Train Your Own Horse with Stacy Westfall

In this episode, Stacy explores how a fresh perspective on learning can transform your horsemanship journey. Through sharing her own mindset shift about future learning goals, she demonstrates how being specific with timeframes while staying open to possibilities can create powerful growth opportunities. Key takeaways: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8" style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Learn why comparing your current learning to a previous period of growth can be motivating rather than intimidating Discover how slowing down to notice more layers can actually accelerate progress Challenge common misconceptions about what "learning more" means Listeners will walk away understanding that growth isn't about rushing forward or making dramatic changes, but rather about deepening understanding. Whether you're a beginner or experienced rider, this episode provides practical insights about goal setting, the importance of staying curious, and permission to explore your horsemanship journey with both the enthusiasm of a newcomer and the wisdom you already possess.

"If I could snap my fingers and give you a gift...” In this episode, Stacy shares what she considers one of the most powerful tools in any rider's journey. Drawing insights from the fascinating way children naturally approach familiar content, this episode reveals how riders can turn video from an overwhelming experience into a journey of discovery. Through practical tips and encouraging insights, Stacy breaks down the three stages riders typically move through and offers guidance for each phase. Whether listeners are still avoiding the camera or ready to deepen their understanding, this episode offers a fresh perspective on video review that could make 2025 their most insightful year of riding yet.

In this episode, Stacy explores why celebrating small wins matters, even - and especially - when faced with unexpected emotions about our progress. Through two student examples, she shows how awareness of subtle changes and acceptance of our journey's ups and downs leads to deeper understanding and growth. She shares her personal journey with the concept of "life is 50/50," from initial skepticism to discovering its transformative power in horse training. This mindset shift helps explain why resisting challenges actually magnifies them, while accepting both progress and setbacks creates space to notice the small wins we might otherwise miss. Listeners will learn how embracing both sides of progress - the expected and unexpected - leads to more sustainable progress.

In this episode, Stacy guides listeners through creating a year-end review from their horse's perspective. Building on her popular approach of sharing stories from the horse's viewpoint, she offers: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8" style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Two ways to participate: follow along with the podcast or download a free interactive PDF workbook (click here to go to the page with the pdf) Examples from Enzo and Ember that demonstrate how to capture your horse's personality Creative prompts to help identify memorable moments from your horse's perspective A chance to practice seeing daily experiences through your horse's eyes This unique exercise combines storytelling with practical insights to help riders better understand their horses and deepen their partnerships.