What exactly is a local show association and why does it matter?

In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly Gannon, adult amateur rider and volunteer of the Central Virginia Show Jumping Association (CVSJA), to talk about how local horse shows actually run, from costs and volunteers to why they’re critical for young riders and adult amateurs alike.

We cover:

1. Local vs rated horse shows
2. What kids learn beyond ribbons
3. The real costs behind running a show
4. Why volunteer support matters
5. What happens if grassroots associations disappear

If you’re a non-horsey horse mom trying to understand the ecosystem you just joined… his one’s for you.

CVSJA

1. https://www.cvsja.org/
2. https://www.instagram.com/cvsjashows/

Broke Horse Moms

1. Join the BHM newsletter: https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/newsletter
2. Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms

Winter showed up loud this year with ice, school closures, frozen buckets, and barns that don’t care about the weather forecast.

In this episode, Angie shares what’s actually helping her family get through an extended stretch of freezing temperatures, from the clothes that make barn life bearable to the small comforts that keep everyone’s spirits intact.

This isn’t a sponsored gear roundup or a “do it perfectly” episode, it’s a real look at how Broke Horse Moms survive winter when the horses still need care, the kids still need encouragement, and you’re just trying not to lose feeling in your toes.

In this episode, we cover:

1. The winter clothing that’s earning its keep at the barn
2. Why gas station hot chocolate is sometimes the answer
3. Things that matter more than you expect when it’s icy (looking at you, low gears and manure)
4. Community-tested winter survival tips from other horse moms
5. Lessons WE can teach our kids when the rings are frozen over

If you’re cold, tired, and still showing up, this one’s for you.

Helpful links & resources:

1. Broke Horse Moms newsletter: brokhorsemoms.com/newsletter
2. Newsletter archives (in case you sign up AFTER we send the email with links): https://brokehorsemoms.kit.com/profile
3. https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms/

Have a winter survival tip or story? DM me or send an email - I’d love to share it in a future episode.

Buying a horse can feel like the most exciting and terrifying decision you’ll ever make as a horse mom. In this episode, Angie shares the real-life considerations that went into buying her daughter’s horse and the questions every family should ask before making the leap.

Whether you’re leasing, half-leasing, riding lesson horses, or just starting to wonder what’s next, this conversation is for moms navigating big decisions without a horse background or unlimited resources.

1. How to know when riding has moved beyond “just a phase”
2. The difference between emotional readiness and financial readiness
3. Why leasing first can be helpful, but isn’t the only path
4. What parents often underestimate about horse ownership
5. How to evaluate fit between horse, rider, trainer, and barn
6. Why “waiting” can sometimes be the smartest decision
7. What surprised Angie most after buying a horse

📝 Broke Horse Moms Planning Workbook

A practical tool to help you think through goals, logistics, schedules, and finances before making big horse-related decisions.

👉 https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/2026

☕ Support the Podcast

If this episode helped you feel more grounded or less alone, you can support the show with a small contribution. Every bit helps keep Broke Horse Moms going.

👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/brokehorsemoms

There is no “right” timeline for buying a horse. Leasing longer, waiting another season, or deciding not to buy at all doesn’t mean you’re less committed. It means you’re making thoughtful decisions for your family.

If you loved this episode, please consider following the show, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with another horse mom who’s quietly doing the same mental math right now. 🐎💙