Episodes

In Part 2 of our conversation with Aubrey Graham of Kivu Sporthorses, we take a deeper dive into her practical approach to training off-track Thoroughbreds. Aubrey breaks down how to do less to get more—a mindset that emphasizes thoughtful observation, strategic timing, and letting the horse lead. From early groundwork to first jumps, she shares exercises, common mistakes, and how to build a training plan that prioritizes communication and trust. If you're retraining a young Thoroughbred or n...

In this episode of OTTB on Tap, we sit down with Aubrey Graham of Kivu Sporthorses to explore the foundation behind her OTTB training philosophy. From her academic background in anthropology to her transition into the world of off-track Thoroughbreds, Aubrey shares how she became a trusted voice in the industry through her popular Thoroughbred Logic series. We talk about her role as a "middleman" between horse and rider, how she manages a large string of OTTBs each year, and what she wishes more...

Three plain brown wrappers. Three pedigrees packed with power. In this sneak peek of Volume 6, we introduce this month’s lineup of listener-submitted OTTBs—Fifty Pesos, Slew’s Resurrection, and Artie’s Cryptonite—and tease what makes each one stand out from the crowd. Plus, we read reactions from the owners featured in Volume 5. To hear our full evaluation—including deep dives into pedigree, conformation, temperament trends, and second-career suitability—head to ottbontap.supercast.com and su...

At just 14 years old, Kimber Houston is already making a name for herself in the world of Thoroughbred aftercare. Alongside her mom, Tanya, she runs Trotty By Nature—a Montana-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to retraining and rehoming Off-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) with passion, purpose, and a serious love for 90s and 2000s hip-hop. In this episode, we chat about: How Kimber founded Trotty By Nature as a teen Their unique approach to OTTB retraining in Montana’s rugged climate ...

In this March recap from the OTTB Training Diaries, Niamh gets honest about a clinic experience with a big-name trainer that didn’t quite live up to the hype. But that wasn’t the only unexpected moment—this episode also dives into a revealing session with an animal communicator, a training ride with fresh perspective, and Oscar’s continued progress under saddle and in his mind. Plus, Niamh and Emily answer your Ask Us Anything questions on everything from barn routines to OTTB shopping advice. ...

We’re back with Danielle Montgomery for Part 2 of our deep dive into Turning For Home, one of the most effective and scalable Thoroughbred aftercare programs in the country. In this episode, we focus on what makes their approach so successful—namely, their partner farm model, lifetime safety net, and emphasis on long-term support for every horse that leaves the track at Parx Racing. With over 4,400 OTTBs rehomed and counting, Turning For Home has built a nationwide network of trusted partner fa...

In this powerful first installment of our two-part interview with Danielle Montgomery, we explore the groundbreaking work of Turning For Home, a Thoroughbred aftercare program launched by the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (PTHA) at Parx Racing. Founded in 2008 as a direct response to growing public concern over racehorse welfare, Turning For Home became one of the first racetrack-based retirement programs to take full responsibility for transitioning off-track Thoroughbreds (O...

We’re back with another round of OTTB on Tap Evaluates, and this time, it’s all about the greys! In this teaser episode, we kick things off by revisiting our evaluations from Vol 4, sharing listener feedback, and revealing how our predictions stacked up against real-world results. Did we get it right, or did these OTTBs surprise us? Then, we introduce the three grey Thoroughbreds featured in Vol 5—each with an interesting pedigree and plenty of potential for sport. Two of them trace back to Exc...

What do off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) and birds of prey have in common? More than you might think! In this episode of OTTB on Tap, Niamh sits down with Martin Whitley of the Recycled Racehorse Falconry Team, a one-of-a-kind program that retrains ex-racehorses for falconry work in the UK. With his sharp wit and wealth of experience, Martin shares how his passion for horses and birds of prey led to this innovative program. He walks us through the process of selecting and retraining OTTBs ...

February was full of big moments for Oscar—some great, some… a little dramatic. From tackling group lessons and finally settling on a saddle to his first canter and a confidence-boosting obstacle course challenge, his progress was anything but boring! In this episode, we’re sharing a sneak peek of our full OTTB Training Diaries – February Recap exclusively for OTTB on Tap Insiders. Want to hear how Oscar handled his first canter? What about the biggest lesson breakthrough that changed the gam...

Thinking about buying an OTTB? A pre-purchase exam (PPE) for an off-track Thoroughbred can feel overwhelming, but understanding how to interpret vet findings is key to making an informed decision. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Ashley Taylor, we break down the PPE process, common misconceptions about OTTBs, and how to evaluate soundness for long-term success. Dr. Taylor brings her sports medicine expertise to the discussion, helping buyers understand: How to assess past injuries a...

What does it take to successfully transition an OTTB from the track to a second career? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ashley Taylor, an equine sports medicine veterinarian, owner of Twin Ponds Farm and co-owner of Sports Medicine Associates of Chester County. With a passion for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and optimizing equine performance, Dr. Taylor has built a career focused on keeping sport horses sound and helping OTTBs recover, strengthen, and excel in new disciplines. Her...

We’re back with another round of OTTB on Tap Evaluates! In this sneak peek of Volume 4, we introduce three OTTBs, including two warhorses with impressive race records, and break down their pedigrees and post-track potential. Want to hear the full evaluation, including our deep dive into conformation and sporthorse suitability? Join Supercast for just $5/month to unlock this episode and more exclusive content. Plus, if you’re the owner of one of the horses we evaluated, contact us for a free mon...

What happens to Thoroughbred broodmares when their breeding careers end? Too often, these mares are overlooked in the aftercare conversation, but Mareworthy Charities is working to change that. Founded by Kyle Rothfus, Mareworthy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to giving retired OTTB broodmares the retirement, rehoming, and second careers they deserve. In this episode, Kyle takes us behind the scenes of Mareworthy’s mission, sharing how the organization got started and what ma...

In this episode of OTTB on Tap, we sit down with Ashley Steele Norris, the driving force behind Sunbriar Equestrian, to dive into her journey with OTTBs. From growing up with horses to training under the legendary Jane Sleeper, Ashley’s path has been built on hard work, passion, and a deep understanding of Thoroughbreds. She shares her experiences working with off-track Thoroughbreds, balancing motherhood with professional riding, and what it takes to develop these horses into successful sport p...

In this episode of OTTB on Tap Evaluates, we dive into the pedigrees, conformation, and potential of three listener-submitted Thoroughbreds: Flowers Apriority, Cowboy Swagger, and Mr. Cellular. Join Niamh and Emily as they analyze each horse’s unique racing background, bloodlines, and suitability for sport horse careers. From standout sires like Grand Slam and Gone West in Flowers Apriority’s lineage, to Kentucky Derby winner Grindstone’s influence on Cowboy Swagger, and the athletic versatil...

Join us for the first installment of our OTTB Training Diaries series, where we follow the journey of Go Green (aka Oscar) as he transitions from the racetrack to his new career. In this episode, co-host Emily interviews Niamh about Oscar’s December progress, featuring key milestones, training insights, and personality quirks. From mastering groundwork and lunging to navigating cross-ties and tackling off-property adventures, Niamh shares the strategies she’s using to set Oscar up for success...

In this latest episode of OTTB on Tap, we welcome back Chelsey O’Brien, a fan-favorite trainer from our RRP Trainer Chronicles. Chelsey catches us up on her post-Makeover adventures with her OTTB, UBie, and offers expert advice for navigating the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover application process. As Niamh gears up to take her OTTB, Go Green, to the Makeover, Chelsey shares her insider tips for crafting a compelling application, creating a standout video submission, and ...

In the second part of our feature with Tom and Clare Mansmann of Pacific Farms, we explore the advanced aspects of retraining off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). Tom and Clare share their proven methods for managing farrier care, including the use of X-rays, glue-ons, and hoof boots, to help OTTBs adjust to their new lives. They also dive into the body changes horses experience during the transition and provide practical advice for managing ulcers and other common challenges. A standout topic...

In this episode of OTTB On Tap, we’re joined by Tom and Clare Mansmann of Pacific Farms in Hume, VA, for an in-depth discussion on their fundamentals-first approach to retraining off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). From working with legendary mentors like Jimmy Wofford, Karen O’Connor, and Jessica Ransehousen to establishing Pacific Farms Inc, Tom and Clare share the experiences that shaped their passion for OTTBs. They break down their proven methods for evaluating a horse’s natural abilities, ...

Join us for a festive and reflective episode of OTTB on Tap: "2024 Wrapped: OTTB Tales from Christmas Past and Present." This special episode is packed with untold stories from our adventures retraining and reselling OTTBs, alongside a look back at some of our favorite podcast moments from 2024. What to Expect in This Episode: Untold Tales from Our OTTB Adventures: Emily and Niamh share personal stories, like seeing an OTTB "pick their person," one OTTB's wild gallop down a hill just pri...

n this episode of OTTB On Tap, we feature Julie Anna Prusak, an amateur rider from Texas who shares her experience with her OTTB, Nemo. Earlier this year, Nemo was diagnosed with kissing spine—a condition that can challenge even the most dedicated horse owners. Julie Anna walks us through the process of choosing osteotomy surgery, navigating the rehabilitation journey, and preparing for the Retired Racehorse Project Makeover freestyle competition. Hear how this determined pair took on the cha...

This week on OTTB on Tap, we start by revisiting our second installment of OTTB on Tap Evaluates. Find out what the owners of Looking Ready, C Two, and Ruby Bleu thought of our evaluations, including their reactions and reflections on our conformation and pedigree assessments. The episode also features some exciting news—Niamh has officially found her OTTB prospect for the 2025 Retired Racehorse Makeover! Meet Go Green, a 2020 Thoroughbred gelding with outstanding conformation and a pedigree ...

In the latest episode of OTTB on Tap Evaluates, Niamh and Emily analyze three listener-submitted OTTBs, diving into their conformation, pedigree, and potential for a range of equestrian disciplines. This series offers an in-depth look at what makes an off-track Thoroughbred a great candidate for careers in eventing, dressage, or show jumping. (Submit your OTTB for a future episode here.) The featured horses include: Looking Ready, a gelding by More Than Ready with athleticism and resilien...