<![CDATA[CARLY KADE CREATIVE: FOR THE LOVE OF HORSE BOOKS

<![CDATA[CARLY KADE CREATIVE: FOR THE LOVE OF HORSE BOOKS - Blog]]>Fri, 01 May 2026 17:39:43 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Episode 123: On Being a Writing Parent, The Power of an Hour & Author Partnerships with Jennifer S. Kelly (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-123-on-being-a-writing-parent-the-power-of-an-hour-author-partnerships-with-jennifer-s-kelly-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 123: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this episode, Jennifer S. Kelly returns to the show. Saddle up for a candid conversation about parenting while writing, the creative power of an hour alone, and why reaching out to fellow authors is a path to success.

Watch Jennifer S. Kelly's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Author Jennifer S. Kelly

Jennifer is an author and freelance turf writer. Her first two books, Sir Barton and the Making of the Triple Crown and The Foxes of Belair: Gallant Fox, Omaha, and the Quest for the Triple Crown, chronicle the lives and careers of the first three American Triple Crown winners.

Jennifer also contributes to The Racing Biz, America's Best Racing, and TwinSpires Edge. Jennifer's work focuses on both the history of horse racing as well as current events, drawing on her deep knowledge and experience to share stories of the names and faces of this great sport.

About The Foxes of Belair

Sir Barton and Foxes of Belair Books by Jennifer S. Kelly

Calumet, Claiborne, King Ranch—these iconic names are among the owners and breeders revered by Thoroughbred industry professionals and racing fans around the world. As campaigners of many of the 20th century's top racehorses, their prestige has been confirmed by decades of competition in the Triple Crown, the most esteemed series in American Thoroughbred racing. Even with these substantial legacies, their success is measured against the benchmark set by one of racing's earliest dynasties, the historic Belair Stud.

The story of this legendary operation began with William Woodward's childhood memories of grand days at the racetrack, inspiring dreams of breeding a champion or two of his own. During a year working for the American Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Woodward frequented English racetracks, rekindling that childhood dream of breeding and owning champion Thoroughbreds. Woodward turned those dreams into reality, building Belair Stud on his family's Maryland estate, launching what would become the preeminent Thoroughbred breeding and racing empire in America and chasing racing's biggest prizes in both the United States and England.

The defining moment for Belair came when Woodward bred the imported stallion Sir Gallahad III to his mare Marguerite. Their colt, Gallant Fox, became only the second horse in history to win the Preakness Stakes, the Kentucky Derby, and the Belmont Stakes in the same year. In 1935, the farm cemented the Triple Crown as the gold standard for three-year-olds when Gallant Fox's son, Omaha, duplicated his sire's trio of victories, a sweep that sealed the farm's legacy and carved its name in the annals of racing history.

In The Foxes of Belair: Gallant Fox, Omaha, and the Quest for the Triple Crown, Jennifer Kelly examines the racing legacies of Gallant Fox and Omaha and how William Woodward's service to racing during the 20th century forever changed the landscape of the American Thoroughbred industry.

About Sir Barton and the Making of the Triple Crown

He was always destined to be a champion. Royally bred, with English and American classic winners in his pedigree, Sir Barton shone from birth, dubbed the “king of them all.” But after a winless two-year-old season and a near-fatal illness, uncertainty clouded the start of Sir Barton’s three-year-old season. Then his surprise victory in America’s signature race, the Kentucky Derby, started him on the road to history, where he would go on to dominate the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes, completing America’s first Triple Crown.

His wins inspired the ultimate chase for greatness in American horse racing and established an elite group that would grow to include legends like Citation, Secretariat, and American Pharoah. After a series of dynamic wins in 1920, popular opinion tapped Sir Barton as the best challenger for the wonder horse Man o’ War, and demanded a match race to settle once and for all which horse was the greatest. That duel would cement the reputation of one horse for all time and diminish the reputation of the other for the next century—until now.

Sir Barton and the Making of the Triple Crown is the first book to focus on Sir Barton, his career, and his historic impact on horse racing. Jennifer S. Kelly uses extensive research and historical sources to examine this champion’s life and achievements. Kelly charts how Sir Barton broke track records, scored victories over other champions, and sparked the yearly pursuit of Triple Crown glory.

Connect with Jennifer S. Kelly

Website: https://jenniferkellywrites.com/
Sir Barton Blog: https://thesirbartonproject.com/
Gallant Fox Blog: https://foxesofbelair.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferkellywrites/
Sir Barton Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSirBarton
Gallant Fox Twitter: https://twitter.com/foxesofbelair
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkellyedits/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/smileypv

Want More Equestrian Author Interviews?

Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast hosted by Carly Kade

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About Author & Host Carly Kade

Photo by Shelley Paulson Photography

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly writes her novels with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are the perfect escape for equestrians who love settling down with a good book at the beach, in the tub, or in bed after a day of horseback riding.

Carly's books are available in paperback, ebook and audiobook. Rope your next read here: https://books2read.com/ap/8N55WD/Carly-Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 122: On Writing Thousand Word Stories, Magical Moments & Realizing Dreams with Kathy Simmers (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 21:20:33 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-122-on-writing-thousand-word-stories-magical-moments-realizing-dreams-with-kathy-simmers-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 122: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this episode, you'll meet author Kathy Simmers and hear the inspiring true story behind her book Jump the Moon. Saddle up for a conversation about magical moments, leaning into the pursuit of a dream, writing strong stories in a thousand words, and building intuition through horses.

Watch Kathy Simmers' Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Author Kathy Simmers

Kathy Simmers Author of Jump the Moon and Posey's Promise

Kathy dreamed of living on horse farm as long as she can remember. She didn’t grow up in a horse family, so as a child horse related opportunities often amounted to pony rides at a local fair or even the mechanical horse at the grocery store. Saturday morning TV with Roy Rogers, Fury and My Friend Flicka was the highlight of her week. And of course she coveted any horse book she could get her hands on, Black Beauty, Misty of Chicoteague, The Black Stallion.

Author Kathy Simmers & Lexi

At twelve years old she started taking riding lessons and at nineteen she bought her first horse. That experience with Sinbad, a testy bay gelding, was as magical as she expected and she thought she was well on her way to the farm she always dreamed of, but life had other plans. When Kathy found herself a single mom of two and was forced to rehome her heart horse and put her horse farm dream on the shelf.

Horses came back into her life when her daughter started riding at the age of 12 with Merilee Ventura of ByWay Farms, the same trainer that Kathy had ridden with herself all those years ago.

About Jump the Moon by Kathy Simmers

Jump the Moon Children's Horse Book by Kathy Simmers

Jump the Moon, Kathy’s first children’s book is based on the true story of her daughter (the girl with the long blonde hair) and the unbelievable bond she developed with her pony (Me Too).

Witnessing their story was initially exciting, at times heartbreaking and ultimately one of the most inspiring experiences she has ever known. It was so inspiring in fact that it is why today Kathy lives in North Carolina on the horse farm that she always dreamed of, where she is currently working on her second book.

She hopes that by sharing Jump the Moon readers will learn the importance of trusting your heart, following your dreams and never putting limits on what is possible.

Coming Soon! Posey's Problem by Kathy Simmers

In their newest collaboration, Marjorie van Heerden's beautiful illustrations bring to life this delightful story by Kathy Simmers, author of Jump the Moon.

Posey is a show pony who has a big problem. No matter how hard she works, no matter how many times she wins or how much she loves her kids, the problem will always be there. Yet despite her problem, Posey continues to do everything with her whole heart.

Posey is a champion through and through, and her story comes with powerful lessons about persevering through change, keeping your heart open, and the enduring power of love.

Posey's Problem is a heartwarming true story about the bond between a girl and her pony that will teach readers, young and old, about the importance of trusting your heart, following your dreams, and never putting limits on what is possible.

Learn more about Kathy Simmers and her books at https://www.readjumpthemoon.com/

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

Carly Kade Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

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About Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 121: On Mustang Camp, Falling for Burros & Inspiring Adoptions with Veronica Moore (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Fri, 25 Aug 2023 21:18:42 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-121-on-mustang-camp-falling-for-burros-inspiring-adoptions-with-veronica-moore-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Veronica Moore, Volunteering at Mustang Camp, Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 121: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Veronica Moore. A Mustang Camp Volunteer and Board Member, Veronica joined me on the show to share her adventures with fellow volunteer animal trainers from around the globe who teamed up to write a children's book about a baby burro. The team behind Peabody Gets Adopted originally met while training wild mustangs and burros for the adoption program at Mustang Camp.

Saddle up for a conversation about how love for donkeys inspired an illustrator from France, a photographer from England, and writers in New York City and northern New Mexico to join forces to produce a book about animal adoption.

Watch Veronica Moore's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Mustang Camp

Mustang Camp is a non-profit organization that helps formerly wild animals transition to a life with people. It is operated by volunteers and students, placing 40 to 70 animals a year into private ownership. It works with the Bureau of Land Management, the US Forest Service, and rescue organizations. It is one of the 11 licensed equine rescues in New Mexico and directed by Dr. Patricia Barlow-Irick, Ph.D.

About Peabody Gets Adopted

Peabody, the baby burro, tells the story of his young life at Mustang Camp. His mother was captured in the wild and they are learning the ways of people and looking forward to being adopted. Based on real animals, Peabody's story raises awareness of animal adoption.

It’s a classic tale of growing up and finding your place in the world, through the eyes of Peabody, a baby donkey born at Mustang Camp.

A wild but very strict mother, a zebra, and the best playmate ever help anxious little Peabody find his way to a forever home. This heart-warming story will help young readers understand animal adoption. Photos of the actual animals in the story add to the beautiful watercolor illustrations that were started in New Mexico but finished in Paris, France.

Peabody Gets Adopted is available on Amazon.com or from the Mustang Camp store. Gifting this endearing book supports equine rescue and encourages the young people in your life to have empathy for animals.

Learn more about Mustang Camp

Website: https://www.mustangcamp.org/mustang-camp-home
Store: https://www.mustangcamp.org/mustang-camp-store
Newsletter: https://www.mustangcamp.org/around-the-campfire
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MustangCamp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mustang.camp/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MustangCamp/videos

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About Host & Author Carly Kade

Carly Kade, In the Reins book series author and host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast

Photo Credit: Shelley Paulson Photography

In the Reins books series by author Carly Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 120: On Horses Healing Trauma, Living with PTSD & Generating Awareness with Cheryl L. Eriksen (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:41:10 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-120-on-horses-healing-trauma-living-with-ptsd-generating-awareness-with-cheryl-l-eriksen-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Cheryl L. Eriksen Follow Me Friend Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 120: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Cheryl L. Eriksen. Cheryl is the author of the award-winning memoir, Follow Me, Friend, a true story about her struggle with undiagnosed PTSD and the healing power received through the special connection she shares with her mare, Farletta.

Saddle up for a moving conversation about living with post-traumatic stress disorder—and healing through the power of the horse-human relationship.

Watch Cheryl L. Eriksen's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Author Cheryl L. Eriksen

Cheryl is an author and blogger who has been involved in multiple areas of the horse industry for over twenty-five years. A student of equine behavior and communication, she has experience as a horse midwife, equine assisted therapy facilitator, veterinary assistant, and horse trainer.

Cheryl's other creative endeavors include the blog, Peace Horse Journey, which explores her concept of horse-guided self-discovery and how equine behavior can be influenced by what the human brings to the relationship.

She also writes the Sputter Moo Breyers blog which dives into the stories and history of the model horses in her collection, and the real horses they represent.

Cheryl currently spends half the year working as a horse midwife, delivering foals and caring for mares and their newborns for various Thoroughbred farms in Central Kentucky. In the off season, she focuses on her writing, book events, and speaking engagements.

About Follow Me, Friend by Cheryl L. Eriksen

Follow Me Friend - A memoir about living with PTSD by Cheryl L. Eriksen

Follow Me, Friend is the true story of a young woman dealing with the daily struggles of living with undiagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder—and the healing she receives through the power of the horse-human relationship.

Told through her experiences of suffering the effects of childhood sexual abuse while having no conscious memory of the abuse, Cheryl walks the reader through a life in which she believes she is crazy, and she has the voices in her mind to prove it. Spiraling deeper into depression and plagued by a destructive inner voice that takes on a personality all its own, Cheryl sees only one way out, permanently.

That is, until a small, thin, scraggly horse comes into her life and changes everything.

About the Sequel I've Never Been to Me

Follow Me Friend Sequel by Cheryl L. Eriksen

Cheryl has spent her entire life searching for purpose, something to give her life meaning, that one elusive piece that will finally make her feel complete. Instead, she sinks ever deeper into a black-hole life defined by toxic relationships and an inability to see her own worth. The childhood trauma she thought she’d healed from still lurks in the shadows, pulling the strings, making all the decisions.

Farletta, Cheryl’s longtime horse companion, has the uncanny ability to see into Cheryl’s soul. The mare can look within, touch the broken parts, and bring them to the surface, where they can be healed. Farletta had already saved Cheryl’s life once—can she do it again?

From the author of Follow Me, Friend comes this touching, unforgettable story of one woman’s spiritual journey, a remarkable horse-human bond, and the unconditional self-acceptance that can only come when we courageously look within and learn to love ourselves.

Connect with Cheryl L. Eriksen

Author Cheryl L.Eriksen and her horse Farletta

Website:
www.followmefriendbook.com
Blogs:
www.peacehorsejourney.wordpress.com
www.sputtermoobreyers.wordpress.com
Facebook pages:
https://www.facebook.com/followmefriend
https://www.facebook.com/CherylLEriksenAuthor
https://www.facebook.com/PathOfThePeaceHorse
Sign up for Cheryl's newsletter for updates:
http://eepurl.com/h3boSr

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Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast Carly Kade

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo by Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 119: On Youthful Passions, Where Imagination Dwells & the Gift of Pause with Sarah V. Barnes (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sun, 28 May 2023 00:00:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-119-on-youthful-passions-where-imagination-dwells-the-gift-of-pause-with-sarah-v-barnes-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Sarah V. Barnes She who rides horses book

Episode 119: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this episode, you'll meet Sarah V. Barnes. Sarah is both a historian and a horsewoman. When she is not writing stories, she practices and teaches riding as a meditative art. She also offers equine-facilitated coaching and wellness workshops. Sarah holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University and spent many years as a college professor before turning full-time to riding and writing.

Saddle up for a serendipitous conversation about pursuing youthful passions, shifting when you think the universe is saying no, leaning into the pause, and seeking the spaces where imagination dwells.

Watch Sarah V. Barnes' Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About She Who Rides Horses by Sarah V. Barnes

Sarah V. Barnes Author of She Who Rides Horses

Set more than 6,000 years ago, She Who Rides Horses: A Saga of the Ancient Steppe (Book One) begins the story of Naya, the first person to ride a horse. Daughter of a clan chief, bolder than the other girls but shunned by the boys because of her unusual appearance,

Naya wanders alone through the vast grasslands where her people herd cattle and hunt wild horses for their meat. But Naya dreams of creating a different kind of relationship with the magnificent creatures. One day, she discovers a filly with a chestnut coat as uncommon as her own head of red hair.

With time running out before she is called to assume the responsibilities of adulthood, Naya embarks on a quest to gallop with the filly across the boundless steppe. Unwittingly, she sets in motion forces and events that will change forever the future of humans and horses alike.

Based on extensive interdisciplinary research, She Who Rides Horses imagines an encounter between a girl and a horse that is both timeless and grounded in fact.

Connect with Sarah V. Barnes

Website: www.sarahvbarnes.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shewhorideshorses

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo by Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 118: On Serendipitous Journeys, Interspecies Connections & Seeking Synchronicity with Nancy Lee Gerson (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:10:21 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-118-on-serendipitous-journeys-interspecies-connections-seeking-synchronicity-with-nancy-lee-gerson-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Nancy Lee Gerson Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 118: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Nancy Lee Gerson. Nancy is a certified Equine Gestalt Coach who partners with her herd of horses to help people deepen their self-awareness, heal from long-buried wounds, and reignite their passion for life.

Her memoir, The Horse Who Changed My Life: My Serendipitous Journey through Equus, is a heartfelt story documenting the life-changing, serendipitous journey of a New York City lawyer who learned how to deepen her capacity to connect to the wisdom of her heart through horses.

Saddle up for an inspiring conversation about the life-changing power of horses, embracing serendipitous journeys, leaning into interspecies connections, and seeking synchronicities.

Watch Nancy Lee Gerson's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Nancy Lee Gerson

Nancy Lee Gerson is a certified Equine Gestalt Coach who partners with her herd of horses to help people deepen their self-awareness, heal from long-buried wounds, and reignite their passion for life. She enjoys practicing Reiki and telepathic interspecies communication with her animal relatives as well as the squirrels and deer that frequent her rural property in Upstate New York.

With limited horse riding experience, and no formal equestrian training, native New York attorney, Nancy Lee Gerson, travelled to Colorado on a whim, to attend a women's retreat with horses. She spent five days riding and communing with a special horse named Cherokee, who became the ambassador for Nancy's life-changing, serendipitous journey, guided by interspecies connections and inspiring synchronicities.

She is a contributing writer in Touched by a Horse Equine Coaching Stories, Volume 1, and a former student of twenty-three years at the School of Practical Philosophy in New York City. She is currently working on her next book!

Her memoir will rekindle the reader's innate awareness of the meaningful serendipities presented by life. Learn how one woman deepened her capacity to connect to the wisdom of her heart and to the ancient wisdom of Equus.

The Horse Who Changed My Life book by Nancy Lee Gerson

Connect with Nancy Lee Gerson

Website: nancyleegerson.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHorseWhoChangedMyLife
Facebook Group: Horse-Human-Spirit: A Triad
Instagram: @nancyleeg8
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Nancy_Lee_Gerson

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 117: On A Philosophy for Living an Authentic & Transparent Life with Mary S. Corning (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sun, 26 Mar 2023 22:35:28 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-117-on-a-philosophy-for-living-an-authentic-transparent-life-with-mary-s-corning-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 117: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this episode, you'll meet Mary S. Corning. Mary changes lives by defining the transformative power of pain. As a mentor, speaker, life consultant and writer, she clearly and compassionately models this process through her messages and stories.

Mary extends her philosophy into her world of horses, where both people and horses benefit from realizing a different way to interpret challenges. Great teachers have offered support and blessings that caused a shift in her perception. That shift, in turn, changed her world.

Saddle up for a conversation about how Mary navigated through addiction and codependency, the way her education in life expanded when she met her teacher Ray Hunt, and how we can all learn that we are enough.

Watch Mary S. Corning's Interview on YouTube

Or Listen to the Audio Version

About Mary S. Corning

Mary Corning lives in the foothills of the Oregon Coast Range Mountains. She is an author, consultant, horse advocate, mentor and retreat facilitator. Mary enjoys a diverse yet simple and natural lifestyle. Falling in love in 2012, she became a wife and (step) mom.

Through her book and her practice Mary focuses on real life experience. Her work is based on experiential practice rather than intellectual belief. Mary encourages personal inquiry as a means to uncover hidden patterns. Removing resistance and finding freedom of expression is a cornerstone in Mary’s work. The application for this life-enhancing work is delivered in many varied environments, such as private personal sessions, horse sessions, personal retreats, group seminars and workshops.

Mary is an award-winning author, published journalist and dedicated practitioner. She has been interviewed on radio and podcasts and enjoys candid and authentic discussions. Mary’s book Perfect Practice won the Winnie award for ‘Most Inspirational’ at the December, 2022 Equus Film, Art and Literature Festival.

As a self-created business woman her entire adult life, Mary built and maintained her own horse facility where she hosted clinics, boarded horses and taught horsemanship for 20 years. She then extended her work into human wellness early in the year 2000, when she began offering private sessions and retreats.

Mary considers herself a student of the soul. Her passion and inspiration has always come from living close to nature and with her horses.

About Perfect Practice by Mary S. Corning

Mary S. Corning Perfect Practice Horse Book

Perfect Practice: A Philosophy for Living an Authentic and Transparent Life explores how we can shift our perspective and change our world. Life can be exceptionally gratifying when we realize that our thoughts create our interactions and our interactions create our relationships. To truly relate is what living is all about.

This book is meant as a seed. Its message offers inspiration for living an authentic and transparent life. As a resource for life, it unites what is seen as separate and heals what is wounded.

Readers will learn how to transform:

Pain into purpose
Conflict into confidence
Fear into curiosity
These are the shifts we can make to build a better life and a better world in which to live.

Perfect Practice will inspire, delight, encourage and expand your awareness. The stories will make you laugh and make you cry – but always with the purpose of a greater understanding. In this book the author shares her toughest life lessons – stories of turmoil and of triumph.

Connect with Mary S. Corning

Website: https://marycorning.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarySCorningLifeCoach

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelly Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 116: On Grand Prix Dressage & Doing What's Right for Aging Horses with Caroline Akervik (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:41:11 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-116-on-grand-prix-dressage-doing-whats-right-for-aging-horses-with-caroline-akervik-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Caroline Akervik with her Grand Prix horse Banjo. They were long listed for '96 Olympics.

Episode 116: In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Caroline Akervik. Saddle up for a conversation about what it's like to compete at the Grand Prix level in dressage, horses as works of art, and how we can do right by our aging horses.

Watch Caroline Akervik's Interview on YouTube

Or listen to the audio version

Caroline has always been a voracious reader of most any genre. Blessed with a wonderful husband and three amazing grown children, Caroline grew up fox hunting in the Maryland countryside and then rode and trained to Grand Prix level of Dressage.

Now a school librarian, she remains an animal lover and believes that libraries are among the most magical of places. Her writings reflect the eclectic nature of her life and reading taste, and her books include sweet romances, horse stories and even science fiction.

Caroline Akervik with FEI horse, Providence, a St George I1 horse.

She wrote a horse story entitled A Horse Named Viking., and the second book in the trilogy, My Golden Horse, was released by Fire and Ice, YA, an imprint of Melange Books.

Caroline seeks to write from the heart, to transport her readers and to give wings to their imaginations.

About My Golden Horse by Caroline Akervik

Ellen Sanz is angry at the world, and she wants nothing to do with horses. Before her mother’s accident, they’d had a great life. Her mother, Linda, was a successful show jumper. Ellen had attended virtual school, and they’d travelled between international horse competitions.

Everything had changed when Linda suffered a catastrophic riding accident. Ellen has been her mother’s caretaker in the year since. They’ve been forced to move to Linda’s parents’ hobby farm in the Maryland countryside.

Here, Ellen finds herself irresistibly drawn to Lemon Meringue, nicknamed Tandy, a show ring sour palomino rescue mare, as well as to Joel, a cute and horse crazy guy.

Can Ellen and Tandy let go of the pain of their pasts to embrace a new life and find that special connection?

Connect with Caroline Akervik

Caroline Akervik riding her mother's former Nat'l Champion, New Ladykiller.

Blog: http://carolineakervik.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HorseNamedViking
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c_akervik/
Twitter: @CAkervik
Pinterest: Caroline Akervik - author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Caroline_Akervik

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo Credit: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 115: On Women Writing the West, Disrupting Distraction & Synergy with Corinne Joy Brown (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sun, 08 Jan 2023 23:04:01 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-115-on-women-writing-the-west-disrupting-distraction-synergy-with-corinne-joy-brown-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Corinne Joy Brown Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast Interview

Episode 115: In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet cowgirl Corinne Joy Brown.

She is a Denver native who loves history, especially the American West, the story of the Jewish people, and the cultures of the greater Southwest. A partner in a high-end home furnishings and design firm, she’s also a published author and freelance journalist with frequent by-lines in local and national publications.

Saddle up for a conversation about living the western lifestyle, one woman's incredible adventures writing about the West, disrupting distraction & looking for synergies in our creative lives.

Watch Corinne Joy Brown's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

Connect with Corinne Joy Brown

Websites:
https://corinnejoybrown.com/
https://www.mustangcurly.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corinne.j.brown
Instagram: @corinnejoybrown

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 114: On Sgt. Reckless: The Mighty Marine & America's War Horse with Robin Hutton (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Fri, 25 Nov 2022 21:05:38 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-114-on-sgt-reckless-the-mighty-marine-americas-war-horse-with-robin-hutton-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Robin Hutton Sgt. Reckless Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 114: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Robin Hutton, author of Sgt. Reckless: America's War Horse. Saddle up for a conversation about animals in service, gratitude, and staying on the path toward our dreams.

Watch Robin Hutton's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Robin Hutton

Robin Hutton has spent her adult life working in major event productions and the motion picture business. She was the writing and producing partner of Tom “Billy Jack” Laughlin for over thirty years until his death in 2013.

Currently she is President of Angels Without Wings, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation that spearheaded the development and dedication of six national monuments to Sgt. Reckless, the famous Korean War horse.

Her first book, Sgt. Reckless: America‘s War Horse, was a New York Times Bestseller, as well as the 2015 Equine Book of the Year from American Horse Publications, and a 2016 Gold Medal winner from Military Writers Society of America.

Her latest book, War Animals: The Unsung Heroes of World War II, was a 2019 Gold Medal winner from Military Writers Society of America. The heroes in this book inspired a new project, the Animals in War & Peace Medal of Bravery and Distinguished Service Medals.

The inaugural ceremony for this medal was held on November 14, 2019 in Washington, DC on Capitol Hill. This ceremony also launched the Animals In War & Peace Museum - a traveling museum to commemorate these war animals who fought side-by-side with our military war heroes.

About Sgt. Reckless: America's War Horse

Sgt. Reckless Monument Cowgirl Hall of Fame

The Sgt. Reckless Monument at the Cowgirl Hall of Fame

She wasn't a horse—she was a Marine.

She might not have been much to look at—a small "Mongolian mare," they called her—but she came from racing stock, and had the blood of a champion. Much more than that, Reckless became a war hero—in fact, she became a combat Marine, earning staff sergeant's stripes before her retirement to Camp Pendleton.

This once famous horse, recognized as late as 1997 by Life Magazine as one of America's greatest heroes—the greatest war horse in American history, in fact—has unfortunately now been largely forgotten. But author Robin Hutton is set to change all that.

Not only has she been the force behind recognizing Reckless with a monument at the National Museum of the Marine Corps and at Camp Pendleton, but she has now recorded the full story of this four-legged war hero who hauled ammunition to embattled Marines and inspired them with her relentless, and reckless, courage.

Watch the Sgt. Reckless Book Trailer

Connect with Robin Hutton

Robin Hutton Author of Sgt Reckless America's War Horse

Websites:
https://RobinHutton.com
https://SgtReckless.com
https://AnimalsInWarAndPeace.org
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/robin.hutton.5
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sgtreckless
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sgtreckless_52/
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-hutton-36b66637/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/RobinHutton

Watch Robin & Carly at the Equus Film Festival

I met such fabulous horse people at the EQUUS Film Festival, but most of all, I loved meeting fellow equestrian authors who I can now call friends. We had fun galloping around New York City together and exchanging writing/publishing/marketing tips for horse books during the fest!

Here's my top 5 moments: https://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/the-equus-film-festival-top-5-moments

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

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About Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 113: On Revisiting a Series, Awards & Dude Ranch Research Trips with Valerie Ormond (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sun, 06 Nov 2022 23:35:01 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-113-on-revisiting-a-series-awards-dude-ranch-research-trips-with-valerie-ormond-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Valerie Ormond Believing in Horses Books Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 113: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, Valerie Ormond, author of the Believing in Horses series, returns to the show. Saddle up for a conversation on revisiting a series after a seven year break, the importance of winning awards, and how trips to various dude ranches inspired her to write her newest book, Believing in Horses Out West.

Watch Valerie Ormond's Interview on YouTube!

Or Listen to the Audio Version.

About Valerie Ormond

Valerie Ormond retired as a Navy Captain after a 25-year career as a Naval intelligence officer and then founded her own business, Veteran Writing Services, LLC, providing companies and organizations professional writing, editing, and consulting services.

Valerie’s first two novels, Believing In Horses, and Believing In Horses, Too, won eight national and international awards including Gold Medals in the Military Writers Society of America book awards. Her most recent novel, Believing In Horses Out West, won first place in the National Federation of Press Women’s at-large communication contest and is currently being judged in the national competition.

Her fiction and non-fiction stories and poems have been published in eight books, and her articles have appeared internationally in magazines, newspapers, and blogs.

About Believing in Horses Out West

Valerie Ormond Believing in Horses Books

Sadie Navarro rescued a mare from an auction accomplishing what she thought was the most important mission of her young life. Now, that mare is headed to a ranch in Montana and a home Sadie knows nothing about.

She wants to make sure the horse is in good hands, but Montana is far away and a different world from Maryland. Will fourteen-year-old Sadie need to stand up to rugged cowboys to protect her special rescue horse?

Read Valerie's article in Sidelines magazine about the young woman who inspired Believing in Horses: https://sidelinesmagazine.com/sidelines-feature/jessica-groen-a-lucky-call-to-serve.html

Believing in Horses Out West Book Trailer

Connect with Valerie Ormond

Website: https://believinginhorses.com/
Blog: https://valerieormond.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BelievingInHorses/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/believeinhorses
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieormond/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/valeriebih
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Valerie_Ormond

Listen to Valerie's First Interview on the Show!

Resources Mentioned in the Interview

Horsepower Technologies Braces
Rehabilitative Medical Device for Equine Lameness / Horsepower Technologies

Christine Horner – Open Book Design
Book Cover Design, Book Design, Self-Publishing - Open Book Design

Red Rock Ride
Red Rock Ride

AutoCrit Blog Post
Editing with AutoCrit – Valerie Ormond's Thoughts

Plottr Review
Plottr Review (2021 Pros and Cons) – by P.J McNulty… – Valerie Ormond's Thoughts

Tim Cox Fine Art
https://www.timcox.com/

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About Host and Author Carly Kade

Photo by Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 112: On Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew's First Champion with Mary Perdue (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sat, 15 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-112-on-landaluce-the-story-of-seattle-slews-first-champion-with-mary-perdue-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Mary Perdue Landaluce Book Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 112: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, you'll meet Mary Perdue, author of Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew's First Champion.

Watch Mary Perdue's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew's First Champion

When Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew retired from racing in 1978 to stand at stud at Spendthrift Farm, no one could be certain he would be a successful sire.

But just four years later, his dark bay daughter Landaluce won the Hollywood Lassie Stakes by twenty-one lengths—a margin of victory that remains the largest ever in any race by a two-year-old at Hollywood Park. California horse racing had a new superstar, and Slew was launched on a stud career that would make him one of the most influential sires in North America.

Like her father, Landaluce soon became a national celebrity, and was poised to become the next American super-horse. But those dreams ended when the two-year-old died in her stall at Santa Anita four months later, the victim of a swift and mysterious illness. Today, with her "I Love Luce" bumper stickers long gone, the filly has been largely forgotten.

Landaluce Seattle Stew's Filly by Mary Perdue

In Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew's First Champion, Mary Perdue tells the story of a horse whose short but meteoric career could have changed racing history forever. Sparking comparisons to Ruffian, Landaluce helped elevate California horse racing to the national stage and could have been the first filly to ever win the Triple Crown.

In telling this story, Perdue explores the lives and careers of Landaluce's breeders, owners, and trainer, D. Wayne Lukas, as well as her famous sire Seattle Slew—and shows not only how one filly captured the imagination of racing fans across the country, but also set the stage for another filly turned super-horse, Zenyatta, in the decades to come.

Connect with Mary Perdue

Mary Perdue Author of Landaluce Seattle Slew's First Champion

Website: www.landalucebook.com
Twitter: @maryperdue
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.perdue.908
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-perdue-39527720/

Watch the Book Trailer!

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

Visit the Episode Directory

About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 111: On Morgan Horses, Trauma Sensitivity & Writing Richness with Karen Gross (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Sun, 25 Sep 2022 22:37:17 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-111-on-morgan-horses-trauma-sensitivity-writing-richness-with-karen-gross-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 111: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Karen Gross, author of the Lady Lucy's Quest children's book series.

Karen Gross is an educator, author and artist. A former professor, college president and senior policy advisor to the US Dept. of Education, she currently teaches at Rutgers School of Social Work. She specializes in trauma and its impact on individuals and organizations with an emphasis on student success and leadership in a time of crisis.

She writes a book series for children titled Lady Lucy's Quest that is trauma sensitive; to date, she has read to more than 3,500 children across the globe. In the interview, Karen talks about her newest book in the series, Lady Lucy's Morgan Horse Quest. It's a story that inspires us all to believe in each other and the power of the possible.

Saddle up for a conversation about Morgan horses, trauma sensitivity, and the richness of writing.

Watch Karen Gross' Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Lady Lucy's Morgan Horse Quest

In the new book in the Lady Lucy series, Lady Lucy and her team are introduced to a magnificent Morgan horse given to them by Sir Winston, the oldest and wisest knight. Lady Lucy, her team and Morgan go on a journey to try to restore joy and happiness to the village which has experienced a terrible winter, social isolation and food shortages.

In the process of unlocking the decades old mystery, the team develops a deep sense of friendship with Morgan, and they are able to renew the villagers happiness and sense of hope.

This is a story that can be read by and read to children of all ages with stunning illustrations. Lady Lucy's Morgan Horse Quest allows our imaginations to be ignited and inspires us all to believe in each other and the power of the possible.

Connect with Karen Gross

Websites:
karengrosseducation.com
https://ladylucysquest.com/
Twitter: @KarenGrossEdu
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengrossedu/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/karen.gross.790
Instagram: @karengross2154

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About Host & Author Carly Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 110: On Long Riding the Midwest, Saddle Anatomy & Overcoming Loss with Lisa D. Stewart (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Tue, 30 Aug 2022 01:00:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-110-on-long-riding-the-midwest-saddle-anatomy-overcoming-loss-with-lisa-d-stewart-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Lisa D. Stewart Author of The Big Quiet One Woman's Horseback Ride Home

Episode 110: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Lisa D. Stewart, author of The Big Quiet: One Woman's Horseback Ride Home.

Lisa discusses the 500-mile solo horseback trip she undertook at the age of 54 on her horse, Chief. As a woman alone, with one horse, traveling through the Midwest, she was forced to face the pain of her past, embrace the beauty of the present, and envision an empowered future for herself.

Lisa's epic journey of self-discovery inspired her to document modern rural America's people, animals, and land, which ultimately led to the publication of her memoir.

Saddle up for a conversation about long riding a horse alone across the Midwest, overcoming the past and saddle anatomy discoveries.

Watch Lisa D. Stewart's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Lisa D. Stewart

Lisa D. Stewart is the author of The Big Quiet—One Woman’s Horseback Ride Home, which is a memoir about a 500-mile solo horseback trip she took at the age of 54 in 2012 on her horse, Chief.

Her first trip, 3,000 miles over seven-and-a-half months with her former husband in 1982 gave her the skills and courage to finally take the trip she had dreamed about since she was a girl—alone, with one horse, through the Midwest. The Big Quiet won the Thorpe Menn Award and was a finalist for the High Plains Book Award in 2022.

Lisa D. Stewart The Big Quiet One Woman's Horseback Ride Home

Lisa also is a poet and commercial writer in Prairie Village, Kansas, and she specializes in research and business planning for agriculture companies and urban nonprofit organizations.

Between 1984 and 1999, she and her former husband created and grew Ortho-Flex Saddle Company, after their 3,000-mile horseback trip with five horses taught them about the relationship between saddles and the biomechanics and soundness of the horse. The couple produced and sold more than 25,000 patented saddles with accessories in more than 30 countries.

Lisa D. Stewart and Chief

She has published more than 100 articles on that topic of saddle fit. She currently is completing a book about the relationship between saddles, equine biomechanics, and proper palpation techniques for soreness.

She has two grown children in Kansas City and lives with her husband, Robert Stewart, editor emeritus of New Letters Magazine at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, and their dog, Paddy.

Connect with Lisa D. Stewart

Website: https://lisadstewart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisastewartbooks/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LisaStewart

Buy the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Quiet-Womans-Horseback-Ride/

Lisa is available for speaking engagements. She provides services free to clubs and stables in the Kansas City region and with travel expenses paid for groups outside the area.

She will come to trail rides and also teach riders how to palpate horses’ backs for soreness caused by saddles, something even veterinarians and equine physical therapists and chiropractors are often not taught.

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About Host and Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 109: On Travel Writing, Salvation in Nature & Romancing the Soul with Linda Ballou (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Fri, 12 Aug 2022 01:28:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-109-on-travel-writing-salvation-in-nature-romancing-the-soul-with-linda-ballou-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 109: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this episode, you'll meet Linda Ballou, author of the horse books Cowgirl Jumped Over the Moon and Embrace of the Wild.

Saddle up for a conversation about travel writing, finding salvation in nature, and romancing the soul. Linda shares her love of travel, horses and writing while taking us on an epic journey from the volcanoes of Hawaii to the majestic mountains of Colorado.

She discusses her newest book, Embrace of the Wild, a work of historical fiction about Isabella Bird, a dynamic woman, equestrian, and British explorer in the nineteenth century, who pushed the boundaries of what was expected of women in her time.

This interview will inspire you to appreciate the powerful women who paved the way for the modern woman, take the trip that's calling you, notice nature's bounty, and put pen to paper. Linda urges us to remember to take time for romancing our souls along the way.

Watch Linda Ballou's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Linda Ballou

Nothing pleases adventure-travel writer, Linda Ballou, more than seeing gorgeous country from the back of a good horse. Her articles have appeared in EQUUS, Horse Illustrated, California Riding Magazine, and numerous travel publications.

Lost Angel Walk-About is a collection of travel essays about her most meaningful adventures. Her novel The Cowgirl Jumped Over the Moon takes you from the Grand Prix jumping circuit to the high Sierras. This story was the Founder's Choice at the EQUUS Film Fest in 2017.

The Cowgirl Jumped Over the Moon Linda Ballou Book

Her latest release Embrace of the Wild, inspired by the life of equestrian explorer Isabella Bird, takes you to the life-affirming Hawaiian Islands and on to the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

The "Year of the Virus" was a golden opportunity for Linda to write the story of this incredible woman who broke through social and physical barriers to become the best-loved travel writer of her time. (1831-1904). Linda identified strongly with this woman who became the best-loved travel writer of her day and was determined to share her story.

Embrace of the Wild Linda Ballou Isabella Bird Book

In research for her first novel, Wai-nani: A Voice from Old Hawai'i, Linda used Miss Bird's book Six Months in the Sandwich Islands (1873) for vivid details of the Hawaiian Islands. Wai-nani is inspired by the life of Ka'ahumanu, the favorite wife of Kamehameha the Great. It is a poetic rendering of the people of old.

Linda resides in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains in Southern California. She loves exploring the California coast and shares her favorite day trips in her guidebook Lost Angel in Paradise.

Connect with Linda Ballou

Websites:
www.LindaBallouAuthor.com
www.LostAngelAdvenures.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.ballou.52
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LindaBallou
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindaballou/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/LindaBal/featured
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Linda_Ballou

Psst ... Visit Linda's travel website (www.LostAngelAdventures.com) for coupons redeemable for a free audio book of Lost Angel Walkabout, which features several horse adventures in the travel essay collection.

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

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About Your Host and Author Carly Kade

Photo by Shelley Paulson Photography

]]><![CDATA[Episode 108: On Understanding Horse Whorls & Benefits of Trick Training with Noche Miller (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Tue, 26 Jul 2022 20:15:52 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-108-on-understanding-horse-whorls-benefits-of-trick-training-with-noche-miller-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Noche Miller Understanding Horse Whorls Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 108: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Noche Miller, author of Understanding Horse Whorls.

Noche talks us through understanding horse whorls and the benefits of trick training horses. With whorls, her analysis goes beyond the forehead whorl and considers head shape as well as all the other whorls that appear on a horse's body.

She paints a clear picture of what we can tell of the inner workings of the horse by looking at the outside of the body. Once considered folklore, science has caught up and validated the analysis of whorls as an accurate predictor of temperament in horses.

Saddle up for a conversation about understanding horse whorls and incorporating tricks into your horse's training to help you better understand your horse and develop a solid working relationship together.

Psst ... You'll get a glimpse of Noche's skill during a whorl analysis of both my horses on the show!

Watch Noche Miller's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Noche Miller

Noche had been riding horses since before she could walk. Dabbling in every sort of horse activity she could find, she was happy doing anything, as long as it involved horses.

After graduating, Noche loaded up her horse and moved out west, where she spent time doing ranch work. During this time, she started taking in young horses to train. Already a student of whorl theory, she paid attention to the whorls on horses who came in for training. The ones who were easy to start, as well as the tough ones. She added her own notes to the backs of books about whorls and continued her studies.

Watch the Book Trailer!

Now a wife and mother, settled down on the farm, Noche spends more time leading children around on horses than riding herself. She has switched from taking in outside horses to training her own small herd of problem horses to do tricks. She still loves looking at whorls and can reach far more horses virtually than she could ever in person. With the expansion of her whorl studies to the internet came her book Understanding Horse Whorls.

In her ‘spare’ time, after writing and caring for children and cattle, Noche is an instructor with the Horse Tricks Club, a reward based online trick training course. She gets to work with people from all over the world, helping them learn how to teach tricks and build better relationships with their horses.

Connect with Noche Miller

Websites:
horsewhorls.com
horsetricks101.com
cattletricks101.com
Facebook Pages:
Horse Whorl Forum: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWhorls
Horse Tricks 101: https://www.facebook.com/horsetricks
Cattle Tricks 101: https://www.facebook.com/CattleTricks101
Instagram: @horsewhorls

Bonus: Read Noche's write up about my horse's head shapes and whorls on her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWhorls/posts/

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

Visit the Episode Directory

About Your Host and Author Carly Kade

]]><![CDATA[A Sweet Summer Treat: Horse Popsicle Recipe]]>Tue, 19 Jul 2022 23:16:04 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/a-sweet-summer-treat-horse-popsicle-recipe

We've already had record temperatures this summer in Arizona, so I am always on the lookout for ways to keep my horses cool. I knew I had to give horse popsicles a whirl when I heard about them a year or two ago. Now they are a summer staple to help my herd beat the heat.

Horse popsicles are super easy to make. Read on for my 'how to' video and get the horse popsicle recipe, too!

Video Tutorial: How to Make Horse Popsicles

In this video is some funny footage of Tanner getting her first horse popsicle. I've never seen such a HUGE lip curl! I share my horse popsicle recipe in it, too! Beat the heat with this spur jingling horse treat. Horse popsicles are super easy to make.

My Horse Popsicle Recipe

Horse popsicles are easy-peasy! Here's what you do ...

Buy some Gatorade. (You can always opt for the diet version if you're concerned about the sugars in the Gatorade.)
Slice up an apple. Baby carrots are fun to add, too.
Put the Gatorade and the apples/carrots in a plastic container.
Freeze and then feed!

I simply let the Tupperware warm up a bit (in the Arizona heat it doesn't take long) and then the horsey popsicles slip right out. I put the popsicle in their feeders. Sissy and Tanner love them.

P.S. If you board your horses, I recommend putting the horse popsicles in a small cooler for the drive to the barn.

I hope you have fun with my recipe for horse popsicles. Try them on your horses and let me know in the comments what flavor your ponies like best. Sissy and Tanner love the fruit punch horse popsicles! You can make these for your dogs, too. Mine gobble them right up when it's hot out.

Happy Summer,
Carly

About Equestrian Author Carly Kade

Carly with her horses — Sissy & Tanner

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly writes her novels with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are the perfect escape for equestrians who love settling down with a good book at the beach, in the tub, or in bed after a day of horseback riding.

Carly's books are available in paperback, ebook and audiobook. Rope your next summer read here: https://books2read.com/ap/8N55WD/Carly-Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 107: On Audiobooks, Production Best Practices & the Audio Revolution with Brett Wilson (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Wed, 13 Jul 2022 23:51:43 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-107-on-audiobooks-production-best-practices-the-audio-revolution-with-brett-wilson-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Brett Wilson SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 107: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Brett Wilson of SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks.

Brett is in the business of audiobook production from start to finish. His company, SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks, helps authors design, create, produce, publish, market and sell their audiobooks.

Saddle up for a conversation about the audio revolution, audiobook production best practices, and what an author needs to know in order to create a quality audiobook on a budget.

Watch Brett Wilson's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Brett Wilson

Brett Wilson SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks

Brett & Hunkapi

Brett Wilson is the Owner and Creative Director at SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks – a full-service audiobook production company based in Colorado. He is also a Podcast Host and Producer for various businesses and organizations including the Rocky Mountain Channel and Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch.

Melissa (Brett's wife) and her horse Kholo

He and his wife Melissa are passionate about books and all things equestrian! Their favorite Date Nights are spent at Barnes & Noble. When not riding or working with their Mustang - Hunkapi, “Huni”, or Arab - Kholo, they can be found hiking on a trail somewhere in the Rockies with their dogs Milo and Dalia.

About SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks

SkyDance Mountain Audiobooks is a full-service audiobook production company that helps authors design, create, produce, publish, market and sell their audiobooks.

The company offers focused, personalized attention, while providing full-service capabilities, including the following:

Professional Voice-Over Talent to narrate your project or assistance in narrating your own
Royalty-free original music and sound effects
Full recording, editing, mixing and mastering capabilities
Graphic Design
Manufacturing and replication resources for CDs & DVDs
Digital downloads available in mp3, wav, aiff and more
Uploading your project to ACX for sale on Amazon
Uploading your project to Findaway Voices Marketplace
Creative marketing options, ideas and solutions, including Book Trailers & Meet the Author Videos

Connect with Brett Wilson & SkyDance Mountain

Website: https://skydancemountainaudiobooks.com/
Mountain Zen Den podcast (Connecting with Nature for mindfulness & personal growth); https://www.mountainzenden.com/
Blog: https://skydancemountainaudiobooks.com/blog
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skydancemountainaudiobooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smaudiobooks/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-wilson

Directory for more equine author interviews!

Thank you for joining us this week on the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast I hope you enjoy these Q&A sessions with wonderful equine authors who love all things horses and writing, just like me.

About Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

Carly Kade's books are available in paperback, ebook and audiobook. Rope your audiobooks narrated by the talented Amanda Lamb (as mentioned in the interview) here: https://books2read.com/ap/8N55WD/Carly-Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 106: On Mystery, Thrills, Horses & A Touch of the Supernatural with Valerie Power (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Wed, 29 Jun 2022 22:22:19 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-106-on-mystery-thrills-horses-a-touch-of-the-supernatural-with-valerie-power-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 106: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Valerie Power, Author of the Fairy Glen suspense series. Saddle up for a conversation about horses, mystery, thrills, and a touch of the supernatural.

Watch Valerie Power's Interview on YouTube!

Or Listen to the Audio Episode

About Author Valerie Power

Valerie is a lifelong horse lover and a California native. She has had a varied career that includes photographing pearl farms in Asia, and running an underground performance art circus. She now lives with her husband at their off-grid homestead in the high desert of San Diego County.

Valerie's equestrian suspense series takes readers to Fairy Glen — a horsewoman's paradise. Despite the rumors of the ghosts, witches and spectral animals that haunt the woods in Fairy Glen, her characters are more concerned with solving crimes and saving the day.

Connect with Valerie Power

Website: http://www.valeriepower.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValeriePowerAuthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Valerie_Power

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

Thank you for joining us this week on the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast I hope you enjoy these Q&A sessions with wonderful equine authors who love all things horses and writing just like me.

If you are an author who writes about horses and would like to be spotlighted please let me know. Visit my contact page to fill out a request. I'd be happy to have you on the show, too.

Want a free guide to secrets of horse book authors? Gallop over to https://www.carlykadecreative.com/wisdom.html and join the Equestrian Author Spotlight email list to have the author advice resource delivered instantly to your inbox.

View the Podcast Episode Directory

Make sure you never miss a show by subscribing on YouTube or Apple Podcasts. This podcast is made possible by listeners like you. I appreciate your support!

About Host and Author Carly Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 105: On Parenting Equestrians, Managing Expectations & Enjoying the Ride with Chad Oldfather (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Tue, 21 Jun 2022 23:20:25 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-105-on-parenting-equestrians-managing-expectations-enjoying-the-ride-with-chad-oldfather-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Chad Oldfather Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 105: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Chad Oldfather. Tune in to hear how his dedication to his daughters' equestrian dreams led to his book, A Man Walks Into A Barn.

Saddle up for a conversation about why Chad chose to write a personal memoir about his life, his daughters, and their experience with horses. In the interview, you'll glean tips on parenting equestrians, including how to manage expectations in the sport, as well as insight on enjoying the little things. Chad believes "the best moments are not always on the biggest stages."

Watch Chad Oldfather's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Chad Oldfather

Chad Oldfather has ridden horses just enough times to appreciate how difficult it is to do well. He has also mucked stalls, cleaned tack, stacked hay, helped fix fences, and logged hundreds of hours ringside as his daughters have taken lessons and ridden in shows.

By day he is a professor at Marquette University Law School where, among other things, he teaches classes on and writes about judicial behavior, constitutional law, and the jurisprudence of sport, and serves on the Board of Advisors to the National Sports Law Institute.

His non-legal writings have appeared in the Chronicle of the Horse, the World Equestrian Center Magazine, and Harvard Magazine.

About A Man Walks Into A Barn

When Chad Oldfather found himself the parent of a toddler who, out of nowhere, became obsessed with horses, he had no idea what awaited. With his younger daughters similarly afflicted, Oldfather was soon enmeshed in the consuming subculture of barns, riding, and horse shows, learning not just about the animals that so inexplicably drew his girls, but also about the people and personalities that populated the spaces around them.

A book for parents, whatever their children’s interests, and for equestrians, who know what it’s like “on the inside” (but maybe not what it’s like on the outside, looking in), A Man Walks into a Barn is a wise, witty, and, at times, critical look at both the light and dark sides of youth sports, and equestrianism in particular.

A Man Walks Into A Barn Book by Chad Oldfather

Readers find themselves rooting for Oldfather as he struggles to be the best dad he can, supporting a child’s dreams in the face of long odds and extraordinary expenses. He writes about his parenting choices and the strange world he finds himself in with humor and honesty, critically examining riding’s high cost and the inaccessibility and inequality that results. Aware of the flaws and dangers of youth athletics, as well as the benefits, he strives to protect his girls while supporting their ambitions the best ways he knows how.

Filled with the joys, heartbreaks, and life lessons that come from training, competition, and time in the company of horses, this is mostly a book about family, and the strong bonds that can form when parent and child join hands and pursue a passion together.

Watch the Book Trailer

Connect with Chad Oldfather

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/horsefather
Instagram: @oldfatherc
Twitter: @oldfatherc
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-oldfather-71484811
Buy the Book: www.horseandriderbooks.com/a-man-walks-into-a-barn

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

Make sure you never miss a show by subscribing on YouTube or Apple Podcasts. This podcast is made possible by listeners like you. I appreciate your support!

Thank you for joining us this week on the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast I hope you enjoy these Q&A sessions with wonderful equine authors who love all things horses and writing just like me.

If you are an author who writes about horses and would like to be spotlighted please let me know. Visit my contact page to fill out a request. I'd be happy to have you on the show, too.

Want a free guide to secrets of horse book authors? Gallop over to https://www.carlykadecreative.com/wisdom.html and join the Equestrian Author Spotlight email list to have the author advice resource delivered instantly to your inbox.

Visit the Episode Directory

About Host Carly Kade

]]><![CDATA[Episode 104: On Building Confidence, Writing Strong Themes & Handling an Empty Nest with Laura Holt-Haslam (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Fri, 03 Jun 2022 01:34:42 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-104-on-building-confidence-writing-strong-themes-handling-an-empty-nest-with-laura-holt-haslam-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Laura Holt-Haslam Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 104: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast episode, you'll meet Laura Holt-Haslam of River Pony Press. Saddle up for a conversation about ...

Laura's spokesPONIES, Max and Dusty, who inspired her book series while she was dealing with an empty nest. How she's building up her confidence as an author, including a few true confessions of stumbling blocks she faced starting out.
Why she chooses to write books with strong themes. Her middle grade novels, Sofia's Surprise, A Place for Sofia, and Sofia and Sundance explore the transformative power of horses and friendship.
And much more.

Watch Laura Holt-Haslam's Interview on YouTube!

Or Listen to the Audio Version.

About Laura Holt-Haslam

Award-winning author and lifelong horse enthusiast Laura Holt-Haslam writes books that entertain, educate, and inspire horse lovers of all ages. She’s passionate about sharing her love of horses through art, writing, and hands-on learning.

Over the past 35 years, she has taught basic horsemanship and mentored hundreds of children and teens, encouraging them not only to become more confident equestrians, but more compassionate people. Her middle grade novels, Sofia's Surprise, A Place for Sofia, and Sofia and Sundance explore the transformative power of horses and friendship.

Laura is the mother of two young adult children. She lives in Southern Maine with her husband, two adorably naughty cats, and the friendliest dog you’ll ever meet. She and her daughter share ownership of Max, a 26-year-old palomino miniature horse who loves to jump. Max lives with his best friend, a pony named Dusty. They are the official spokesponies of Laura’s publishing imprint, River Pony Press.

Laura Holt-Haslam Interview Excerpt

Carly: Talk to us about Max and Dusty. How did they become spokesponies for River Pony Press?

Laura: Max is a miniature horse who has been a part of my family since September 11, 2001. I learned about the terrorist attack while I was getting ready to trailer him “home” (the place I would board him). My daughter was 3 ½ and I was pregnant with my son, so my kids grew up with Max.

When my daughter was little, I used to tell her stories about her adventures with Max. They often included encounters with a skunk, though thankfully such an incident never occurred in real life. For her sixth birthday, I gave her a picture book I’d written about her and Max. They were both “small for their age” and Max was happy to find someone who could ride him. I illustrated it with acrylic paintings on canvas paper.

Not long after, I attempted to write my first novel about Max, the talking pony, trying to find his way back to his herd with help from a unicorn, my daughter, and her friend. The horses didn’t believe in such imaginary creatures as humans! who had fallen into Max’s world while on a camping trip… it also involved trolls and dragons. I never finished it, though I worked on it on and off for several years. All of this is to say that Max has played a huge part in my life and in my inspiration to write stories.

I don’t own Dusty. I mentored his owner as a child and teen and helped her get into horses as a young adult. Dusty shares a paddock with Max, and the two of them are best friends.

Laura Holt-Haslam Author of Children's Horse Books

Laura Holt-Haslam with her spokesponies — Max and Dusty

I often use Max and Dusty to interact with kids and teach horsemanship, and thought they’d be great mascots. They live at a campground that’s right on the Saco River in Southern Maine, so I decided to call them the “River Ponies”. River Pony Press is the name of the imprint I publish under.

Max and Dusty (and the other animals at the campground/farm) give me fun pictures and material for my newsletters. There’s also Henry the rescue horse, Ellie the Appy, Wilbur the pig, Socks, Smiles, and Gracie the sheep, and Buck, Philip, Louie, and Chewie, the goats. There are also a number of chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and three geese.

I hope to take Dusty on some library visits this summer. Max is great with kids but gets anxious when adults crowd around him.

Carly: Tell us about your horse book series.

Laura: My series is written with middle grade readers in mind, but it inspires horse lovers of all ages. Sofia’s Surprise is book one of Sofia’s Story. The book explores the transformative power of horses and friendship.

Nine-year-old Sofia Ruiz has just one Christmas wish—a horse of her own. But without winter boots or fuel to heat their run-down trailer, she would settle for just being warm.

With Christmas only days away, Mom arranges for Sofia to spend two weeks with her grandmother, a stranger she hasn’t seen in six years. A painful rift separates Mom from Gramma Lisa, but neither will talk about what happened. Sofia dreads being left alone.

Sofia’s dread becomes delight when she discovers Gramma Lisa owns a Morgan horse named Delilah. Sofia learns about caring for the mare and eagerly volunteers to do the chores, hoping Gramma Lisa will allow her to ride Delilah.

As Sofia and Gramma Lisa pursue their shared passion for horses, Sofia feels increasingly conflicted. She wishes she and Mom could move in with her grandmother, but Mom’s strained relationship with Gramma Lisa stands in the way. If they cannot forgive, will they force Sofia to choose between them?

Sophia's Surprise was a Winnie Award winner at the 2021 Equus Film and Arts Festival in Young Adult category.

Laure Holt-Haslam Author at River Pony Press

A Place for Sofia is the second book in the series. It's a heart-warming story about friendship and discovering family in unexpected places.

Sofia Ruiz adores her horse, Sundance, a gift from the grandmother who has cared for her during her mother’s absence. Weeks before her eleventh birthday, her mother demands that she pack her things, forcing Sofia to leave Sundance behind. She’s sent to live with the great-grandfather she barely knows. Anxious, lonely, and determined to be reunited with Sundance, Sofia searches for a way to return to her grandmother.

After meeting the neighbor’s miniature horses, Sofia is invited to join the Mini Whinnies Horse Club with quick-tempered Olivia, who uses crutches to walk, and her twin brother, Ryan, who’s afraid of horses. As her horse and human friendships grow, Sofia wrestles with where she belongs. Will she ever see Sundance again?

Buy Books by Laura Holt-Haslam

Sofia and Sundance is the third book in the series. It's an uplifting story of horses, friends, family and the bonds that bring them together.

Eleven-year-old Sofia Ruiz thinks her dreams have come true when she’s reunited with her beloved horse, Sundance. But life isn’t as perfect as she’d imagined.

Olivia and Ryan expect to ride whenever they want, leaving Sofia with all the chores and little time for her own horse. Their bossy demands and constant bickering are getting on her nerves, but how can she stand up to them? Being the new kid at Maplewood Middle School is hard enough without worrying about losing her only two friends. When the most popular girl in sixth grade befriends Sofia, her relationships with Olivia and Ryan are pushed to the breaking point.

After an accident leaves Sundance’s confidence shaken, Sofia must discover how to regain her horse’s trust—and her friends’.

Buy Books by Laura Holt-Haslam

Carly: You've written other horse books, too. Tell us about those.

Laura: Studies show that practicing gratitude leads to greater happiness, improved relationships, higher self-esteem, reduced stress, and better performance in school, so I developed Grateful: A Guided Gratitude Journal for Young Horse Lovers

This engaging, horse-themed journal encourages tweens and teens to celebrate everyday blessings, focus on the positive, express appreciation to others, and show kindness and generosity. Each page of the journal contains thoughtful writing and drawing prompts. Many pages also include horse-themed illustrations that journal writers can color or decorate.

Whether they are accomplished equestrians or simply admirers of the beauty of the horse, this journal will help young horse lovers unleash the life-changing power of gratitude.

My newest book is Emily Edwards Equestrian Extraordinaire. Also, written with a middle grade reader in mind.

Twelve-year-old Emily Edwards is confident she has what it takes to become an accomplished equestrian. She’s read every horse book in the library, watched countless how-to videos, and can name every Kentucky Derby winner since 1875. There’s only one obstacle standing in the way of her success.

She’s never ridden a horse.

When Emily wins an essay contest and is awarded a full scholarship to a week of horse camp, she’s ready to impress the staff with her knowledge and skills. Unfortunately, the no-nonsense head instructor doesn’t recognize the brilliance Emily knows she possesses. But that isn’t Emily’s only struggle. Learning how to make friends and be a friend may prove an even greater challenge than becoming an equestrian extraordinaire.

Connect with Laura Holt-Haslam

Website: https://lauraholthaslam.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraHoltHaslam.author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Laura_Holt_Haslam

Buy Books by Laura Holt-Haslam

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

View the Episode Directory

About Your Host Carly Kade

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly's In the Reins equestrian romance book series was written with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are perfect for poolside reading, taking to the beach, or settling down with after a day of horseback riding.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 103: On Embracing our Mammal Skills & Issues within the Human Herd with Beth Anstandig (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Wed, 18 May 2022 20:27:20 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-103-on-embracing-our-mammal-skills-issues-within-the-human-herd-with-beth-anstandig-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Episode 103: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this week's episode, you'll meet Beth Anstandig, a licensed psychotherapist; leadership, culture and well-being consultant; owner The Circle Up experience at Take a Chance Ranch.

Saddle up for an eye-opening conversation about how we can work with horses to better address issues within the human herd and what we can do to embrace our innate mammal skills, in order to deal with pressure and find a state of ease.

Watch Beth Anstandig's Interview on YouTube!

Or Listen to the Audio Interview.

About Beth Anstandig

For more than 25 years, and with an ever-growing menagerie of animals at her California ranch, licensed psychotherapist and lifelong cowgirl, Beth Anstandig has worked with human herds providing leadership, corporate culture, and well-being programs through The Circle Up Experience. She’s trained thousands of CEOs, managers, and teams from companies, universities, and nonprofits, helping them tap into their Natural Leadership to live, lead and work with genuine connection.

Beth Anstandig Interview Excerpt

Carly: Why did you decide to work with horses?

Beth: When you see yourself through the eyes of a horse, you see your true nature. Our starting point with any group is with our horses. Simply put, horse work is our assessment tool. While more traditional approaches can be valuable to how we understand ourselves and each other, few are so immediately transformative.

Our equine-assisted activities (non-riding) allow the horses to teach you and show you parts of your leadership that need more room to play. As prey animals, horses possess exquisitely attuned emotional systems and they are able to pick up on the ever-changing nuances of mammals’ internal workings as they assess for safety. The cohesion of the herd is at the heart of the group’s survival.

They rely on a radical commitment to awareness and to an ever-present feedback system flowing through their herd. This unique sensing system allows the horses to read each other and their environment so they can detect danger and look for opportunities to rest in safety.

It also allows them to read us and to notice the places where we are blocked. Because so much of our innate power is trapped in our thoughts and often self-defeating scripts, our truest desires are just out of our reach.

This is an opportunity to get honest, gentle feedback from your equine teachers and coaching and support from your human facilitators. Participants leave a Circle Up experience with an open channel of authentic power ready to bring into their world.

Carly: Tell us about The Circle Up Experience.

Beth: Not that long ago, humans were more connected. We were more aware of how much we needed each other. Humans have lived in “herds” for thousands of years — communities, big or small, that have provided us a safe haven for sharing resources and leaning on each other for support and fellowship. Even in these highly technological times when self-sufficiency is the norm, we still long to be connected. It’s how we truly thrive.

When we stray from our herd and stop practicing the basic elements of community-building and trust-growing, our groups and relationships suffer. Through meaningful experiences and intentional conversation, we can reclaim and revive this simple but essential part of our human story.

Circle Up’s model of Natural Leadership and experiential learning with horses integrates human psychology, animal behavior, and natural systems to offer a unique approach to personal and professional development.

At The Circle Up Experience, you awaken your Natural Leadership so you can navigate the world, take hold of your most genuine desires, and build authentic connections.

Carly: Tell us about your book.

Beth: The Human Herd: Awakening Our Natural Leadership is part guidebook, part manifesto, part wake-up call, The book offers a framework for living, relating, and leading a more empowered life.

Each chapter includes stories that span all aspects of the human experience along with the core concepts of the Natural Leadership model, a set of tools readers can easily utilize, and a variety of practice modes such as exercises and reflective experiences.

This guidebook unleashes our mammal instincts and shows us how to heighten our self-awareness, experience our lives more deeply, improve our relationships, and step into a more natural—and powerful—way to lead.

Connect with Beth Anstandig

Website: https://www.thecircleupexperience.com/
Blog: https://www.thecircleupexperience.com/latest-news/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecircleupexperience
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecircleupexperience/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanstandig
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/Beth_Anstandig

The Human Herd: Awakening Our Natural Leadership is available wherever your favorite books are sold. Visit http://thehumanherdbook.com/ to learn more and order.

And to learn more about in-person retreats, courses and coaching at our ranch, as well as online offerings, visit https://www.thecircleupexperience.com/offerings/

A Note about the book’s publisher, Morgan James Publishing:
Regarding interview question about publishing independently or traditional, Morgan James Publishing is a hybrid publisher whose titles are distributed by Ingram Publisher Services and are available wherever books are sold.

Want More Equine Author Interviews?

View the Episode Directory

About Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly's In the Reins equestrian romance book series was written with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are perfect for poolside reading, taking to the beach, or settling down with after a day of horseback riding.

]]><![CDATA[#BuyAHorseBookDay: What to Know + 25% Off Books]]>Tue, 10 May 2022 02:08:00 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/buyahorsebookday-what-to-know-25-off-books

Buy a Horse Book Day! This post contains everything you'll want to know, including how to participate, discounts, and info on giveaways. Plus, I'm hosting my own book sale in celebration of Buy A Horse Book Day! Horse book lovers will enjoy 25% off and FREE shipping on all In the Reins titles featured in my online store.

It's easy to participate!

Buy a horse book from my online store (don't forget your coupon), your favorite tack shop, or a local bookstore.
Take a selfie with the book, tell others about your favorite horse books (or what books you've written), and tag your post with the hashtag #BuyAHorseBookDay.

Be sure to tag the sponsors @horseandriderbooks and @heelsdownspark for added likes, shares, and chances to win prizes!

I'm hosting a book sale in celebration of Buy A Horse Book Day!
Enjoy 25% off and FREE shipping on all In the Reins titles.
The sale runs through midnight (PST) on Thursday, May 12th.
Every order will also receive a complimentary button! (pictured above)
Simply use coupon code HORSEBOOKDAY25 at checkout.

Take Me to the Books for 25% Off

Everything you need to know about #BuyAHorseBookDay:

In this Equestrian Author Spotlight, Rebecca Didier, Managing Editor and Graphic Designer at Trafalgar Square Books, returns to the podcast. Learn how horse book lovers and authors can participate as well as take advantage of deals, sales, and prizes on Buy A Horse Book Day.

Take Me to the Podcast Episode

Horse books are not only fun to read, but they educate and inspire, and buying them supports SO MANY independent creators and small businesses. Let's join together and make this an annual event that is positive, exciting, and inclusive!

Here's to Horse Books,
Carly

Psst ... Don't forget to use coupon code HORSEBOOKDAY25 upon checkout for 25% off and free shipping in my online store!

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly's In the Reins equestrian romance book series was written with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are perfect for poolside reading, taking to the beach, or settling down with after a day of horseback riding.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 102: On Buy a Horse Book Day & Publishing for the Good of the Horse with Rebecca Didier (Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast)]]>Thu, 05 May 2022 18:26:53 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/episode-102-on-buy-a-horse-book-day-publishing-for-the-good-of-the-horse-with-rebecca-didier-equestrian-author-spotlight-podcast

Rebecca Didier Buy a Horse Book Day Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

Episode 102: Welcome to the Equestrian Author Spotlight podcast! In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. If you are an author, aspire to be an author, or simply love horse books, then you are in the right place!

In this information packed episode, Rebecca Didier, Managing Editor and Graphic Designer at Trafalgar Square Books, returns to the show.

Saddle up for details about the first annual Buy A Horse Book Day sponsored by Trafalgar Square Books and Heels Down Media. Learn how horse book lovers and authors can participate as well as take advantage of deals, sales, and prizes on Buy A Horse Book Day.

Watch Rebecca Didier's Interview on YouTube!

Or listen to the audio version.

About Rebecca Didier

Rebecca Didier & her metal pony

Rebecca works for Trafalgar Square Books, the leading publisher of equestrian books and videos. She currently serves as both Managing Editor and Graphic Designer, and her role in the small company spans acquisitions, editorial, design, and marketing. She has worked with top riders, trainers, and equine experts from around the globe to bring their books to print.

Rebecca has designed more than 200 book covers for the non-fiction, biography, memoir, and fiction genres, as well as packaging for videos. She is co-author of the book Dressage with Mind, Body & Soul with world-renowned animal behaviorist Linda Tellington-Jones.

Rebecca writes and rides whenever she can, splitting her time between Boston and Vermont, and metal ponies and real ones.

Buy A Horse Book Day Details

#BuyAHorseBookDay— Every year on May 10th, join Trafalgar Square Books and Heels Down Media to celebrate horse books and all those who write them, read them, and make them!

What to Do: Buy a horse book at your favorite tack or bookstore, take a selfie, post about your favorite horse books, tell others your reading recommendations (or what books you've written!), and tag your post #BuyAHorseBookDay (and don't forget to include @horseandriderbooks and @heelsdownspark for added likes, shares, and chances to win!)

Why Create Buy A Horse Book Day: Horse books are not only fun to read, but they educate and inspire, and buying them supports SO MANY independent creators and small businesses. Let's join together and make this an annual event that is positive, exciting, and inclusive!

Buy A Horse Book Day Prizes and Discounts: Every order from online bookstore www.HorseandRiderBooks.com on May 10th is automatically entered to win a $100 shopping spree at Trafalgar Square Books' online bookstore, plus books will be given away to favorite social posts throughout the day! Watch for individual horse book author contests and giveaways, too.

Here's How to Participate on Buy A Horse Book Day

Buy a horse book at your favorite tack or bookstore, take a selfie, post about your favorite horse books, tell others your reading recommendations, and tag your post with the #BuyAHorseBookDay hashtag.

Also, don't forget to include @horseandriderbooks and @heelsdownspark for added likes, shares, and chances to win!

Sign up for the Heels Down Spark, the only daily equestrian newsletter, for reviews of some of Heels Down's favorite horse-themed books and for their discounts and giveaways during the week of May 10.

CLICK HERE to sign up for Heels Down Spark

PLUS, Trafalgar Square Books is running a site-wide sale on May 10th in honor of Buy A Horse Book Day! Enjoy 20% off plus FREE SHIPPING in the US! Trafalgar Square Books, the leading publisher of equestrian books and videos, is a small business based on a farm in rural Vermont.

CLICK HERE to visit Trafalgar Square Books online bookstore now.

Visit Trafalgar Square's online bookstore and order publisher-direct. They have a terrific loyalty program, so the more you buy, the more you save, and buying directly helps support small business and hard-working authors.

Learn About the Loyalty Program

Connect with Rebecca Didier & Trafalgar Square

Website: www.horseandriderbooks.com
Blog: https://horseandriderbooks.wordpress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HorseandRiderBooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/horseandriderbooks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TSBbooks
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccadidier/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/horseandriderbooks
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/horseandriderbooks/

Listen to Rebecca Didier's Previous Interview!

Rebecca takes us behind the scenes of the publishing industry. She shares how to approach a traditional publisher and their expectations for authors from submissions to marketing and offers advice on building an author career as well as insights on how to make your book structurally strong and visually appealing.

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About Your Host & Author Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly's In the Reins equestrian romance book series was written with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are perfect for poolside reading, taking to the beach, or settling down with after a day of horseback riding.

]]><![CDATA[The Scariest Moment of My Life with Horses]]>Tue, 26 Apr 2022 19:45:10 GMThttps://www.carlykadecreative.com/blog/the-scariest-moment-of-my-life-with-horses

My life would be so different without Sissy in it. We've been together through thick and thin for 16 years. I wasn't ready to contemplate a life without her, but I had to. I just experienced the scariest four days of my horse owning life, saving Sissy.

The good news: We battled against colic and won the fight.

We were very lucky. In fact, we see it as a miracle. Making this video of our journey was therapeutic for me after seeing my beloved horse and best friend over an enormous health hurtle that could have ended so differently.

Saving Sissy: Our Battle with Colic

Colic is a condition that all horse owners fear and it snuck up on us last Thursday. A sudden change in diet or weather, stress, too much grass, a foreign object (honestly the list goes on and on) causes a painful and potentially fatal impaction or blockage in the bowel.

Signs of colic in horses can include:

Frequently looking at their side.
Biting or kicking their flank or belly.
Lying down and/or rolling.
Little or no passing of manure.
Fecal balls smaller than usual.
Passing dry or mucus (slime)-covered manure.
Poor eating behavior, may not eat all their grain or hay.
Change in drinking behavior.
Heart rate over 45 to 50 beats per minute.
Tacky gums.
Long capillary refill time.

Off-colored mucous membranes.

Photo: Melanie Ellis Photography

Thank you to everyone who kept us in your prayers. Thank you to my husband for holding me up every step of the way. I thank heaven that, with the help of the professionals at the Chaparral Veterinary Medical Clinic, we saved Sissy.

About Carly Kade

Photo: Shelley Paulson Photography

Carly Kade is an award-winning author, horse owner, creativity coach, and the host of the Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast. She helps fellow writers start, grow, and expand their author careers. Creative writing makes her spurs jingle!

Carly's In the Reins equestrian romance book series was written with horse lovers in mind, no matter which discipline they ride. The horses are as vital to moving the story forward as the human characters are.

These books are perfect for poolside reading, taking to the beach, or settling down with after a day of horseback riding.

]]>

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