The Magic of Horsecraft

<br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe</a>

<p>**Summary:**</p><p>- Join Paige from the Magic of Horse Craft and her friend Kate, a firefighter, as they recount a life-changing incident.</p><p>- An unforeseen horse kick led to a medical emergency and a surprise cancer diagnosis.</p><p>- Discover how this event taught valuable lessons in awareness and proactive health advocacy.</p><p>- Learn about recognizing distress signs, being present, and embracing resilience.</p><p>- Explore the journey of recovery, the importance of community support, and insights into horsemanship.</p><p>- Hear how adversity led to unexpected blessings and a renewed outlook on life.</p><p>- Engage with ideas on living in solutions and nurturing connections with horses and people.</p><p>00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene</p><p>01:11 The Life-Changing Incident</p><p>04:39 Signs and Symptoms of Internal Injuries</p><p>08:31 Recovery and Silver Linings</p><p>21:04 Reflecting on the Incident</p><p>21:44 Understanding Horse Behavior</p><p>25:15 Lessons in Horsemanship</p><p>29:00 Moving Forward with Resilience</p><p>Hey there, horse lovers and fellow seekers of resilience! I've had a whirlwind of experiences recently that I'd love to share with you. Join me for a discussion with my friend, Kate. This one is about courage, unexpected turns, and finding silver linings when life gives you a proverbial kick in the gut—or, in my case, a very literal one. </p><p>**A Life-Changing Incident** </p><p>It all started on what seemed like an ordinary day in March 2025. I found myself in an unfortunate encounter with a horse, leading to an emergency helicopter ride and a splenectomy. My incredible friend Kate was there, her quick actions likely saving my life. What could have been just a terrifying experience turned into a life-altering reality when doctors discovered a cancer metastasis on my spine during the scans. </p><p>**Looking for the Silver Linings** </p><p>While this news was initially daunting, I chose to view it as a gift. Without the incident, the cancer might have remained hidden until it was too late. It was a reminder of the importance of staying aware and advocating for oneself even in the chaos. Thanks to Kate's persistence and the medical team's diligence, we uncovered something critical in time to act. </p><p>**Embracing Lessons in Horsemanship and Life** </p><p>In dealing with this and reflecting with Kate, I've learned valuable lessons not just about resilience, but also about horsemanship. Paying attention to a horse’s signals and being present can prevent accidents and improve our bond with these generous animals. These principles apply to life—staying conscious and engaged can help us manage the unexpected twists that come our way. </p><p>**Moving Forward with Newfound Strength** </p><p>This journey has taught me that resilience isn't just about bouncing back—it's about how we choose to grow from our experiences. I’m grateful for this second chance and for the lessons on embracing life's solutions rather than its problems. I’d love for you to join our community on the Magic of Horse Craft. Let’s keep learning and growing together. Remember, anything is possible, and we don't have to face life's challenges alone.</p><p>Take a chance,</p><p>Paige</p><p>xoxox</p><p>P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!)</p><p>Learn more and get in touch at:</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.themagicofhorsecraft.com/">www.themagicofhorsecraft.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft">https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraf</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft">t</a></p><p></p><p>Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse:</p><p>https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p>Sign up for our course:</p><p>https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p></p><p>#horsecraft #horsemanship #themagicofhorsecraft #horsecraft101 #love #themagicofhorsecraftandlife #HeartMath #horses #horse #love #horsemanship #equestrian #resilience #courage #equestrianlife #clinics</p><p>#reframing #mistakes #learning #goodjudgement #feel</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe</a>

<p>Welcome to another exciting journey into the world of Horsecraft, where we unravel traditional notions of horse training and dive deep into innovative approaches that defy conventional wisdom. </p><p>This time, we're inspired by the outspoken Shelby Dennis, who challenges norms and encourages a fresh perspective on equine interaction.</p><p>Meet Shelby Dennis: Modern-Day Viking of Horsecraft </p><p>Shelby Dennis is a horse trainer and behaviorist used to causing a maelstrom of heated reactions to her posts. Turns out, she can stand a good old fashioned troll-fest. But, that’s NOT her intention. If you aren’t familiar with her, you can find her posts <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/milestoneequestrian96">here.</a></p><p>At a time when our social license to operate in the world of horse sport is under fire and our traditional training methods based on pressure and release and Dominance Theory are being challenged, examples of change are needed. And while our governing bodies of sport are theoretically there to protect horses from our human ambition, Shelby is unafraid to show them unequivocally that they are failing.</p><p>Here are some examples of her posts. How do they make you feel?</p><p>Shelby likes to remind us that how we react to these things we have normalized for so long, says more about us … than it does about her. </p><p>Twenty eight year old Shelby and others of her generation are taking us old folks to task. Times have changed. We don’t need horses for war and work anymore. It is time to evolve Horsecraft and Shelby stands as a beacon of change in the equestrian world, known for her unyielding belief in scientifically backed horse training methods. Far from the confines of dominance theory, Shelby's approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and redefining leadership. </p><p>Shelby entered the horse world through traditional breed circuits, immersed in methods that often prioritized control rather than understanding. Her transformative journey began when she moved her Arabian horse to a barn where horses roamed freely, a change that led to astonishing behavioral improvements. This sparked her curiosity and led her to explore equine behavior and physiology more deeply. </p><p>Debunking Dominance: A New Paradigm </p><p>A crucial part of Shelby’s narrative is the debunking of dominance theory—a concept initially derived from flawed wolf studies. Shelby explains how dominance is often misinterpreted as a fight for status, when it’s rather a quest for harmony and resource management among horses. This theory permeates traditional training methods, creating adversarial relationships that belie the horse's true nature. </p><p>Shelby advocates for an equitation style focused on partnership and understanding rather than command and control. Her methods emphasize mutual respect and positive reinforcement, reshaping how we view leadership in the barn. </p><p>The Science of Change: Positive Reinforcement </p><p>Shelby is a staunch advocate for positive reinforcement, a training approach that encourages rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing undesired ones. This method not only fosters a better relationship between horse and rider but also nurtures a positive learning environment for the horse. The key is timing and consistency—hallmarks of good training regardless of the specific methods used. </p><p>Through courses and personal experiences, Shelby underscores the importance of adapting our training tools to the needs of our horses rather than adhering to rigid, outdated frameworks. She challenges the notion that harsher tools provide better control, instead focusing on how understanding a horse’s emotional state and needs can lead to safer, more effective interactions.</p><p>Personal Growth and Societal Impact </p><p>At the heart of Shelby’s philosophy is personal growth for both trainer and horse. She encourages fellow equestrians to cultivate self-assurance and seek community support, helping one another navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise from questioning longstanding traditions. By doing so, we can build a compassionate community focused on the well-being of the horse. </p><p>Conclusion: A Call to Rethink </p><p>Shelby Dennis and others like her, are not just changing how we train horses—she’s redefining our relationship with them. Her narrative invites us to embrace the unknown, challenge the status quo, and become advocates for ethical horse welfare. </p><p>As the world of equine sports faces scrutiny, adopting a more empathetic approach may be the key to not only preserving but enhancing our beloved practices. </p><p>Join us as we follow Shelby Dennis and others in reshaping the world of horse training. Let’s move forward together and see what is possible.</p><p>Take a chance,</p><p>Paige Lockton</p><p>P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!)</p><p>Learn more and get in touch at:</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.themagicofhorsecraft.com">www.themagicofhorsecraft.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft">https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft</a></p><p>Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p>Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p></p><p>00:00 Introduction and Welcome</p><p>01:00 Meet Shelby: A New Approach to Horse Training</p><p>05:10 Challenges and Criticisms in the Horse World</p><p>17:56 Personal Experiences and Paradigm Shifts</p><p>34:05 Debunking Dominance Theory</p><p>44:41 Understanding the Impact of Forced Training</p><p>45:01 Redefining Leadership in Horse Training</p><p>46:25 Transitioning to Gentler Equipment</p><p>47:18 Addressing Emotional Regulation in Horses</p><p>47:45 Practical Solutions for Handling Difficult Horses</p><p>55:19 The Importance of Nuance in Horse Training</p><p>01:02:52 Reinforcing Positive Behaviors</p><p>01:04:49 The Science Behind Punishment and Reinforcement</p><p>01:08:32 Applying Positive Reinforcement Techniques</p><p>01:14:15 Self-Validation and Confidence in Horsemanship</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe</a>

<p>What follows was one of a series of Facebook Posts written while floating in my childhood friend Nona’s hot tub, when her family offered me the Zen-like space of their Collingwood Home for a Christmas retreat with a new love. </p><p></p><p><p>The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></p><p>I feel like I channeled something worth capturing, while I was floating and flirting with Facebook; something worth spreading beyound the realm of its birthplace in the tub. So, I recorded them and uploaded them here, for spreading with love. Let me know your thoughts on this little series and a glimpse into my life outside of the stable. Enjoy the photos and let me know your thoughts!</p><p><strong>Jan 3rd, 2025, Collingwood, Ontario</strong></p><p>My time in the Bell-Morrow Spa is coming to an end. It was exactly what the Doctor would have ordered ... if he knew his ass from his elbow, that is! Most don't.Thankfully, some of us DO. Nona Morrow sure does! If I had to single out the one thing that I am most grateful for, that was most influential in 2024, it was the back-and-forth voice bombs (voice messages that deliver truth bombs) between my childhood friend, Nona and I.Together, we untangled so many of the knots we unconsciously tied ourselves in, when we believed and lived by the programming of our era. </p><p><strong><em>The Good Girl Syndrome</em></strong><strong><em>The Perfectionism Paradox</em></strong><strong><em>People Pleasers Not-So-Anonymous (Pick me! Pick me!)</em></strong><strong><em>Co-dependence Is The Way (and Passive Aggressiveness Is The Key)</em></strong><strong><em>Self-Sabotage Your Way To Mediocrity! Become SOME of What You COULD Have Been, To Be Who You THINK They Need You To Be!</em></strong><strong><em>Trust Your Nervous System Response to Threat and Your Previous Experience, Then Let The Mayor of Thinkytown Solve Everything and Run The Show. Because That ALWAYS Works!</em></strong><strong><em>Depleting Ourselves in Service of Others Is A Badge Of Honour </em></strong><strong><em>If It's Not Working, Just Try Harder</em></strong><strong><em>But For The Sake Of All Things Holy, Please Don't Be Yourself Out-loud! Keep THAT S.H.I.T. For Your Family And Loved Ones</em></strong></p><p>I am here to say, after considerable study and debate ...Hogwash!I don't know about YOU, but these programs haven't worked out so well for me. How about you? Maybe I will just go around not giving a toss, and just being me at my shiniest I can manage moment by moment? And yes, that will vary.But what if we do the work?What IF we LOOK at the things that bring us pleasure? What if we eat, taste, touch, smell, hear, learn, and immerse ourselves in things that bring us back to love?Will YOU do it?I wonder how THAT will turn out for you?Keep me posted.I am evolving as fast as I can. Friends like Nona help. Nona's best advice to me ..."Come from a place of Love, Paigey-Poo!You CAN. There is ALWAYS a way. We are always either coming from a place of love ...... or of fear.Check in.Which is it?Get curious. Find a space for love in the rough and tangled bits. Find where you are holding judgement. Soften. Find where you see that in yourself and love yourself anyway. Replace it with what you WANT to feel, then move forward from this newly illuminated vantange point.Sigh ...Nona would say [quothe I, from her hot tub] …</p><p><p><strong>Do WHATEVER it takes to replenish your soul, your energy, your vibe, your space, your way of being. Do the things that light you up. Operate from there, as much as humanly possible, from one moment to the next. </strong><strong>Steer back to love and non-judgment as necessary. </strong><strong>Expect it to be necessary. </strong><strong>You are NOT alone.</strong></p></p><p>Nona would say, from 4 AM in this very hot tub ...</p><p><p><strong>Never forget, Paigey-Poo! You ARE love!</strong></p></p><p>Take a chance,Paige Lockton xoxox The Magic of Horsecraft</p><p>P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!)</p><p>Learn more and get in touch at:</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.themagicofhorsecraft.com">www.themagicofhorsecraft.com</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/">https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft">https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft</a></p><p>Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p>Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com</p><p>#horsecraft #horsemanship #themagicofhorsecraft #themagicofhorsecraftandlife #HeartMath #horses #horse #love #horsemanship #equestrian #resilience #courage #equestrianlife #westernpleasure #western #westernlife #eventing #whatittakes #hope #courage #connection #horsehumanlove #horsewhisperer #healer #healing #vulnerability #riding #confidence #equine #trust #horsetraining #communication #animalcommunicator#perspective#newyear2025#youareloved</p><p></p><p><p>The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe</a>

<p>Welcome to a safe and thoughtful space for a dynamic debate with someone who challenges the status quo: Shelby Dennis. In this discussion, we dive into the power of questioning long-held beliefs and the courage to embrace scientific perspectives, even when they disrupt traditional views in horsecraft.</p><p>CHALLENGING TRADITION: NAVIGATING THE EVOLUTION OF HORSECRAFT</p><p>Join me as I engage in a dynamic discussion with Shelby Dennis—a young, fearless voice in the world of horse training. Unapologetically science-driven, Shelby is changing the narrative around traditional horse-training methods like dominance theory.</p><p><p>The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></p><p>We’ll explore the distinction between shame and guilt in behavior modification and venture into the importance of evolving alongside new evidence.</p><p><strong>Don't miss this chance to question everything you thought you knew.</strong></p><p><strong>Join us on January 14th for a safe, spirited debate!</strong></p><p>If you are a horse lover and you don't yet know Shelby Dennis, may I respectfully suggest that you should.</p><p>If you already know her, chances are you have an opinion. Chances are, it's a STRONG one, too!</p><p></p><p>Shelby Dennis is unapologetically ruffling feathers in the horse world, sharing images of horses in ALL equestrian disciplines displaying stress behaviours and top riders being rewarded at FEI events for things we SAY we don't want to see in horse sport.</p><p>People go CRAZY on her site, which hosts consistent posts about Shelby's own past mistakes, and scientifically-backed training methods that have broadened her horizons with horses and led to greater peace.</p><p>People her age are turning the horse world I grew up in, on it's head! They are doing things we never DREAMED of!</p><p>Together we will look at the evolution of Horsecraft and discuss the science of CHANGE, as well as and the importance of avoiding the chasm of SHAME when leading others to new understandings they haven't seen modeled.</p><p>Register to join us. Questions will be moderated at the end of our discussion.</p><p>Who Is Shelby Dennis, from Milestone Equestrian?</p><p>Shelby Dennis stands out for not shying away from the backlash her opinions generate. Rooted in science and education, Shelby’s views on horses and leadership challenge the dominance theory many of us grew up accepting. Her unapologetic stance may unsettle those accustomed to traditional methods, yet it serves as a beacon for those ready to explore the new frontier of horse behavior and training.</p><p>Shame Versus Guilt in Behavioral Change</p><p>A key element of our conversation revolves around understanding the emotional barriers to change, particularly the difference between shame and guilt. Shame suggests a flawed self, whereas guilt acknowledges a misstep, allowing for personal growth. This distinction becomes crucial as we reconsider outdated concepts and adapt to evolving knowledge, rather than clinging to defensive postures.</p><p>The Chasm of Shame and Evolution</p><p>The journey across the metaphorical chasm of shame involves a willingness to step off the comfort platform, acknowledging past actions and embracing new methods. Those with a strong sense of self-worth can traverse this path confidently, evolving and inspiring others, while those less secure may retreat in fear. This metaphor highlights the importance of community and resilience in fostering personal and collective growth.</p><p>Bridging the Gap in Natural Horsemanship</p><p>Some natural horsemanship techniques have faced scrutiny under new scientific understanding, prompting reevaluation of these methods. Through learning about nervous system responses and alternative approaches, people like Shelby emphasize the importance of not alienating latecomers to these newfound insights. We must extend a hand and guide others through this transition, ensuring a collective evolution in how we interact with horses.</p><p>An Invitation to Engage</p><p>I am eager for you to engage with Shelby Dennis on this journey. With her robust understanding of behavior and her fearless advocacy for scientific principles, Shelby invites us to question and learn. Join us for an opportunity to discuss and debate, where all voices are welcomed and respected.</p><p>As horse sports face increased scrutiny and demands for change, let's stand together on the side of progress. Let's evolve with compassion and an open mind, ensuring a future where horses and their well-being remain central.</p><p>Your participation and voice are crucial in this transformative discussion. Embrace the chance to challenge, learn, and grow alongside Shelby Dennis and our community.</p><p>Details</p><p>Tuesday Jan 14th at 9AM PST - 12PM EST</p><p>https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rm-XXvyQTPC8MMeWoI6FFw</p><p><p>The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.</p></p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe</a>