This episode of In Stride is sponsored by The Equestrian College Advisor. Navigate the college search with confidence and find the right fit for both academics and riding. Visit equestriancollegeadvisor.com to learn more and book a consultation. In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by horsemanship trainer Brendan Wise. Brendan Wise is an American rider and trainer recognized for his work in classical dressage, bridleless riding, and show jumping. He began his career in Natural Horsemanship and Western disciplines, training under John and Josh Lyons, and later founded Brendan Wise Equestrian in Fallston, Maryland, where he offers lessons, clinics, coaching, and performance work. Brendan has competed in show jumping at the National Grand Prix level and is especially known for riding his horse “Lyric” bridleless up to 1.40m in competition, proving that bridleless riding can rival traditional methods. In this episode, Brendan shares his journey in the horse world and how it ultimately led him to bridleless riding, including: • His perspective on classical vs. non-classical riding and how he applies classical principles in his training • Why prioritizing the welfare and happiness of the horse is essential, even while running a business • His path to riding and competing bridleless in the show jumping world • How and why he developed a bridleless system that trains horses to do everything a bridled horse can do Join Brendan and Sinead for an inspiring conversation about the importance of the horse–rider relationship and the ways Brendan’s work honors and strengthens that connection.
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1:47:08
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1:47:08
Shannon Brinkman: Behind the Lens of Equestrian Sport's Most Iconic Images
This episode of In Stride is sponsored by Purdue University’s Online Certificate in Equitation Science. Rethink tradition and train with purpose as you explore the science behind how horses think, move, and learn. Register now! In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by international sports photographer Shannon Brinkman. Shannon Brinkman is an internationally recognized equestrian photographer with a career spanning over 30 years. Since beginning professionally in 1991, she has covered six Olympic Games, World Equestrian Games, Pan American Games, World Cup Finals, and the Kentucky Three-Day Event. Her work, known for capturing the artistry and movement of sport horses, has earned multiple international awards, including the Alltech International Alliance of Equestrian Journalists Media Award for Photography and honors in the FEI Solidarity World Photo Grand Prix. In this episode, Shannon reflects on her career and passion for photographing sport horses, including: • How she first discovered photography and found her way into the equestrian world • The ways she stays inspired and creative behind the camera • What a typical competition week looks like for her and her team • The influence she hopes her images have across different equestrian communities Join Shannon and Sinead for an engaging conversation about her journey, her artistry, and the lasting impact of her work in the world of sport horses.
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1:26:36
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1:26:36
Michel Vaillancourt: Lessons from a Rider, Coach, and Course Designer
This episode of In Stride is sponsored by Purdue University’s Online Certificate in Equitation Science. Rethink tradition and train with purpose as you explore the science behind how horses think, move, and learn. Register now! In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by Canadian Olympic show jumper Michel Vaillancourt. Michel Vaillancourt is a Canadian show jumper, Olympic medalist, coach, and course designer. At just 22 years old, he won the individual silver medal in show jumping at the 1976 Montréal Olympics riding Branch County. After his competitive career, he coached and served as chef d’équipe for the Canadian show jumping team at major championships. Today, he is a respected FEI course designer and has created courses for top competitions, including the Pan American Games and World Cup Finals. In this episode, Michel reflects on his remarkable career as a rider, coach, and course designer, including: • The motivation that has fueled him to stay at the top of the sport • His Olympic journey and the story behind competing at the 1976 Games • The challenges and rewards of course design and his favorite venues • How safety has evolved in the show jumping discipline Join Michel and Sinead for an engaging conversation about his lifelong contributions to the sport and the many roles he has held along the way.
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1:20:36
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1:20:36
Sara Kozumplik: Building a More Inclusive Future for Eventing
This episode of In Stride is sponsored by Purdue University’s Online Certificate in Equitation Science. Rethink tradition and train with purpose as you explore the science behind how horses think, move, and learn. Register now! In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by US 5* event rider and Grand Prix show jumper Sara Kozumplik. Sara Kozumplik is a five-star event rider and Grand Prix show jumper who runs Overlook Farm North in Virginia and Overlook South in Florida. She is a certified U.S. Eventing coach and has coached national teams from Venezuela, Panama, and Barbados at international championships. She is involved in several committees and scholarships within US Eventing and US Equestrian to grow and diversify the sport, including the Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet Scholarship. Sara also played a key role in developing TerraNova Equestrian Center and contributes to the strategic planning of major venues such as the Kentucky Horse Park, Morven Park International, Bromont International, and Millbrook Horse Trials. In this episode, Sara shares her perspective on working with venues across the country and her efforts to make eventing more inclusive, including: • A behind-the-scenes look at the US Open at Morven Park in the fall • What she’s observed that makes events and venues successful • Ways people in the sport can help create a more welcoming and inclusive environment • Her work with the Strides for Equality Equestrians Ever So Sweet Scholarship and camps Join Sara and Sinead for an insightful discussion on keeping venues thriving and building a more inclusive future for the sport. Click here to learn more about Strides for Equality Equestrians!
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50:54
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50:54
David O’Connor: Shaping the Future of Equestrian Sport
This episode of In Stride is sponsored by Purdue University’s Online Certificate in Equitation Science. Rethink tradition and train with purpose as you explore the science behind how horses think, move, and learn. Register now! In this episode of “In Stride,” Sinead is joined by Olympic event rider David O’Connor. David O’Connor is one of the most accomplished event riders in history. He represented the United States at two Olympic Games, earning team silver in 1996 and both individual gold and team bronze in 2000. He claimed individual silver and team gold at the 1999 Pan American Games and team gold at the 2002 World Equestrian Games. David served as President of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) from 2004–2012 and was inducted into the United States Eventing Association (USEA) Hall of Fame in 2009, alongside two of his horses. In 2022, he was appointed USEF Chief of Sport, overseeing international and national sport programs, including initiatives in sport integrity, education, and equine and human safety and welfare. In this episode, David shares insights from his role as USEF Chief of Sport and his vision for the future of equestrian competition, including: • How USEF is improving its ability to address and manage horse welfare concerns. • The education programs he’s prioritizing and why they’re essential to the sport’s future. • Updates on preparations for the 2028 LA Olympics and the future of eventing’s place in the Games. • Ways riders, coaches, and supporters can contribute to the growth and evolution of eventing. Join David and Sinead for an insightful conversation about the initiatives, planning, and collaborations shaping the next chapter of the sport.
Explore Ride iQ's podcasts to inspire, motivate, and educate equestrians of all levels. In Stride with Sinead Halpin Maynard offers intimate talks with industry experts. Equestrian Mastermind dives into sports psychology sessions led by Natalie Hummel with professional riders. Riders Unscripted presents candid sessions with amateur riders. Equestrian Mama with Lucy Courchaine sheds light on the balance of motherhood and riding.
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