Developing Heightened Awareness in Your Horsemanship
In this episode, I share some thoughts sparked by watching the Pendleton Roundup this week—one of the most unique rodeos out there with its grass arena. What stood out to me was how some riders’ performances looked just as solid on grass as they would in dirt. That kind of consistency doesn’t come by accident. It’s the result of a heightened awareness of horsemanship. In this segment, I share tips for developing better awareness as a rider, improving your balance and timing, and why those fundamentals matter no matter what setting you’re in.
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25:56
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25:56
Finding Confidence Outside Your Comfort Zone
"I’m so far ahead with this horse" - said no one, ever. The truth is, none of us feel 100% “ready” all the time—whether it’s bringing a horse to a clinic, entering a competition, or even stepping into a new opportunity in life. In this episode, I share why confidence isn’t about waiting until everything feels perfect, but about being willing to step outside your comfort zone and learn in the process. I’ll talk about some of the common concerns I hear from trainers, how I’ve experienced the same doubts myself, and why the very thing that makes you nervous is often the exact thing you need to grow.
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32:17
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32:17
Training vs. Competition Mode
In performance events and horsemanship, there’s a big difference between being in “training mode” and being in “competition mode.” The challenge for many of us—myself included—is figuring out how to balance the two. In this episode, I talk about the mindset shift that happens when you step into a competitive setting and how to structure your practices so your training prepares you for the pressure of competition. At the end of the day, it’s about keeping your horse solid in training mode while building the confidence and focus you’ll need when it’s time to compete.
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29:30
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29:30
Setting Realistic Goals in the Practice Pen and the Arena
Success in competition doesn’t come from wishing or expecting. It comes from preparation—and part of that preparation is hauling, entering, and putting yourself in real-world situations often enough to build confidence. In this week's episode, I'm sharing some stories from a recent roping I entered that reminded me how important it is to set realistic goals for both myself and my horses, as well as some fundamentals I'm focusing on to fine-tune my preparation for next time.
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35:23
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35:23
Keeping Your Horse Soft & Focused During Summer Training
Summer training brings its own unique set of challenges. From heat and humidity to flies and mosquitoes, the extra stress on our horses can chip away at their focus and trainability. In this episode, I’m sharing some tips for keeping your horse soft, focused, and in the right frame of mind, even when conditions aren’t ideal. From simple adjustments in your training routine to the fly control gear that helps keep your horses comfortable and relaxed, this episode is all about setting your horse up for success no matter the season.Episode Resources:Cashel Crusader Fly Mask with Long NoseCashel Crusader Leg Guards (Set of 4)Cashel Lightweight Fly Sheet
"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.
New Zealand