In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" podcast, World Champion horse trainer Christy Wood is joined by fellow rider Stephanie Callahan Clark for their annual look at the Chief Joseph Trail Ride — a thirteen-year progressive journey on horseback retracing the Nez Perce National Historic Trail across Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana.

They cover this year's route, wildlife encounters, camp community, horse safety, and why living off-the-grid on the trail is part of the adventure — plus a look ahead to 2027, the 150th anniversary of Chief Joseph's flight.

🔗 EXPLORE MORE 🐴 Learn more about the Chief Joseph Trail Ride: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-chief-joseph-trail-ride 📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: https://wdnhorse.com/ 🏇 Chief Joseph Trail Ride nonprofit: https://chiefjosephtrailride.org/ 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the ABC's of Horses Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-podcast 📖Check out the ABC's of Horses Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-magazine

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, World Champion horse trainer Christy Wood kicks off Volume 2 with the letter A, exploring Action & Agility and what these qualities reveal about a horse's movement, balance, conformation, and athletic ability.

Christy explains why observing a horse in motion is so important—whether you're evaluating a horse before purchase, watching it move freely, observing it on the lunge line, or seeing it under saddle. She discusses how proper conformation, alignment, hoof placement, balance, and physical structure all contribute to a horse's ability to move efficiently and stay sound.

The conversation also explores the importance of “form to function” and choosing a horse that matches its intended purpose and the rider's needs. A horse suited for trail riding may have different athletic requirements than one destined for jumping, racing, rodeo, or other demanding disciplines.

Christy also shares insights into evaluating horses remotely through video and why having a trained eye can make a difference when purchasing a horse.

🔗 EXPLORE MORE 📖 Check out Volume 1 of the ABC's of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: http://wdnhorse.com

🎧 Listen to more episodes of the ABC's of Horses Podcast: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

Celebrate a Big Blend Radio milestone! We have officially wrapped up Volume 1 of the ABCs of Horses digital podcast magazine, completing the entire alphabet from A to Z!

To mark the occasion, host/producer Lisa sits down with resident equestrian expert and Christy Wood—world champion horse trainer, author, horse show judge—for a fun, insightful "getting to know you" interview.

Before Christy hits the historic Chief Joseph Trail Ride again, we look back at the highlights of Volume 1 (from Appaloosas to the Zoomies!) and put her in the hot seat with 10 fun questions. Discover her ultimate spirit animal, her dream weekend getaway, what she wants in her ultimate horse barn, and why she absolutely bans onions from her dinner plate!

📖 Read & Listen to Volume 1: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: http://wdnhorse.com

🎙️Subscribe to the Podcast from your favorite platform: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/