This Week on In Stride

Sinead Halpin-Maynard welcomes top event rider and show jumper Marilyn Little for a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and pushing the boundaries at the top levels of the sport.

Meet the Guest: Marilyn Little

Marilyn Little is an American eventing and show jumping rider known for her success across multiple disciplines at the highest levels of the sport. She has represented the United States in international eventing competitions, including the Pan American Games, where she earned both team and individual gold medals in 2015. In addition to her achievements in eventing, Marilyn has competed successfully in international show jumping at the Grand Prix level, demonstrating her versatility and horsemanship.

In This Episode, Sinead and Marilyn Discuss:

• Marilyn’s return to show jumping after stepping away and how a special mare named Contessa reignited her passion
• How growing up as a professional’s daughter informed her approach to horses, competition, and handling the intense emotions both in and out of the saddle
• The unique mental and emotional demands of elite sport: managing nerves, building confidence, and learning how to thrive outside your comfort zone
• The roadmap to LA 2028 and what’s next for Team USA show jumping, with insights into team selection and preparation for the games

Episode Sponsor

Connaway & Associates

The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.

- Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.

In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ

Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.

Members also get:

- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts

- Exclusive podcast episodes

- Dressage test prep resources

- A supportive learning community

Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

Looking for More?

Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now.

- Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.

- Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830

This Week on In Stride

Go behind the scenes with Jim Masterson, founder of the Masterson Method, as he joins Sinead Halpin-Maynard for an in-depth conversation about equine bodywork and the power of patience and observation.

Meet the Guest: Jim Masterson

Jim Masterson is an internationally recognized equine bodyworker and clinician, and the founder of the Masterson Method. He developed his approach while working with high-level sport and endurance horses, including those connected to the United States Equestrian Team. Today, Jim teaches his method to horse owners and professionals around the world through clinics and certification courses. Based in Iowa, he continues to travel and is known for his practical, horse-centered approach to improving comfort, communication, and performance.

In This Episode, Jim and Sinead Discuss:

• Jim’s journey from horse-crazy kid and traveling groom to a pioneer in the field of equine bodywork

• The core principles of the Masterson Method, including observation, awareness, and the importance of waiting for the horse’s response

• The link between physical and mental tension in horses, and strategies for supporting high-performance athletes and everyday companions alike

• The challenges of bringing new ideas to traditional equestrian worlds, and Jim’s commitment to making bodywork accessible to all horse lovers

In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ

Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.

Members also get:

- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts

- Exclusive podcast episodes

- Dressage test prep resources

- A supportive learning community

Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

Looking for More?

Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now.

- Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.

- Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830

This Week on In Stride

Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Olympic legend Robert Dover for a behind-the-scenes look at life at the pinnacle of equestrian sport, and the lessons learned both in and out of the arena.

Meet the Guest: Robert Dover

Robert Dover is a six-time Olympic medalist and one of the most influential figures in American dressage, known for his success as both a competitor and coach on the international stage. He represented the United States at six consecutive Olympic Games, earning team bronze medals each time, along with strong results at World Equestrian Games and other international competitions. Following his competitive career, Robert served as chef d’équipe for the U.S. Dressage Team, helping guide American riders in major international championships. Based in Florida, he continues to coach riders of all levels and is widely respected for his expertise and lasting impact on the sport.

In This Episode, Sinead and Robert Discuss:

• Robert’s journey through a multi-faceted career, from competing at six Olympic Games and winning multiple U.S. national championships to his work in radio and television

• How his early experiences shaped his passion for horses and set him on the path to international success

• The biggest challenges facing dressage today, including declining participation, rising costs, and the urgent need to bring joy and inclusivity back to the show ring

• His commitment to giving back, including the creation of the American Dressage Mentoring Program and decades of work with the Equestrian Aid Foundation

Episode Sponsor

Connaway & Associates

The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.

- Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.

In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ

Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.

Members also get:

- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts

- Exclusive podcast episodes

- Dressage test prep resources

- A supportive learning community

Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

Looking for More?

Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now.

- Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.

- Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830