In Episode 11 of Beyond the Hoof, Kerry and Daphne Thomas are joined by respected German breeder, international equestrian business leader, and European Equestrian Business Association board member, Frank Weibkirchen. This episode moves beyond surface-level discussion into a thoughtful, peer-to-peer conversation about the future of the equine industry; where education, breeding, welfare, business leadership, and global responsibility intersect. At the heart of the discussion is a shared belief that equine welfare and risk awareness must begin with education.

Topics Explored:

• Equine education as the foundation of welfare and risk assessment
• Herd Dynamics & Sensory Soundness™ as practical frameworks for understanding equine behavior
• Leadership development and educational support for riding schools and breeding programs
• Relationship-based horsemanship through a view from the hoof
• “Be the Bridge, Not the Block” — building clarity and connection in horse-human partnerships
• Bridging the gap between human intent and equine experience

Frank shares insight from his work in Germany and across Europe, offering perspective on how breeding operations and equestrian businesses can integrate education, responsibility, and long-term sustainability into modern practice. This is a reflective and forward-looking dialogue between international equine professionals committed to strengthening horsemanship, leadership, and welfare standards across borders. For listeners interested in equine leadership, international breeding, riding school development, herd dynamics education, and welfare-first equestrian practices, this episode offers depth, clarity, and perspective.