In this episode, Scott Cieslar describes the journey of founding Mad Barn and driving change in the equine industry to make the world better for horses. He recounts his early memories of raising horses through his father's love for racing and the various roles he took on, from grooming to studying animal science and nutrition.

From his early days in horse racing with his father to founding a company now recognized worldwide, Scott shares how his passion for horses evolved. Starting from humble beginnings—carrying supplement bags in his car — Mad Barn has grown into a global leader with a focus on research, education, and filling critical gaps in equine nutrition studies.

Scott discusses how Mad Barn’s team of nutritionists and veterinarians provides science-backed solutions and education to improve horse welfare. He reflects on the challenges, the milestones, and the honour of working with Olympic athletes, highlighting his vision for a lasting legacy in the equine industry.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introducing Scott Cieslar

04:33 Early Memories with Horses

06:51 Journey into Equine Nutrition

08:43 Founding Mad Barn

11:04 Challenges and Growth

15:27 Research and Innovation

20:58 The Mad Barn Team

26:28 Education and Outreach

32:01 Working with Olympic Athletes

34:09 Reflections and Future Goals

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

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Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

In this episode, Dr. Chris Mortensen discusses the critical aspects of pasture management for horses and other equids. Highlighting his experience with the endangered Somali wild ass, Dr. Mortensen explains the importance of continuous grazing behaviors in wild and domestic equids. He covers a wide range of topics including the benefits of productive pastures, appropriate forages, soil testing, rotational grazing, mowing, harrowing, and weed control. This detailed guide is essential for horse owners and enthusiasts looking to optimize their pasture land use, reduce costs, and ensure the health and happiness of their animals.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction to the Somali Wild Ass

00:36 Behavioral Study in Florida

02:14 Observations on Equid Foraging

05:09 Importance of Pasture Management

05:46 Nutritional Needs of Horses

06:58 Benefits of Pastures for Horses

10:55 Determining Pasture Acreage

14:53 Types of Forages and Their Growth

21:20 Soil Health and Fertilization

25:39 Grazing Systems and Management

36:41 Weed Control and Pasture Maintenance

39:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

---------------------------------

Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

Dr. Chris Mortensen shares his journey from aspiring veterinarian to equine educator and highlights the diverse career opportunities in the equine industry. He discusses traditional roles like veterinarians, farriers, and trainers as well as less commonly known careers such as equine photographers and insurance agents. Salary ranges and qualifications for various jobs are detailed, emphasizing the thriving nature of the equine industry. The episode encourages listeners, especially young people, to explore their passion for horses through the numerous career paths available.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 A Childhood Dream of Veterinary Medicine

01:01 Discovering a Passion for Equine Studies

02:35 Exploring Careers in the Equine Industry

03:14 The Vast Opportunities in the Equine Industry

07:40 Diving into Equine Health Careers

11:29 The Role of Equine Veterinary Technicians

14:13 Equine Dentistry: A Specialized Field

16:22 Equine Reproductive Specialists

21:39 Alternative Equine Health Careers

23:28 The Importance of Farriers in Equine Care

25:05 Consulting Your Veterinarian

25:13 The Role and Salary of Farriers

26:07 Exploring Unique Equine Careers

26:26 Equine Photography: Turning Passion into Profession

28:15 Equine Event Coordinators: Behind the Scenes

29:46 Equine Journalism: A Changing Field

30:54 Equine Insurance Agents and Appraisers

32:42 Equine Product Sales Representatives

34:13 Equine Training and Riding Instructors

37:11 Therapeutic Riding and Behavior Specialists

39:01 Stable Managers and Barn Hands

42:27 Equine Nutritionists: A Specialized Field

45:55 Conclusion: Opportunities in the Equine Industry

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

---------------------------------

Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠