Be Your Best Horsemanship

Overview

Episodes

Details

"Be Your Best Horsemanship" 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.

Recent Episodes

DEC 2, 2025

Perspectives on the EHV-1 Outbreak with Dr. Chrissie Pariseau, Merck Animal Health

In this episode, I am pleased to welcome Chrissie Pariseau, DVM, MS, DABVP (Equine Practice), cVMA with Merck Animal Health to share some perspectives on the current EHV-1 outbreak.

Join us as Dr. Pariseau unpacks the myths and facts about EHV-1 and EHM, including her professional recommendations for monitoring symptoms, testing for the virus, protecting healthy horses in your herd, and caring for those that have been exposed or infected.

49 MIN

NOV 25, 2025

Playing to Your Horse's Strengths

In this week’s episode, I’m talking about the importance of playing to your horse’s strengths. One of the biggest responsibilities we have as horsemen and women is to be good leaders — and a big part of leadership is recognizing the strengths of those we lead.

Just like people, every horse has a different set of strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. Our job is to identify what those are and set them up for success.

Tune in as I share tips for how to identify your horse’s natural tendencies and why doing so can strengthen their confidence, willingness, and longevity.

30 MIN

NOV 18, 2025

Mastering the Art of the Pause

In this week’s episode, I’m talking about one of the simplest—and hardest—skills to master in horsemanship: the pause.

The pause is the brief moment of release and reward that tells your horse, “You did it right.” It’s the part of the process that builds confidence, clarity, and understanding between horse and rider. But it’s also the step that many of us—myself included—tend to rush through.

Tune in as I share how developing better self-awareness and patience can transform your communication with your horse, how the pause teaches effort and confidence, and why slowing down might be the most productive thing you can do in your training.

30 MIN

NOV 11, 2025

Never Stop Believing with Nikki Eggert

In this week's episode, I am joined by Nikki Eggert, owner and operator of Never Stop Believing Performance Horses based out of Sauk Rapids, MN. Nikki is a recent graduate of our ⁠Foundations Certification Program⁠ and a true example of how self-image and belief can transform your life and horsemanship.

Nikki shares her journey through the Certification Program — a process she describes as “truly life changing.” We talk about the mindset shifts, faith, and daily habits that helped her reshape her confidence, grow her business, and strengthen her connection with her horses.

Her approach to horsemanship blends solid fundamentals with a focus on self-talk, goal setting, and mental preparation — building both better horses and stronger riders.

Learn more about Nikki's journey and program: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/certification/nikki-eggert

66 MIN

NOV 4, 2025

One-on-One with Foundations Certification Graduate, Paige Whittaker

In this week's episode, I am joined by Paige Whittaker, who is a recent graduate of our Foundations Certification Program.

When I first met Paige at a clinic in Quinton, VA, it was clear she was a student of the game. She didn’t just show up to improve her horsemanship—she showed up with a desire to grow in every area of her life.

Over the past few years, Paige has continued to invest in herself and her program, staying committed to the process and consistently applying what she’s learned. Watching her evolution—as both a person and a professional—has truly been a privilege.

Paige is the owner and operator of Still Ridge Farm, a two-generation, family-oriented facility nestled on 37 scenic acres in the heart of Hanover County, Virginia. Still Ridge Farm offers a wide range of services—from equine training and boarding to lessons and camps—all designed to enrich the lives of both animals and people as partnerships are built and strengthened with confidence.

Learn more about Paige's journey and program: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/certification/paige-whittaker

35 MIN