In December, one of our Facebook posts sparked a big debate: does the American equitation system put too much pressure on riders to look the part?

We're joined this week by Nicki Shahinian-Simpson, who knows what it’s like to chase the perfect position — she’s won both Maclay and Medal Finals. But she’s also seen how that pressure can steal your confidence.

Tune in as Nicki and Noelle break down the realities of position: what actually matters, how it affects your riding, and why strength, individuality, and skill should take priority over fitting the mold.

You don't want to miss this one - listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!

If you didn't get a chance to join our Review My Ride virtual clinic with Josh Nichol, the replay is now available to watch on NF+!  And we've made it free for anyone — not just NF+ members —  to stream for a limited time. 

One attendee shared with us, "This is the most brilliant thing I’ve seen in a long time (and I watch a lot of content and trainers). It’s the missing piece of the puzzle—absolutely life-changing." 🤯

Did you join us on Monday, or plan to tune into the replay? As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback! 

Caracole de la Roque, piloted by our own NF+ instructor Karl Cook at the Paris Olympics, was just named the USEF International Horse of the Year! Plus, Karl himself was awarded the William C. Steinkraus Trophy in recognition of his contributions to the Olympic team.

A big NF+ round of applause for Karl and Cara!  👏  And if you missed it, we caught up with the Cooks right after their return from Paris — you can read the full conversation on the blog.

Join us on Monday, January 27th at 2 pm ET / 11 am PT for a "Review My Ride" virtual clinic with Josh Nichol! 

This is a great opportunity to get personalized advice from Josh on your training questions, and to learn from other riders' experiences and challenges. 

Register to join here — there will be a replay available if you can't make it live. Then, submit your video here for a chance to have Josh review it during the event.

Let us know if you have any questions & see you there! 

P.S. — this virtual clinic is free and open to all, not just NF+ members, so feel free to share with your barn friends & community!

This week's special episode of Dear Horse World takes you inside one of our NF+ Office Hours from October, with NF+ instructor Tik Maynard and community director Kylie Bartel.

Explore the motivational pyramid of horses and learn how to decode your horse’s behavior, build trust, and tackle challenges like pawing in the cross ties or calling out to friends.

Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!

Season 2 is HERE! 

Step into the world of elite show jumper Mavis Spencer in the highly anticipated new season of “A Day in the Life” – featuring “Inside My Stable” and “Inside My Tack Trunk.”

We’re bringing you an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look as Mavis takes on Europe. From her stable routine to the secrets behind her success, this season is packed with inspiration, passion, and jaw-dropping moments. Watch all three episodes on NF+ now!

What if your horse is trying to tell you something—and you just don’t know how to listen?

In this week's episode of Dear Horse World, Noëlle sits down with animal communicator and author Delaya Diana to explore the mystical and transformative connection between humans and horses. From learning how to trust your horse’s “no” to unlocking new ways to communicate and connect, Delaya offers insights that will resonate with every horse owner.

Watch now on NF+, or tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!

Back by popular demand!

We’re excited to announce Season 2 of our exclusive short-form series on NF+. New episodes of A Day In The Life, and Inside My Stable and Inside My Tack Trunk will take you behind the scenes with world-renowned equestrian athletes like Mavis Spencer, Peder Fredricson, Luciana Diniz, and Piggy March.

Watch all the trailers on the Coming Soon page, and stay tuned for our release of Mavis Spencer's episodes on Friday, January 17th 💪

📢 New on NF+! 📢

Have you ever struggled to create meaningful change with a tense, fearful horse? Or wondered how to rebuild trust when your partnership with them seems fragile?

In Josh Nichol’s Horsemanship Case Study: Reframing Pressure with Hannah & Xena, you’ll follow Hannah and her rescue mare Xena, whose struggles with reactivity and anxiety have left their bond feeling uncertain.

Over three transformative days, Josh uncovers Xena’s triggers and reframes pressure as a tool for connection instead of fear. With his guidance, Hannah learns how to support Xena with confidence, fostering calmness and willing movement.

📌 What you’ll learn:

• How to transform reactivity into calm, thoughtful responses

• Practical tools for fostering free and willing movement

• Techniques to interpret and meet your horse’s unique needs

• The power of presence to create lasting connection and trust

🎥 Watch now on NF+ and discover how trust can rebuild and transform your relationship with your horse.

💻 Visit the discussion thread in our new Groundwork & Behavior channel to share your thoughts with your fellow members.