Not Just A Pony Ride

154. Scheduled “Ground Week”: Perspectives from a New Routine at HETRA

Don't be afraid to try new things!  This week on the podcast we are talking about a new policy we implemented at HETRA - scheduled "ground weeks".  During this week, all participants who participate in a mounted program move to ground based activities for the week. This gives our horses a break and our participants new opportunities to grow in their skills.   Listen in to hear how we implemented this new routine and what fun, different things our instructors and therapists were up to during this week! Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinksLearn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

153.  Replay:  What Goes Into Thorough Participant Evaluation? 

We’re bringing back one of our favorite “oldie but goodie” episodes—because the topic is that important. Thoughtful, thorough evaluation of incoming participants is a cornerstone of success in equine-assisted services, not only for the individuals we serve, but for our instructors, volunteers, and horses, too.  In this replay, Edye Godden, OTR/L, HPCS, PATH Intl. CTRI and CEO of HETRA, shares her perspective on why evaluations are such a critical piece of the puzzle and breaks down the most common barriers that prevent programs from doing them well. From time constraints to uncertainty about what to look for, we explore what might be getting in the way—and how improving this process can lead to safer, more effective, and more impactful sessions for everyone involved.Check out all of education HETRA University here, including our disability education offerings! www.HETRAUniversity.orgLearn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

152. Five Things Every EAS Professional Should Know About Seizures

Seizures are more common than many people realize—and in equine-assisted services, being prepared can make all the difference. In this episode, we break down five essential things every EAS professional should understand about seizures, from recognition to response, so you can create a safer, more confident environment for your participants, staff, and horses.Learn more details about Seizures and how they impact us in the EAS industry in the webinar:  “Understanding Seizures: Balancing Safety with Inclusivity”. https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/rsL2VZTL/checkoutLearn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

151. When the Stars Align:  Thoughts on Research, Education and Real Experiences

In this episode, we welcome back Edye Godden to reflect on two recent events that sparked important conversations in the EAS industry: the Horses and Humans Research Foundation Conference and HETRA University Live. We discovered that themes from both events aligned—showing that new research is beginning to support the real-world experiences and educational approaches many programs are already implementing.We also share how attending conferences like these continues to shape our thinking at HETRA, including a few policy updates prompted by ongoing learning and a commitment to evolving with best practices in the field.Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

150. The Next Generation of EAS Leaders: What do they want?

In this episode, we welcome back Jeff Arnold, Founder of Leadership Adventures, for a powerful conversation about what it really takes to build the next generation of leaders in the EAS industry. Expect to here more on:When we talk about “next generation leaders,” we’re talking about all of us. What the Next Generation of EAL Leaders Actually WantsAfter surveying and working with more than 60 centers, Jeff and his team have identified clear patterns in what emerging leaders are looking for:Clear expectations (at both the big-picture and daily-task level)Coaching and developmental feedbackDefined growth paths and career planningAuthentic community and collaborationCuriosity builds engagement. Judgment shuts it down.Staying Resilient Leadership in a Changing World. With leadership transitions happening across 20-, 30-, and 40-year-old centers, resilience isn’t optional—it’s essential.Resources:The EAL Community of Practice Jeff shares more about the growing EAL Community of Practice, an online professional space designed for collaboration, CEUs, shared learning, and authentic dialogue across methodologies. Learn more at:   equineassistedlearning.org2026 EAL Summit – Learn. Share. Lead. The next EAL Summit will take place in November 2026 in the Western Pennsylvania mountains. Abstract submissions are open now through mid-to-late March. More details:  equineassistedlearning.orgListen to the NJAPR episode 87 with Jeff here:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/1jzeTIwz1WIFKQ4bZoxyFA?si=Rmi3hLc3Qjyr4NSr14CcwAJoin us for HETRA University Live online or in person March 6-7:   https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HULStridesForward