Show Notes
Horsemanship Breakthroughs Podcast An Interview with Shawna Karrasch
"Training Should Be Fun For You AND Your Horse!”
Shawna is a pioneer in the use of Positive Reinforcement Training with horses. Her powerful and humane behavioral training techniques are an eye-opening experience for equine professionals, competitors, and amateurs alike. She has produced books and videos, and traveled worldwide to teach the concepts of bridge conditioning and positive reinforcement for horses. Shawna’s infectious enthusiasm, sense of humor, years of training experience and rapport with animals and humans makes her one of the finest positive-reinforcement trainers in North America. 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬:
Shawna’s first impressions of horses and how she connects this to her own trauma Transitioning from working with marine animals to horses and how it was different Common misconceptions with using treats in training Riding with positive reinforcement Shawna’s thoughts on negative and combined reinforcement How to get started correctly with positive reinforcement if you’ve never used treats before. The two general horse personality types that Shawna has identified The happy horse discussion! The importance of helping your horse learn to be a problem solver & the joy in the struggle of solving puzzles Shawna’s book recommendations & upcoming learning opportunities PLUS so much more!
Shawna is highly educated and experienced in animal behaviour both with marine animals and equines. She is a compassionate, humble, and open-minded trainer with a real passion for horses enjoying their training with humans.
Find out more & connect with Shawna at https://shawnakarrasch.com/ or on Facebook by searching ‘Shawna Karrasch’
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!
************* Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Connect with me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amalia_horses/ Get the free connection & communication mini-course at https://ww.amaliadempsey.com/
More from Horsemanship Breakthroughs Podcast
In this episode, I chat with the founder and managing director of WOW Saddles: David Kempsell. WoW is a revolutionary saddle brand known for its fully adjustable, modular design that supports both horse and rider through every stage of development and performance. We dive into the inspiration behind WoW, the technology that sets it apart (like carbon fiber trees, Flair air flocking, and interchangeable seats and panels) and how this system helps improve comfort, movement, and balance. I’ve personally ridden in WOW Saddles for over 10 years and have always appreciated their adjustability, comfort, and unique look. Saddle fit is such a personal and important part of horse welfare, and when you find something that works, it’s a huge relief. This episode isn’t sponsored, I simply love talking about things I genuinely use and believe in. If you’re curious about saddle fitting, have a tricky horse to fit, or are tired of trialling saddles that never quite work, you’ll enjoy this conversation!
In this episode of the Horsemanship Breakthroughs Podcast, I chat with Jen Clingly & Jeremy Ford from Wild About Hooves! Jeremy, a former traditional farrier turned barefoot trimmer, and Jen, a record-breaking barefoot endurance rider, are a powerhouse duo changing the way we think about hoof care. Friendly, humble, and incredibly knowledgeable, Jen & Jeremy share their journey, why they went barefoot, and how wild brumbies inspired a better way to support sound, healthy horses without shoes. If you’ve ever questioned whether metal shoes are necessary or wondered how to support healthier, more natural hooves, or maybe you’d like to become a trimmer yourself, this is a must-listen!_____
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Andrew McLean who is a renowned equine academic, author, coach, presenter, and founder of the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre. We explore key topics such as ethical use of reinforcement, welfare in horse sports, and the future of horse training and management. We also touch on Andrew’s fascinating work with elephants. Dr. McLean’s career includes winning the Eureka Prize for Science, coaching at elite levels, and riding competitively at high levels in eventing, dressage, and show jumping. He continues to shape the next generation through his contributions to Pony Club Australia's syllabus, and offers a Diploma in Equitation Science for all ages and levels. Enjoy the show!_____ 🔗 LINKS MENTIONED IN TODAY’S EPISODE: Dr Andrew McLean has authored a nationally accredited horse training Diploma, the Diploma of Equitation Science. This qualification is suitable for all horse riders providing students with highly practical skills and in-depth knowledge of all aspects of horse handling, coaching and training. Graduates are equipped with increasingly sought after skills in equine management and evidence-based and ethical equine trainingStudy online with flexible timeframes and a range of payment options. To find out more visit: https://esi-education.com/courses/diploma/
“Feel is knowing what to do, timing is knowing when to do it” ~ Elsa Sinclair
In the latest episode of The Horsemanship Breakthroughs Podcast, I am joined by Olivia Kelly (Towers) @towers432, who shares her incredible story of being a successful professional Grand Prix Dressage Rider to finding the world of horsemanship and biomechanics. In this episode, we discuss: