating Positive Change in Your Performance It’s not always a big change in mechanics that makes a difference in the horse’s performance, but more often, it is a change in the trainer’s philosophy. Slowing Down and Allowing Mistakes to Happen As human beings, we have a tendency to anticipate and micro-manage. We try to save ourselves from an undesirable outcome. But, once we accept the fact that every outcome will not be desirable, we allow ourselves to grow. Investing in Ourselves If I could pay a price to have all of my problems fixed, I would do it. And, I’m sure you would too. Unfortunately, that’s not the way it works. We can pay a price to invest in the knowledge that may help us fix this problem, but we still have to put in the work.
S1 E36 · Wed, July 08, 2020
In this week’s episode, I had a chance to sit down with Kelsie Chace to recap our breakaway clinic in Dickinson, North Dakota. Kelsie is an unbelievable talent in the breakaway roping, but she is an even better human being. If you ever get the chance to learn from Kelsie Chace, I highly recommend you take advantage of that opportunity. Read our full Q&A session on the blog at beyourbesthorsemanship.com.
S1 E35 · Tue, June 30, 2020
As a whole, the roping industry is stronger now than ever before. The opportunities for ropers continue to evolve, and the competition is becoming tougher each day. As the skill level of the ropers increases, the importance of horse power is becoming an even more prominent factor in separating the “good” from the “great.” With so much opportunity ahead of ropers at this point in time, having a well-rounded training program is essential to reaching an elite level of performance. Here are some of the main takeaways we shared with our students at our most recent breakaway school in Dickinson, North Dakota. The Importance of Horse Power In any timed event, you are only as good as your horse is. In an industry with so many talented competitors, there are plenty of people that understand the benefit of using horse power to make their jobs easier. Therefore, you have to leverage your horsepower if you want to reach that top level of performance. When you have confidence that you have the horse power you need to succeed, you back into the box with a completely different demeanor. You carry yourself differently. You think and talk differently. And, your horse can feel that. You are more relaxed. You are more intentional with your signals. Sending consistent signals to your horse is the number one thing that helps build mutual confidence between horse and rider. In turn, this confidence accelerates the level of success you share once you nod your head. Scoring One of the biggest concerns we hear from our students is “I want to get better at scoring.” Many students think that “getting better at scoring” translates to “never breaking a barrier;” however, from a horsemanship perspective, we look at scoring a different way. Scoring, in my book, essentially means leaving when you want to leave, not when your horse wants to leave. Scoring well doesn’t necessarily mean you will never break a barrier or get out late, but if your horse is responsive enough to leave on your command, that is good scoring. With repetitions, your timing of when you release your horse to move forward will improve; but, proper scoring starts with your horse understanding the responses you are asking for. You want to build a solid enough foundation that allows that animal to be able to move off of your hand and leg pressure instantaneously. Position Correctly positioning yourself for a throw is the easiest way to improve your win-loss ratio. Too often, ropers are focused more on “throwing fast” than “throwing correct.” If you focus on putting your horse in the proper position each time you throw in the practice pen, your horse will know exactly where it is supposed to be when you are in competition. Establishing consistent positioning reduces the need for you to throw a “perfect loop” and gives you a much greater chance of accurately placing your rope. Going Back to the Basics The bigge
S1 E34 · Tue, June 23, 2020
As you progress a horse in its training, it is inevitable that you will be challenged. When you are being challenged, how you perceive and react to that challenge is everything. It is hard to be thankful for a challenge when you are right in the middle of it, but that challenge is what is stimulating you to get better. One of the biggest philosophy changes we must make with our horsemanship journey is changing the way we react to challenging situations. At some point, you are most likely going to do something that makes you and/or your horse frustrated. Instead of reacting with anxiety and frustration, you have to go through the thought process of finding the answer to the challenge. You have to rewire your mind to see that challenges are a positive. Challenges are what elevate you to another level. There is always a point where, if you push the limits, you will be faced with a challenge. Without encountering these challenges, it is very hard to get to the next level. You have to get uncomfortable to get better. When you purposely put yourself in a zone of discomfort, you are setting yourself up to reach a higher level. When you are learning and growing, confidence is often a limiting factor. Confidence can only be developed through correct repetitions. The more you repeat an exercise, the more relaxed you will be when you encounter that same challenging exercise. When you try to prevent or correct a challenge before it happens, you are preventing yourself from a learning experience. You have to allow yourself and your horses to make mistakes in order to learn and grow. When we are in a competitive situation, our adrenaline increases. With an adrenaline increase, the speed and strength of our hand and leg pressure naturally increases. This is why it is so important to be mindful of the signals we are sending our horses so that we are sending the same cues to our horse at home as we are on the road. Slow your hands down, and allow your horse to make a mistake. This is the best way for them to learn and develop confidence.
S1 E33 · Tue, June 16, 2020
“How fast should my horse progress?” I get this question a lot from my clients, but in a way, it is a trick question. Your horse progresses at the speed of your own knowledge. When we are working on our horsemanship, the change we should be searching for is not necessarily with our horses—it is within ourselves. As trainers, we have to understand the value of personal development in the overall value of our horses. Our horses are hard-wired with a few skills that make them extremely capable of performing well in multiple disciplines. However, it is up to us as trainers to unlock this potential. Our horses will only perform as well as we help them to. Understanding the value of personal development is such a large piece of the horsemanship journey. As a trainer, you must commit to a continuous pursuit of knowledge. It might not always click at first, but the day that it all comes together, you will be thankful that you never gave up. The work you do today may not show up until days, months or even years later. This is why I am less focused on my progression with a horse in a few days, and I am much more concerned about my results with that horse 6-12 months from now. The continuous application of knowledge is what generates progression through a horse’s learning process.
S1 E32 · Tue, June 09, 2020
Horsemanship is not about the horse—it is about the rider. Building the one-on-one relationship between you and your horse takes time and patience. It requires consistent evaluation of our own understanding and making small adjustments in the way we present ideas to our horses. You must use a smooth, slow, methodical process to transfer your understanding of horsemanship principles to your horse. Simple exercises facilitate a smooth, easy communication process. Pick out one or two maneuvers to focus on and build confidence in. Once you feel confident, you give your horse the opportunity to feel confident. On the days when you are feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself to take it one step at a time and be fully aware of the unique communication style you have with each horse. One of the most difficult things about horsemanship is that no two horses are exactly alike. But, this is the exact thing that makes the horsemanship journey so rewarding. As long as you commit to never stop learning, you will never stop improving.
S1 E31 · Tue, June 02, 2020
Sometimes, you will run into training a horse where it seems like every day is a challenge. In those situations, you have to find a way to gain momentum. Even the smallest “wins” can help you build momentum, and the benchmarks of momentum will be different with every horse. For one horse, simply loping in a controlled circle may be the mark you’re striving for today. Let your horse have those small wins, because that is what builds consistent momentum. Every day presents an opportunity to generate momentum. When you get better at one area of your life, that momentum carries over into everything you do. Pick one thing to focus on, and spend the next 10 days creating a habit of getting a little bit better every day. If you want to create change, you have to create momentum. If you listen to your horses, they will tell you which areas you need to gain some traction on. Most often, you will be able to build momentum by simply slowing things down and reinforcing the habit of your horse using the thinking side of its brain. Remember, smooth is always fast. Slow down your hands, slow down your mind, and gain some momentum with simple exercises that build positive habits. There is a reason why my Level 1, 2 and 3 exercises have a specific order. They are designed to allow you to take it one step at a time and build momentum with the simplest exercises before moving on to the next one. The simpler you can keep things for your horse, the more times you can offer that release. The release is what you teach, and the release is what builds confidence and understanding in your horse. It is important to establish consistency and confidence with one exercise before moving on to the next.
S1 E30 · Tue, May 26, 2020
Jump on the road with Phil Haugen as he shares some thoughts about horses, travel, and training while driving to his next clinic series. Listen closely for special preview of our 2021 clinic schedule!
S1 E29 · Tue, May 19, 2020
When you get together with someone else in the training business and listen to their philosophies, you come away with a refreshed or even a brand new perspective. During our recent clinic with futurity trainer, Ashley Schafer, I learned so much from the way she applies horsemanship principles to her discipline of barrel racing. When you attend a clinic or ride with someone who is more advanced than you are, the goal is not to completely change your training philosophy. The goal is to give you bits and pieces that you can implement into your training program that will help you be more efficient. Everyone has a different way of doing things, and many people have success doing it their own way; but, by having an open mind, you give yourself the opportunity to pick up on one or two small adjustments that may help you get to that next level. More and more people are starting to understand the value of fundamentals in horsemanship, and I believe this is what makes the horse industry increasingly competitive. Although I am not a barrel racer, the fundamentals that I teach in my horsemanship program are what allows trainers to progress their horses’ potential to its peak. The same is true for other timed events, such as roping. Horsemanship is like building a brick house. When you look at a house’s foundation with the pile of bricks beside it, the project can look very overwhelming. Once you start building the house, you do it one brick at a time. After a few hundred bricks, this process inevitably gets boring. When you reach the point of boredom, it can be tempting to rush through the project just for the sake of getting it done. But, if the bricks you place against the house’s foundation are not laid correctly, the entire house is at risk of crumbling the further you progress through the project. The same is true with our horsemanship. If we do not establish those foundational elements with our horse and continue to reinforce them throughout our training process, we will not have any foundation to fall back on. One of the biggest foundational elements of horsemanship that we reinforced at our most recent clinic was the importance of establishing feel, timing, and balance. Your feel is undeniably valuable to a horse. Often times, we become too dependent on the bridle reins. When we keep constant tension on the reins, we never give our horses a chance to make the mistake. We micromanage them, and as a result, the horses never have an opportunity to learn right from wrong. When it comes to horses, we are not dealing with an animal that understands plain English. So, we have to provide them with cues that they understand to help them mentally and physically prepare for the responses we are about to ask for. There are four times in the barrel racing that we ask our horses to be reactive—coming down the alley and accelerating out of each barrel. Any time a horse is running as hard as they can, they a
S1 E28 · Tue, May 12, 2020
One of the biggest mental challenges we run into as trainers is a lack of time. Most of us are faced with tremendously busy schedules, which makes it difficult to devote adequate time to our horses. It seems as though we never get “done”—we just find a place to stop and start again the next day. It took me a long time to get comfortable with this idea. Years ago, I was very hard on myself if there was something on my to do list for the day that didn’t get done. Now, I have become much better at setting realistic expectations for myself and my horses; and, this has come from developing mental maturity as a trainer. My attitude on Monday morning determines the mental state of my horses throughout the rest of the week. When I am rushing around or carrying my frustrations from one horse to the next, it is virtually impossible to make progress. But, if I approach my training by being soft, keeping my hands down, and taking my time, my horses become relaxed and more receptive to the responses I am asking for. The first thing I do when I step on a horse is to flex them laterally, yield their hindquarters, and get them comfortable with their one rein stops. I do this for two reasons: 1) I want to immediately stimulate the thinking side of that horse’s brain, and 2) I want them to be dialed in and listening to my feel so that I can control their speed and direction. The more mentally, emotionally and spiritually mature I become, the more that maturity carries over to my horse. The better place I am in, the better place my horse is in. My horse looks to me for confidence and security. It’s not my horse’s job to make my day good; but, it is my job to help my horse have a good day. Every day I spend with my horse is a reinforcement of the relationship we have, and I am in total control of whether that relationship is a positive or negative one. If you are struggling to have numerous “good days” in a row in your training, I challenge you to take a step back and be honest with yourself. Is it truly a problem with your horse, or is it a problem with your maturity toward the current situation with your horse? It took me a long time to take responsibility for my horse’s attitude, but this shift in your philosophy may just be the thing that accelerates your training program. I know that it sure made a difference in mine.
S1 E27 · Tue, May 05, 2020
We often underestimate how much our horses rely on our feel, timing, and balance. I’ve touched on this topic in previous episodes, but this week, I want to dive into some of the reasons why it is so important to understand how a horse’s anatomy impacts its responses. In terms of vision, our horses’ eyes work a little bit differently than ours do. Horses are blessed with some skills in their vision that we don’t have, such as better nighttime vision. However, there are some key differences between human vision and equine vision that pose challenges when it comes to training. Horses do not see things the same way that we do. This is why it is absolutely essential for us to develop consistent feel, timing, and balance so that our horses can rely on our cues rather than their own sight. We, as humans, have binocular vision—meaning, both eyes work together to form images in our brains. Horses, on the other hand, primarily have monocular vision—meaning, each eye works independently of the other. A horse can see roughly 350-degrees around its body, but there are approximately 5 degrees directly in front of and behind a horse that are blind spots. This is because the placement of horses’ eyes are designed to support three main abilities: 1) spotting predators 2) looking for footing 3) identifying food. A horse’s line of vision acts somewhat like a bifocal lens. The bottom part of horses’ eyes are used primarily for identifying things that are close to them, such as their footing and food. The top part of horses’ eyes, on the other hand, are used to identify objects further away, such as movement from a person or another animal. When horses see the world from a different perspective than we do, they will occasionally perceive a situation to be more dangerous than it really is. This fear is driven by the blind spots in their vision. Any time an object enters the blind spots in a horse’s field of vision, there is a moment in time when the horse is unsure of where that object is. This uncertainty almost always causes a reactive response, especially in younger horses. So, why are some horses scared of things that other horses are not? It is because they have become comfortable with situations that other horses have not. This level of comfort comes from a strong foundation of trust. If you have ever tried to get a horse to cross water for the first time, you know how “scary” of a situation it can be for a horse. This is because the horse likely can’t see the water, but it can sense it in other ways by sound or smell. The only way that horse builds enough confidence to cross the water is by giving into our encouragement. But, the key is, our horse has to trust us enough to take that step.
S1 E26 · Tue, April 28, 2020
I think we often underestimate how much our horses rely on our feel, timing, and balance. Horses are prey animals, meaning their anatomy is structured to allow them to see what is behind them or what is chasing them. This is why a horse, by nature, tends to have reactive responses, unless trained otherwise. With they way a horse’s eyes are positioned on its head, I’m not convinced that horses can see a barrel pattern or a steer very well. When we’re making a run, that horse relies heavily on our cues to know when to make a move. This is why it is so important to spend the time allowing your horse to understand the way you ask for a response. It takes hundreds—maybe, thousands—of repetitions before a horse becomes confident in your feel, timing, and balance. Although it will take time, doing 20-25 repetitions of a pressure/release system per day is one of the best things you can do for your horse’s foundation. Each time you release, you are starting to build trust and confidence. Although it might not seem like a big deal, those small steps are some of the best lessons that horse will learn throughout its training career. Even if you anticipate having to pick up the reins and create pressure again right after you release, you still have to create that release for your horse. When you always have pressure on the reins, you can somewhat control your horse’s movements, but you never allow that horse to recognize when it has performed the maneuver you are asking for. When the horse stops moving its feet and gives to the pressure of the reins, that is when you provide the release. When you release the reins, you have to make a conscious effort to relax your body as well. As trainers, it is our job to help our horse develop its full potential. Sometimes, this means slowing things down rather than speeding them up. It is easy to do the things that make a great horse, but it is also easy not to do the things that make a great horse. If your horse isn’t having fun and isn’t confident, there is a pretty good chance you are going to have a hard time having fun or building any confidence, either.
S1 E25 · Tue, April 21, 2020
When I meet someone who has a big smile, I never forget that person’s name. Why? Because, that person made a good first impression. The reason we tend to remember our first impressions of people so well is because the things we remember are attached to emotions. The same is true for our horses. Our horses learn through emotion, and those emotions can be positive or negative. Every time we interact with our horses, we are creating positive or negative experiences that shape our horses’ impressions of us and the responses we are asking for. A common mistake I see many trainers make is pushing their horses too far. When things are going well, it is tempting to ask for a little more from your horse. But, often times, that extra push leads to more problems. When you are tempted to ask for more, you have to remind yourself to let your horse win. You have to create opportunities for that horse to find small victories during a training session. You have to help your horse find the release point. For example, let’s take a look at a horse that is anxious when it is tied up. Most generally, our horses are tied up before we work them (i.e. while we saddle). Over time, our horses will learn to anticipate the work that follows getting saddled, and they will become anxious and jittery when tied up. To change the horse’s impression of being tied up, we must change our point of release. Next time, try working the horse first—on the ground or in the round pen—then, tie it up at the trailer. When you perform the steps in this order repeatedly, standing tied at the trailer becomes their new release. The same is true for a horse that doesn’t load well. If you have a horse that won’t load or backs out of the trailer quickly when loading, do some ground work away from the trailer. Then, try loading again. Eventually, the horse will learn that the trailer is its’ safe space. Repetition is key to changing your horse’s impression of certain situations. When you are working through challenges with your horse, remember to be patient and ask for improvement in small increments. 1% better every day.
S1 E24 · Tue, April 14, 2020
This week, I worked with two small groups of trainers—barrel racers and team ropers—on some tune ups with their performance horses. Though they were working in completely different disciplines of horsemanship, the trainers were running into very similar issues. Both groups of trainers were struggling to effectively communicate the release to their horses. I see many trainers who are taught to communicate with their horses using pressure and/or contact. To a certain extent, this method is correct. Pressure or contact is used to stimulate the thinking side of a horse’s brain; however, a horse does not learn what you are asking them to do based solely off of pressure. A horse learns from the release. I once was told “the release is what you teach,” and this mentality changed my training program forever. Over the years, I’ve learned that providing that release is the only way to communicate to my horse that it have done something right. Constant pressure is a cue for your horse to get tense and anxious. Release builds confidence. As a horse builds confidence, it becomes more relaxed. When your horse becomes relaxed, it slips into a state of flow. This state of flow is where the horse achieves its optimal performance level. As a trainer, the goal is to build your horse’s confidence in your feel. They need to learn what it feels like when you ask for a response, as well as what it feels like when they have done something correctly and receive a release. Once a horse gets comfortable with your feel, it will learn to be more relaxed and receptive to what you are asking it to do. It is important to remember that every horse is going to learn a little differently, and as a trainer, you have to adjust accordingly. I have 10 horses in training this month, and although my program is consistent for each horse, I have to be mentally flexible enough to make small adjustments and apply my techniques differently based on each horse’s unique learning style. Regardless of what discipline you are training for, the release/reward system is one of the most effective communication tools you have with your horse. Let the horse understand that a release will follow pressure when they provide they correct response. Once the horse grasps this concept, you will be amazed at how quickly their performance level accelerates.
S1 E23 · Tue, April 07, 2020
Indefinite. This word has really resonated with me lately. The word indefinite leaves a huge unknown at the end of every sentence, and I know it has really made me take a step back and think about the way I do things everyday. Although my business is blessed to have a steady inventory of horses in training, my family has not been exempt from the financial, mental, and emotional struggle that comes with the changes that are taking place in the world right now. Although portions of our lives have slowed down significantly, that doesn’t mean our progress has to stop. From a horsemanship perspective, now is the time to get to work. Now is the time to get prepared. Now is the time to show up for yourself everyday, no matter what. We have been given a unique window of opportunity to progress ourselves and our horses, even in the midst of chaos. I know some of you may be thinking, “I’ve got much bigger things to worry about right now,” and I understand that. I do, too. But, idle time is the devil’s workshop. In this time, if we sit still and stay stagnant for too long, we can throw ourselves into a pitfall of failure and depression. By no means is this an easy time, but this is not an impossible time, either. There is a way to get through this, and we are fully capable of figuring out what that way is. If we keep moving and get our minds thinking in the right direction, the payoff a few months or years from now will, without a doubt, be well worth our struggle. This is a time to be proactive, not reactive. We have to focus on the things that we can control and make those things the best they can possibly be. Once we come out on the other side of this, I am confident that there will be tons of opportunities for the people that continue to put one foot in front of the other and use this time to move forward. Right now, you have an opportunity to separate yourself from the pack later on down the road. The actions you take today are the things that will pay off six months from now. Get away from that mindset of “there is no sense doing anything today because we don’t know what tomorrow brings.” Tomorrow brings the opportunities that you create for yourself today. Perspective is the most important thing you can hang onto during this time. Reevaluate your priorities and analyze what you can do to make yourself better right now. Eventually, there is going to be a new normal. There is no doubt about that. So, use this time to get ready for that new normal. Look for opportunities. Always, look for opportunities. Your mind is in a different state when you’re searching for opportunities rather than dwelling on the things that are happening around you. I talk a lot about the thinking vs. reacting side of a horse’s brain—well, now is the time for us to use the thinking side of our brains. Now more than ever, it is time for you to be your best.
S1 E22 · Tue, March 31, 2020
Clinic Recap: Advanced Horsemanship Clinic in Sebeka, MN Dates: March 13-15, 2020 Featured Trainer: Carrie Arntson
S1 E21 · Tue, March 24, 2020
This period of time that we’re going through right now is tough. Life has caught us taking things for granted, going through the motions, and assuming that things are going to be just like they were yesterday. Now, we are thinking about things we have never had to think about before. We are considering realities that we have never had to face before. We are learning to live without conveniences that we never dreamed would be taken away from us. But, I have a hard time believing that this isn’t the wake up call that we all desperately needed. Prior to this pandemic, did we ever stop to think what life would be like without these things? Did we ever express gratitude for the simple fact that a rodeo was being held? Or, were we too busy complaining about the stock, complaining about the ground, or wishing our run would have been better? To the kids that unknowingly attended their last high school or college rodeo, my heart hurts for you. To the kids who will miss out on the memories of prom and graduation, I’m so sorry. To the couples who had to postpone their weddings, it’s not fair. Although it might not seem like it now, there is a lot of good that will come from this struggle. There will be unity. There will be appreciation. There will be growth. And, there will be a renewed perspective that we have all needed for quite some time. Embrace the struggle, for it will only make you stronger.
S1 E20 · Tue, March 17, 2020
One of the toughest situations I have encountered as a trainer is switching back and forth from riding “finished horses” to riding colts. It is easy to develop the mindset that when we have a “finished horse,” we are finished training. We think that we have a programmed computer that doesn’t need to be reminded of how to perform correctly. But, that’s just not the case. The skills that it took to develop your horse’s potential are the same skills it takes to keep a horse great. The things that keep our horses fundamentally solid are easy to do, but they are also easy not to do. It is easy to get to a point where we ignore simple fundamental principles. When you ignore them long enough, things will eventually start to fall apart—especially, when adding speed. Speed does not build foundation—it tests it. When we ride finished horses, we compete on them most of the time. Over time, this repeated demand of high performance can cause a horse’s foundation to break. If you get to the point where every time you step in your horse’s pen, you are asking for 100% effort, your horse will begin to associate you with the anxiety of anticipating a high level of performance.There is no way for a horse to give its all every time and stay buttery soft without occasional reinforcement of foundational skills. It doesn’t matter if your horse is 2 or 22, each time you step on the horse, you are working on developing trust and confidence. The more your horse trusts you, the more receptive they will be to your style of communication. Horsemanship is just presenting things in a way that a horse can understand. You have two choices when selecting your method of communication: You can have them respond through 1) fear and force or 2) patience and understanding. When we train with the fear/force method, we are exchanging short-term gain for long-term pain. When we train with the patience/understanding method, we are exchanging our time for long-term understanding and consistent performance. Your goal as a trainer should always be to help your horse find the release point. A horse’s ability to transition in speed and transition in direction is what determines their success. Practicing fundamentals at different speeds — walk, trot, canter — is what will help your horse develop the ability to make these transitions smoothly and consistently. When your horse is running as hard as it can, it has to be able to recognize the feel and change in your body position that cues them to adjust their speed and make a move. We want them to rely on our body position rather than the cues from our bridle reins to make these transitions. Our reins should be used to guide the horse in a certain direction, not to slow them down. At the end of the day, there is something inside of a horse that we can’t measure. We can develop their understanding of the tasks we are asking for, but a horse’s potential is also largely determined by their natural grit and determination
S1 E20 · Tue, March 17, 2020
One of the toughest situations I have encountered as a trainer is switching back and forth from riding “finished horses” to riding colts. It is easy to develop the mindset that when we have a “finished horse,” we are finished training. We think that we have a programmed computer that doesn’t need to be reminded of how to perform correctly. But, that’s just not the case. The skills that it took to develop your horse’s potential are the same skills it takes to keep a horse great. The things that keep our horses fundamentally solid are easy to do, but they are also easy not to do. It is easy to get to a point where we ignore simple fundamental principles. When you ignore them long enough, things will eventually start to fall apart—especially, when adding speed. Speed does not build foundation—it tests it. When we ride finished horses, we compete on them most of the time. Over time, this repeated demand of high performance can cause a horse’s foundation to break. If you get to the point where every time you step in your horse’s pen, you are asking for 100% effort, your horse will begin to associate you with the anxiety of anticipating a high level of performance.There is no way for a horse to give its all every time and stay buttery soft without occasional reinforcement of foundational skills. It doesn’t matter if your horse is 2 or 22, each time you step on the horse, you are working on developing trust and confidence. The more your horse trusts you, the more receptive they will be to your style of communication. Horsemanship is just presenting things in a way that a horse can understand. You have two choices when selecting your method of communication: You can have them respond through 1) fear and force or 2) patience and understanding. When we train with the fear/force method, we are exchanging short-term gain for long-term pain. When we train with the patience/understanding method, we are exchanging our time for long-term understanding and consistent performance. Your goal as a trainer should always be to help your horse find the release point. A horse’s ability to transition in speed and transition in direction is what determines their success. Practicing fundamentals at different speeds — walk, trot, canter — is what will help your horse develop the ability to make these transitions smoothly and consistently. When your horse is running as hard as it can, it has to be able to recognize the feel and change in your body position that cues them to adjust their speed and make a move. We want them to rely on our body position rather than the cues from our bridle reins to make these transitions. Our reins should be used to guide the horse in a certain direction, not to slow them down. At the end of the day, there is something inside of a horse that we can’t measure. We can develop their understanding of the tasks we are asking for, but a horse’s potential is also largely determined by their natural grit and determination
S1 E19 · Tue, March 10, 2020
When someone comes to my facility to pick up their horse after it has been training, I see a common fear: “will I screw it up?” While your horse is not returned to you as a programmed computer, it is also not going to flip a switch and go right back to where you started. The purpose of having a horse in a training program that develops fundamentals is to get that horse in the habit of using the thinking side of it’s brain. When a horse switches riders, it goes through a transition period where it has to learn and recognize your unique style of communication. If the horse has a solid foundation, eventually, it will find the right answer. Foundation is extremely important, especially in performance events that require speed. Speed is a reactive characteristic. When you ask a horse for more speed, you are essentially asking for a reactive response. Horses with a strong foundation will have enough confidence in themselves to switch back and forth from the thinking/reacting sides of their brain to perform correctly. As with a horse’s foundation, your foundation as a trainer is equally important. The biggest challenge in your training career comes from your own thought process. You have to have strong foundational philosophies before you can make a positive change in your training program. One of the biggest mindset shifts you must make is changing the way you look at failure. Everyone will go through a phase where they are afraid to mess something up. Once you reach a pinnacle in your performance, you might be afraid to continue pushing boundaries in fear of going backwards or falling off the cliff. But, if you want to continue to perform at that high level, you can’t be afraid to make mistakes. You cannot start each day with the fear of messing up. The fear of failure has a paralyzing effect on us. If you dwell on it long enough, you will miss the opportunities that are right in front of you. Sometimes, you have to flip the switch in your brain so that you can get out of your own way. It’s like taking a test in school. You are better off to take a guess and write something down—even if you’re not sure it’s the right answer—than to leave the question blank. If you leave it blank and do nothing, you guarantee that it will be counted wrong. But, if you take your best guess, you give yourself the opportunity to figure out what the right answer is and learn from it. A wrong answer is better than no answer because you have successfully eliminated one way that doesn’t work. You have to approach training with the mindset that challenges are learning opportunities, not failures. And, trust me, there will be some intense learning moments along the way. But, you are better off to try and fail than to not try at all. Getting the wrong answer is not a failure, it’s an accomplishment. Don’t let the fear of messing up keep you from moving forward. Any bad habit you create is fixable. Always keep mo
S1 E18 · Tue, March 03, 2020
Horse training is an unpredictable business. There is no telling how many horses you will have in training in a given month. There is no guarantee or stability in your monthly income. But, over the past 30+ years, my wife and I have managed to raise a family one ride at a time. At some point, you decide what is important to you and follow it with everything you’ve got. There are easier roads to go down to get through this life. But if you are up for a bit of a challenge, have the courage to pursue your passions. You can approach your dreams with faith or fear. Starve your fears and feed your faith. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start, but you have to have the courage to start in order to grow. Have faith that you have the resources you need to succeed. And if you don’t already have the tools, believe that you are capable of learning and finding the answers. Believe in yourself, and always believe that good things are going to happen. Training horses is a lot like life, and I believe that God put horses on this earth to help me learn more about myself. There is no perfect manual to go by. No two horses will ever be exactly alike as no two people are exactly alike. If your program works really well with one horse and not so well with another horse, don’t give up on yourself. You are only as capable as your mind leads you to believe. Never let the fear of failure steal your fire.
S1 E17 · Tue, February 25, 2020
Between high-performing genetics and the advancement of horsemanship knowledge, the horse industry has come a long way over the past five decades. Despite the undeniable growth, there are certain foundational principles that have not changed. One such principle is the learning experience that a trainer must go through in order to help their horse(s) reach their full potential. One thing to remember about the horsemanship journey is this: Bad experiences are learning experiences. Those times when you are being challenged and tested are the times when you have a chance to grow. When you look at each experience from a growth perspective, all experiences become good experiences when you have the opportunity to learn something. One of the biggest changes in the horse industry is how accessible horsemanship knowledge has become. These days, there are tons of free resources, online videos, and outstanding clinics, seminars, and expos that are available to spread the wealth of knowledge. At my clinics, I always say that your biggest goal at a clinic should be to leave with a new perspective. Sometimes, the slightest change in your mindset toward a particular situation can be the missing piece that bridges the gap between struggle and success. You may train 10 horses, and 9 out of 10 times, your method of communication with your horse works—but that tenth time, your horse may not respond the way the others did. In situations like this, it is easy to become frustrated. If you want to continue moving the needle forward in your training career, you have two choices: 1) be patient and continue to ask for the response, or 2) change your communication slightly to help your horse understand better. No two horses are exactly alike. They each have different personalities, tendencies, and abilities. Therefore, each horse is going to require a slightly different pattern of communication from you. Until you open yourself up to new points of view and new ways of solving a problem, you will likely struggle to improve your horse’s performance and understanding. Once you embrace this mindset, your training program will escalate rapidly. Anytime you are working with a horse, remember to be less concerned with perfection and more concerned with your application and execution of a concept. Progress will come with consistent, correct repetitions.
S1 E16 · Tue, February 18, 2020
If you spend long enough in the horse training business, you will likely encounter some situations throughout your career that put you at risk. Any time a horse develops a severe reactive response—such as flipping over backwards or bucking excessively—your safety, as well as your horse’s safety, is compromised. An overreactive horse is not untrainable—training it properly will just take more time and patience. Overreactive horses need some confidence and consistency-building activities to focus on. Those horses need to learn trust and respect. A horse’s overreactive nature wasn’t made overnight, and the problem won’t be fixed overnight either. The first step is to attempt to understand why the overreactive horse behaves the way it does. What mannerisms does it exhibit? What situation did the horse come from? Why is it behaving this way? As crazy as it sounds, your horse has been conditioned to rear up. When a horse is put in a high-pressure situation, anxiety builds, resulting in an extreme reactive response. Horses learn by release, and in an overreactive horse, the release the horse is looking for happens when you, the rider, comes off of its back. Instead of finding a release on its own, you want to retrain your horse’s brain to look for the release when you provide it. As a rider who has been on a horse’s back during one of these extreme reactions, it is incredibly difficult to feel confident and secure about what is going to happen when you get on that horse. That, in turn, creates a lot of anxiety in us. When you have a frustrated horse, and then you add a frustrated rider into the equation, there is no good that will result from that scenario. If we aren’t relaxed, our horses won’t relax. One of the two bodies must constantly be using the thinking side of their brain. What you are training on any horse—especially overreactive ones—is their minds. You are training the horse to think and look for responses. This is achieved through a simple “ask, release, reward” routine. When a horse seems like it has “fallen apart” — meaning, with speed, it is not working very good anymore — what has happened is that they have gotten weak in one of their fundamentals. If you can identify the fundamental element that need work, you can almost always remedy the problem by solidifying that horse’s broken foundation. Often times, we can make more progress as a rider from the ground. The “boring stuff” you see people doing — such as making your horse soft, yielding the hindquarters, etc. — is the stuff that builds trust and respect. Building a foundation takes time. When you go to a clinic or training, it’s not all about what happens in those two days. It’s about how you use those two days to change your thinking process. When I host a clinic, I am much more concerned with your results 4 weeks, 4 months, 4 years from now as opposed to 4 hours from now. Knowledge is power. But, knowledge is only powerful
S1 E15 · Tue, February 11, 2020
As human beings, we all have our insecurities. In the horsemanship world, insecurities happen when we get in a streak of bad runs, when we have a bad practice before the rodeo, or when we haven’t developed the confidence we need with a certain horse. Insecurity not only affects us in every day life, but it adversely affects our horsemanship as well. When we aren’t able to devote time to our personal horses and sharpening our competitive skills, it affects our mindset and performance. Whether it be our careers or family obligations that get in the way of our normal practice routine, we tend to develop insecurities that let us fall back into bad habits. Anticipating and micro-managing your horse’s every move is an example of a bad habit caused by insecurity. Your horse is like a chamelion. It will transform based on what you ask it to do. Horses don’t learn from pressure. They learn from release. So, you have to let them have the release. Even if you know the next step may be followed by a mistake, you have to let it happen. Then, you can correct it. The fastest way to confuse your horse is to correct a problem before it happens. If you anticipate a problem and cue your horse accordingly, your horse won’t know what they are supposed to be doing. Don’t be afraid to trust your horse. It is okay to allow them to make a mistake. Over time, your horse will learn your style of communication and will understand how to avoid making mistakes. Most of the time, mistakes with our horses are caused by our own mistakes as trainers. If you want to sharpen your own skills (and, in turn, your horse’s performance), you have to be willing to get uncomfortable. Making these small changes in your performance is not going to be part of your normal routine. It is not going to feel “safe” or comfortable. But, until you let yourself get uncomfortable, the correct actions are never going to feel comfortable. Maybe, getting out of your comfort zone means dropping your hands a little bit. Maybe, it means relaxing your legs. Or, maybe, it means being more aggressive. Whatever it is, you must be willing to analyze your own performance and recognize what uncomfortable steps you might have to take to get to that next level. In doing this, you might be opening yourself up to frustration and embarrassment—but, that is okay. Anytime you feel like you have failed, embrace that, because it means you’re growing.
S1 E14 · Tue, February 04, 2020
In our previous episodes, we have talked about activating the thinking side of your horse’s brain. But, today, we are going to talk about activating the thinking side of your brain. There was a time in my career when someone would make a suggestion, and I would take offense to it. This is when I was a young trainer, and to be honest, I was a little insecure about my abilities. I titled myself as a “horse trainer,” and I didn’t want to admit that I didn’t know everything. But, when I finally accepted the fact that I have more to learn, I set myself up to make some essential changes to myself as a horseman. From that point forward, the results I achieved with my horses were always a direct result of the changes I made in myself. To change your results, you have to change your standards. Everything you do is a result of your standards. How you treat people, how you behave, how you look, how you shape your body, how you shape your mind, how you take care of your horses… your standards are what yields the results you are getting. Your daily rituals are a product of your standards. I have a favorite quote from Tony Robbins that reads: “Willpower won’t last. Rituals will.” Human beings are too emotional to rely on willpower. It’s just our nature. But, when we form a new mindset, new commitments, and new habits, our progress will unfold by leaps and bounds. If you’re listening to today’s episode, you are already taking a step toward bettering yourself as a horseman. And there’s a chance that if you’re listening, you might feel like you have hit a plateau in your performance or your training career. I am going to challenge to you to take a very realistic audit of your own program. I hear so many people fall back on the excuse “well, I’m no trainer, but…” Every time you step up on a horse, you are either creating or reinforcing a habit. I get the question of “which horse should I bring” a lot before my clinics. When I went to one of my very first clinics, I wanted to bring a green horse and start him at that clinic. I was surprised when the clinician told me to bring my most advanced horse to the clinic instead of my most inexperienced horse. This surprised me because, at the time, I was under the impression that it was my horse that needed the fixing, not myself. You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again—my horses have taught me so much more than I will ever teach them. Always remember that the horse you bring to a clinic is just a vehicle for you to learn how to communicate. The more advanced horse you bring, the more you will get out of it. You’re not done yet. You’ve got a lot of things to learn and things to get better at. Make the commitment today to set a new standard for yourself.
S1 E13 · Tue, January 28, 2020
“My horse is good enough.” I can’t tell you how many times I have heard this phrase over the years as a competitor, clinician, and trainer. When we adopt this mindset of being “good enough,” we are limiting our potential to become great. We need to eliminate the term “good enough” from our horsemanship vocabulary. Instead, ask yourself, “is my horse good, or is my horse great?” When you strive to get your horse to that “great” level, you automatically elevate yourself as a trainer. We have passed the time when your own athletic ability can make up for a lack of horse power. Everyone’s skill level has increased so dramatically over the years that horse power is now the differentiating factor between good and great competitors. The people who understand how important it is to simultaneously develop their own abilities as well as their horse’s are the ones who achieve truly great things in their careers.
S1 E12 · Tue, January 21, 2020
When I was younger, I came from a “horse” family, but not necessarily a “rodeo” family. So, when I began practicing roping events, I was always trying to make up for lost time. In the practice pen, there was never really much discussion of horsemanship, but we were always focusing on getting more repetitions with my roping. Over the years, I began to realize that when I was in position, my catch percentage was much higher. That’s when I started to shift my mindset from roping for myself to roping for my horse. Being a better horsemen starts with understanding where you’re at right now—with your skill level and your horse’s understanding. Then, you must identify where you want to get to and come up with a plan for how to get there. For example, if you want to have a horse that is great at scoring in the roping events, you have to have a program that helps to develop that. In roping events, we tend to put our horses in a situation that naturally creates some anxiety when we back into the corner. We apply pressure in the mouth, expecting them to stand still, yet going from zero to thirty in a matter of seconds. This pressure is not necessarily what causes a lot of horses to “blow up” in the corner over time. Rather, it is our inconsistency with reinforcing correct fundamentals that causes the blow up. If you don’t correct your horse’s mistake at the time the mistake occurs, you are reinforcing a bad habit. A mistake essentially transforms into a repetition that continues to create an undesirable outcome. When you’re establishing and creating habits, the foundation and fundamentals of slow work—or putting your hand down and letting your horse get into position—is what makes all the difference. Many people fall to the assumption that once their horse is “good,” the training stops there. But, this simply isn’t true. The better you get, the more steps it takes to get even better. You can’t do too many correct repetitions. You can’t have your horse “too good.” The number one thing that separates a good roper from a great roper is a great horse. Ask yourself—are you doing something every day to help your horse get better? If you’re not getting better, you’re going backwards. Sometimes, this requires going back to some of the most basic fundamentals and reinforcing correct habits.
S1 E11 · Tue, January 14, 2020
Every time you repeat something, you are at the beginning stage of establishing a habit. This is true whether you are an advanced rider or just starting out. Each time you get on your horse, you are presented with the opportunity to identify your good habits and bad habits. Your bad habits are your weaknesses. A weakness is something that has been developed over time, whether we taught it that way or whether we have allowed the same mistake to happen repeatedly. Although many of us understand the importance of repetitions, I think we tend to underestimate the power that lies behind correct repetitions. Correct repetitions are an essential part of building a foundation for long-term success. Once we have achieved an end goal with our horses, we have a tendency to quit doing the things that got us there. At the end of the day, your horse is not a programmed computer. Even horses that perform at a very high level a high percentage of the time require repetition of fundamentals to continually improve their performance. When faced with a goal, we often think of time as our enemy. But when it comes to repetition, time is our ally. One of our biggest downfalls in the performance horse industry is our obsession with short term goals. We’re all focused on short-term satisfaction. But, when we break long-term goals in to short-term repetitions, that is when we achieve power over our performance. I have a personal goal to do 50 sit-ups and 50 push-ups five days each week. Honestly, I hate taking the time to work out. But, this routine takes me less than five minutes to complete, so I have made a habit of it. While my 50 reps may not seem like much, this adds up to 13,000 sit-ups and 13,000 push-ups each year. Just think if you apply the same concept to your training—if you can make a habit of dedicating a small amount of time toward performing correct repetitions with your horse, your results a year from now will be astounding. The power of repetition makes something that appears overwhelming look very achievable. The moment when it finally starts to click and you begin to see those small repetitions pay off is incredibly rewarding. When you reach that point of success, figure out the thing(s) that got you to that point. Then, make a commitment to keep doing those things, or you won’t stay there for long. One of my favorite quotes is “win the day.” This is a simple reminder to do the small steps that will propel me toward my end goal. When we break big goals down into manageable repetitions, the road to success becomes a little shorter each day.
S1 E10 · Tue, January 07, 2020
The way your horse acts is a direct reflection of you. Even if you are working with just one horse, you are a trainer. Every time you work with your horse, you are establishing habits—good and bad. Bad habits are reactive responses. Things like pawing, kicking up, or bucking occur when your horse engages the “reactive” side of its brain rather than “thinking” side. If your horse is doing these things when you get on its back, your horse is not ready to learn. Too often, trainers who are struggling with their riding adopt the mindset of “I’ll fix it tomorrow.” But, this mindset only reinforces your horse’s reactive responses. You must be mindful of the signals you are sending your horse. For example, in barrel racing—if you have a horse that has been going by the first barrel, you begin to anticipate this exact response. When you anticipate, you are starting to correct a problem before it even happens. Horses are smart animals, and they can feel the tension in your body when you begin to anticipate a problem. Often times, this tension is enough to flip the switch from the horse’s “thinking” side of its brain to the “reacting” side. Your horse’s reactive state of mind is the number one thing that holds you back from progressing. When your horse adopts this mindset, it is controllable, but not trainable. But, there is some good news—you, as a trainer, are capable of flipping the switch back and helping your horse engage the thinking side of its brain. When you control your temperament, you soften your mind, as well as your horse’s.
S1 E9 · Tue, December 31, 2019
When you have a weak link in your foundation, there will come a time where progress becomes incredibly difficult. There will be a point in time when getting to that next level seems nearly impossible. When I was a young trainer, I used to believe that I was only training the horse if I was on its back. This mindset severely limited me from establishing a strong foundation with the horses I worked with. This was because I failed to understand the difference between how a horse thinks and how a horse reacts. Horses have excellent memories for both good and bad situations. When they feel pressure in a situation, they have the choice to either think or react. Every horse has a “fight or flight” mechanism, and each horse is different in how they respond to this instinct. Horses that engage “fight” mode tend to push back and dominate the training session or display other negative reactions, such as pawing, rearing, kicking, or bucking. These reactions are caused by the horse’s failure to activate the thinking side of its brain. As a trainer, you can help stimulate your horse to engage the thinking side of its brain long before you ever step up into the saddle. You use a combination of pressure and release to stimulate thinking and understanding. The key to this combination is that once your horse gives the response you are asking for, you have to immediately release. If you keep asking for more without a release, your horse gets confused. You can apply pressure without ever touching the horse. Our presence in a horse’s stall can be enough to add pressure to some horses, especially young ones. Think about this — if you apply pressure on the ground and your horse doesn’t respond, how is that going to carry over when you are on its back? If your horse pushes back against pressure on the ground, what makes you think that they are going to move away from the pressure of your leg once you get on its back? Your horse has to respect the space you are trying to create. When your horse develops respect, it starts to develop trust and understanding. When your horse feels pressure, it stimulates the horse’s thinking response. You use pressure to help the horse find release. The release is what you teach. The ultimate goal is when you step in that stall, your horse immediately associates you with the thinking side of its brain. If you are working your horse on the ground and you are the one moving your feet, they are training you. The objective is to have your horse move around you. This takes time and patience, but it is essential to developing a horse’s foundation. Stay tuned for Part 2 of the “Activating the Thinking Side of the Horse’s Brain” series, releasing in Episode 10 of the Be Your Best Horsemanship podcast.
S1 E8 · Tue, December 24, 2019
All of us are on a horsemanship journey where we learn a lot about horses and a lot about life. I remember very vividly the day that my journey changed. It was the day when I stopped letting my frustrations dictate my communication with my horse. If you are experiencing a challenging time in your horsemanship journey, do an evaluation—look at yourself, look at your horse, look at what you’re trying to accomplish, and think about what transitions you are going to need to make to get there. What is the difference in where you are and where you want to be?Sometimes, all it takes is reinforcing a fundamental. But, it’s a process. You have to fix things one at a time.
S1 E7 · Tue, December 17, 2019
If you attend one of my clinics, you’ll hear me talk a lot about keeping your horse soft in the face. While keeping your horse soft in the face is necessary in most disciplines, sometimes we forget about the other body parts that are connected to the horse’s face. Your horse has five main body parts, and all five of those body parts have to be cohesive. Think about it like a piece of machinery. If one part is stuck, it usually impacts other parts of the equipment as well. The same is true with the anatomy of a horse. If your horse is not responsive to the pressure of your leg, it will get stiff in its head, neck, face, and ribcage. If your horse tends to hang on your rein and drift down the arena when you’re loping a circle, this is a good indicator that its ribcage is stiff. Stiffness causes a wide range of issues with a horse’s performance. In barrel racing, for example, a common issue I see at many of my clinics is when horses go by or dive into a barrel. When this happens, the horses’ hind quarters get strung out behind them and their backs become hollowed out. As a result, the only thing they can do to balance back out is to lunge forward. One particular exercise that I do daily with any horse that I get on, whether it is starting a colt or riding a seasoned horse, is to soften them laterally and vertically before they ever take a step forward. When I step into the saddle, I immediately reach down on my rein and tip my horse’s nose to one side or the other. While its nose is tipped, I keep pressure against its ribcage and squeeze my horse forward so its front feet follow its nose. If I’m going to the right, I will still have some pressure with my right leg, but I will have more pressure with my left leg because that leg is what is keeping my forward motion. I’m going to keep my right leg against that horse because I want my horse to ride around my leg and to flex its ribcage around my leg. I want my horse to learn to balance on its hind inside leg, and my leg is going to become the pivot point. No matter the discipline, achieving that balance is one of the most fundamental motions a horse needs to be able to perform.
S1 E6 · Tue, December 10, 2019
Early on in my training career, I realized that the success of my day is heavily dependent upon my attitude. So, before I ever went outside to catch a horse, I had to stop myself and consider what I was allowing myself to think about. And, I had to decide if my thoughts were setting me up for a successful day of training.
S1 E5 · Tue, December 03, 2019
In life, challenging times are inevitable. This is especially true if you are in the horse training business. You are going to experiences challenges each and every day. These are the little road bumps that can either derail us or empower us. It is basic human nature be frustrated by a challenge. But, when you start to realize that challenges are what truly teach you the most, you start to view these struggles differently. Over the past 30 years as a horse trainer, I have come to realize that for this to be a rewarding career and for me to have the right mindset, I need to start enjoying the journey. The journey takes up the majority of your time. The destination is a brief point in time where you reach the pinnacle of success. This point in time does not last very long before you have to reset and start again. In order to continue to grow and improve, it is essential to embrace a few features of the journey.
S1 E4 · Tue, November 26, 2019
If you are listening or reading along with today’s episode, you’re already making an investment toward improving your knowledge and understanding. You’ve probably heard the saying, “knowledge is power,” but this is true only if you apply that knowledge. When you begin sharing your knowledge and experiences with others, that is when you begin to make an impact. That is the point when you begin to use your knowledge to not only help yourself, but to help others, too. Investing in yourself doesn’t always mean going out and spending money to improve some aspect of your life. Investing in yourself is more about the process of gathering knowledge that you can pass along to others.
S1 E3 · Tue, November 19, 2019
Training your horse's mind to think, and understand, the responses you are asking for, is the first thing you have to be able to do to train a top level horse in any discipline.
S1 E2 · Tue, November 12, 2019
Horses have taught me as much, if not more, than I have taught them over the years. When you are working with horses, you start to learn a lot about yourself, and you start to learn a lot about life. Many of the philosophies used to train a horse are applicable to every area of my life. Growth happens when you have an understanding that you are going to have failures and tough days. You have to put one foot in front of the other and keep trying. If you never quit, you’ll never fail.
S1 E1 · Tue, November 05, 2019
"Be Your Best" is hosted by professional horse trainer and clinician, Phil Haugen. Inspired by his “1% better everyday" training philosophy, Phil explains the methods, mindset, and performance tips that drive continuous learning and growth in horsemanship, as well as in life. Join us each week as Phil shares his experiences over the past 30 years in the horse training industry, discussing the methods that have helped him bridge the language barrier between horse and rider to enhance understanding and performance from foundation to finish .
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