OTTB on Tap

por Niamh O'Connell and Emily Kocubinski

Temporada 3

S3 E8: Manifesting the Kentucky 5*: Alex Conrad & Malibu Preacher

n this episode of OTTB on Tap, we’re joined by newly minted 5* rider Alex Conrad, fresh off his incredible Kentucky debut with his OTTB superstar, Malibu Preacher. What we expected was a great conversation about eventing, Kentucky, and producing an off-track Thoroughbred to the top of the sport. What we got was something even more special: a genuinely heartwarming, thoughtful, and unexpectedly emotional conversation with one of the warmest guests we’ve had on the show. Alex takes us back to the beginning, from growing up in the Boston suburbs and falling hard for horses, to choosing the barn over the med school track, to building a career around hard work, catch rides, clinics, and a deep belief in Thoroughbreds. His story is full of the kind of quiet determination that reminds you why horse people keep showing up, even when the path is anything but straightforward. We also go behind the stall door with Malibu Preacher, the former steeplechaser who helped take Alex all the way to Kentucky. Alex shares how MP came into his life, what makes him both challenging and special, how he felt around his first 5* track, and why producing him from the lower levels made crossing that finish line even more meaningful. Along the way, we talk about grit, belief, the village it takes to get a horse to the top, the emotional weight of Kentucky, Alex’s grandfather’s dog tags, and why OTTBs continue to be some of the most generous horses in the sport. This is one of those conversations that stayed with us after we stopped recording, and we hope you love it as much as we did. Cheers, Niamh & Emily

T3 · E8

9 jun 2026

1:05:11

S3 E7: From Office Burnout to Galloping Racehorses: Courtenay Brown's OTTB Journey

What happens when you stop playing it safe and finally choose the horses? In this episode of OTTB on Tap, we sit down with Courtenay Brown, who went from a stable remote career to riding racehorses full time. Her path is anything but linear, and it will hit home for anyone who has ever felt stuck in a job while dreaming about being at the barn. Courtenay shares how she grew up around racehorses, stepped away for years, and came back to the saddle later in life. She talks about producing her own OTTB to the upper levels of eventing, getting laid off, and making the decision to lean into horses instead of rushing back to another desk job. We also get into what it is really like working on the racetrack. The early mornings, the learning curve, and the moments that made her fall in love with it. If you have ever wondered what your OTTB experienced before you got them, this conversation gives you a rare inside look. We talk about her horse Bam, found through CANTER with a bowed tendon and developed into an upper level event horse. And we get honest about shifting priorities, stepping back from competition, and what it looks like to just enjoy your horse. This episode is for anyone thinking about a career change, anyone deep in the OTTB world, and anyone who knows that pull back to horses never really goes away.

T3 · E7

16 abr 2026

1:08:48

S3 E6: Not Just the Highlight Reel: Chelsey O’Brien on Training a Stakes-Winning OTTB and Going Viral (Part 2)

In Part 2 with returning guest Chelsey O’Brien, we catch up on what life looks like after the Retired Racehorse Project and what she’s working on next. Chelsey introduces her 2026 prospect, Rustler, aka Rusty, a stakes-winning OTTB owned by Pastured Place. He’s a very different ride from the horses she’s brought along for the Makeover in previous years, and this one is pushing her in new ways as a trainer. We talk about what that process actually looks like day to day, including the moments that feel messy and the ones where things suddenly start to come together. We also dig into the two videos that recently went viral and the reaction that followed. One features Dude, an OTTB Chelsey took on and carefully rehabbed after a difficult start. Chelsey shares the full story behind that video, how things unfolded online, and why she still believes in showing the real side of retraining off-track Thoroughbreds. It’s an honest conversation about horsemanship, perspective, and staying committed to the horse in front of you, even when the internet has opinions.

T3 · E6

9 abr 2026

40:58

S3 E5: Putting the Horse First: Chelsey O’Brien’s RRP Makeover Story and Lessons in Horsemanship (Part 1)

Chelsey O’Brien returns to OTTB on Tap for a long-awaited catch-up, and this one starts with the real story behind her 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Makeover experience. Chelsey, a Northern Virginia trainer who rides for Pastured Place, is known for restarting off-track Thoroughbreds across multiple disciplines. In this episode, she walks us through what it actually takes to bring not one, but two OTTBs to the RRP. From hunters and Western dressage to barrels and ranch work, she shares how she develops versatile sport horses and why letting the horse choose its path is central to her training philosophy. This episode dives deep into the highs, the pressure, and the unexpected challenges of the RRP Makeover. Chelsey opens up about preparing young Thoroughbreds for competition, managing multiple disciplines, and what happens when things do not go according to plan. From historic rainstorms at the Kentucky Horse Park to tough decisions about scratching classes and putting the horse first, this is an honest look at the reality of competing OTTBs at a major event. We also talk about her experience competing in the Real Rider Cup, a unique event that raises money for Thoroughbred aftercare, where Chelsey stepped back into the jumper ring in a completely different setting and challenge. You will hear Chelsey’s perspective on horsemanship under pressure, how setbacks can reinforce your training philosophy, and why the makeover is just one small part of a much bigger journey with these horses. This conversation is packed with insight for anyone training an OTTB, considering the Retired Racehorse Project, or navigating the balance between competition goals and doing right by the horse. In Part 1, we cover Chelsey’s RRP experience from start to finish, including both horses, the lessons learned, and the moments that tested everything she believes about training and partnership. Part 2 will pick up with life after the makeover & the Real Rider Cup, and what happens when a training video goes viral.

T3 · E5

2 abr 2026

54:38

S3 E4: She Set a Top 10 Goal and Achieved It: Stephanie Parkot’s 2025 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover Recap | OTTB Competitive Trail & Freestyle

In this episode of OTTB on Tap, we catch up with Stephanie Parkot for a recap of her journey to the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover with her Off Track Thoroughbred (OTTB), Sterling Honor. Stephanie went into the RRP Thoroughbred Makeover with a clear goal. She wanted to finish in the Top 10 in Competitive Trail. Not only did she set that goal, she achieved it. Stephanie shares how she adopted Sterling Honor through New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program and what it took to prepare a young Off Track Thoroughbred for the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover at the Kentucky Horse Park. From months of training and hauling out to obstacle courses, to a last minute lameness scare just weeks before the event, Stephanie walks us through the real experience of preparing an OTTB for the RRP Makeover. We talk about why she chose to compete in both Competitive Trail and Freestyle, two disciplines that test a horse’s confidence, focus, and partnership with the rider. Stephanie describes how obstacle work helped Sterling develop emotional regulation and bravery, and how cross training can benefit any horse transitioning from racing to a second career. Stephanie also shares the story behind her fun 80s themed freestyle routine, what it was like performing freestyle in the covered arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, and how she and Sterling worked through the challenging water obstacle during the Competitive Trail finals. Her creative solution in the water helped secure a Top 10 finish and marked a proud moment in her Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover journey. Whether you are planning to compete in the RRP Thoroughbred Makeover, retraining your own Off Track Thoroughbred, or simply interested in how racehorses transition to new careers, this episode offers an honest look at the preparation, persistence, and partnership required to bring an OTTB from the racetrack to a successful showing at the Retired Racehorse Project. Stephanie also reflects on what she learned from her second trip to the Kentucky Horse Park, how the experience shaped her approach to training Off Track Thoroughbreds, and what comes next for Sterling Honor after the 2025 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover. This episode discusses the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover, training Off Track Thoroughbreds, OTTB Competitive Trail, OTTB Freestyle, New Vocations adoption, and preparing Thoroughbreds for second careers after racing.

T3 · E4

13 mar 2026

1:03:22

S3 E3: Why OTTBs Belong in the Hunter Ring with Madison Barnett & Caden Nolt

What happens when you take an off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB) into the hunter ring and stop treating it like an “alternate” to a warmblood? In this episode of OTTB on Tap, Niamh flies solo for our first truly hunter/jumper-focused OTTB episode with Pennsylvania pro Madison Barnett of MB Equine (USEA event rider + hunter/jumper trainer) and standout junior rider Caden Nolt. Madison breaks down why Thoroughbreds became the backbone of her program, what retraining her first OTTB taught her about horsemanship, and why OTTBs often “expect” riders to show up like professionals. We talk cross-training hunters with eventing (conditioning, bravery, brain engagement), why some Thoroughbreds thrive when the work stays interesting, and how that forward-thinking approach can create a more rideable, competitive hunter. Caden shares what it’s like producing a Thoroughbred in the hunters as a junior—including riding Geo Lemon, his one-eyed Thoroughbred gelding, and navigating the (very real) bias against a one-eyed horse in hunter derbies. He also explains how eventing experience (including riding with William Fox-Pitt) has influenced his hunter style—especially when the fences get bigger, the turns get tighter, and the questions get scarier. We also dig into the big-picture conversation: if we want OTTBs to be taken seriously in the performance hunter divisions, riders have to actually put them in the ring against warmbloods—and have them prepared to win. Madison and Caden share practical advice on starting OTTBs over fences, confirming lead changes (without over-schooling), and what they look for in a Thoroughbred prospect for hunters. In this episode, you’ll hear about: OTTB retraining for hunters: what matters most early (and what doesn’t) Why Thoroughbreds can make riders better: faster thinking, full-picture horsemanship Cross-training hunters with eventing: conditioning, boldness, and keeping brains fresh One-eyed horse in the hunter ring: rules, perceptions, and how Geo Lemon proves people wrong The mindset shift: moving from Thoroughbred-only divisions to performance divisions Caden’s goals for Junior Hunter Finals + bringing along a new OTTB prospect If you’re Googling things like “best OTTB for hunters,” “how to retrain an off-track Thoroughbred for hunter/jumper,” “OTTB lead changes,” “Thoroughbred hunter derby training,” or “can a one-eyed horse compete in hunters,” this conversation is for you.

T3 · E3

12 feb 2026

37:16

S3 E2: “There’s No Prize for the Harder Horse” An OTTB Buyer Reality Check | OTTB on Tap Unscripted Vol. 1.

Plus, Niamh shares a fascinating lesson on rider biomechanics using a mechanical horse. In this first-ever OTTB on Tap Unscripted episode, we hit record with no outline and dive straight into an OTTB buyer reality check that every rider needs to hear. We start with an honest conversation about rider self-evaluation and why choosing the right Off-Track Thoroughbred should begin with you, not the horse. From green horse readiness and riding confidence to time commitment, training support, barn environment, and major life changes, we break down the questions that matter most before you shop. If you have ever been tempted by the flashiest or hardest horse in the barn, this episode explains why there is truly no prize for choosing the harder horse. From there, the conversation expands on biomechanics as Niamh walks through her experience riding a mechanical horse equipped with sensors that track balance, symmetry, and position. The lesson highlights how subtle physical habits affect real horses and why self-awareness in the saddle is a critical part of being a responsible OTTB owner and rider. This episode launches our new Unscripted series, where we trade formal outlines for candid, off-the-cuff conversations about OTTBs, riding, and the realities of horse ownership. It is a Patreon-exclusive episode for both paid tiers, and we are also releasing it on our public feed as a preview of the extra content available on Patreon. Check us out (you can join as a free member): https://www.patreon.com/OTTBOnTap How a Fake Horse Can Help You Ride a Real One: https://tinyurl.com/RideAFakeHorse

T3 · E2

23 ene 2026

58:16

S3 E1: OTTB on Tap Returns: Burnout, Balance & the Year of the Horse

After a season of intense growth, big goals, and even bigger emotions, OTTB on Tap is back for Season 3. In this return episode, Niamh and Emily come up for air and reflect honestly on burnout, boundaries, and what it really looks like to fully commit to something and then choose a new way forward. Inspired by a quote from Matthew McConaughey about the clarity that comes from fully committing instead of living in the limbo of a half-assed effort, and a reminder from Taylor Swift that energy is expensive, this episode sets the tone for a more grounded chapter for the podcast and for life with off-track Thoroughbreds. We reflect on the emotional and mental load of 2025, including the aftermath of the Retired Racehorse Project Makeover, and talk openly about equestrian burnout, OTTB identity beyond competition, and what sustainable progress really looks like for horses and humans alike. This conversation centers on non-linear OTTB journeys, rest without guilt, and redefining success in the OTTB retraining world. Spotify Wrapped 2025 and Standout Episodes We also dive into our Spotify Wrapped 2025 data, celebrating just how much OTTB on Tap grew this past year and what that growth has meant to us and the community. We each share our most memorable episodes: Niamh’s picks S2 E27, Ramon Moya S2 E16, Recycled Racehorse Falconry S2 E24, Ali Kuhn & Little Hail Emily’s picks S2 E7 & 8, Tom & Clare Mansmann S2 E20 & 21, Aubrey Graham S2 E31 & 32, Shannon Riley Honorable mentions, because we truly love every episode, include Trotty by Nature, Turning For Home, Pastured Place, and our RRP Chronicles trainers Amanda Chance, Harley Whittaker, Stephanie Parkot, and Chelsey O’Brien. Looking Ahead to 2026, The Year of the Horse We frame 2026 as the Year of the Horse, a season focused on intentional movement, partnership, and forward motion that feels right rather than constant output. We also share how OTTB on Tap is evolving in Season 3, with more conversational episodes, listener involvement, and space for honest conversations about balance, mental health, and life after big goals. This episode is for anyone navigating life after the RRP, questioning hustle culture in horse sport, or learning how to stay connected to their OTTB and themselves without burning out. Listener Giveaway! Win an “Easily Distracted by OTTBs” T-Shirt We are giving away three OTTB on Tap “Easily Distracted by OTTBs” t-shirts, one winner for each prompt below. To enter, respond to one or more prompts by: Leaving a comment on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or Commenting on the episode post on social media Listener Prompts Year of the Snake: If the Year of the Snake is about shedding skin, what are you no longer carrying into the next season? Year of the Horse: If 2026 is about movement that feels right, where would you go first? One Word Check-In: One word to describe 2025 and one word you are carrying into 2026. Important If you comment on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, please email us at ottbontap@gmail.com to let us know you entered and include your display name or a screenshot. Podcast platforms are often anonymous, and we want to be able to contact you if you win. 1 winner will be selected per prompt. Follow us on Patreon, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!

T3 · E1

30 dic 2025

59:50

Temporada 2

S2 E35: Expect the Unexpected: Harley Whittaker on Training OTTBs for Dressage, Rider Fitness & the Road to Kentucky | RRP Trainer Chronicles

In this RRP Trainer Chronicles update from OTTB on Tap, we sit down again with dressage trainer Harley Whittaker of HW Dressage in Kirkwood, Pennsylvania to hear the latest on her 2025 RRP Makeover partner, Juancho (“Jack”). Harley shares the ups and downs of Jack’s first dressage show experience, why she’s choosing to keep him in dressage as his primary discipline, and what kind of home she sees for him after the Makeover. Beyond Jack’s journey, Harley gives us an inside look at her training business, the horses currently in her barn, and even a recent appearance she made on JJ Tate’s podcast. She offers a practical training tip for green horses and OTTBs—breaking down how she adjusts her approach between Jack, a Thoroughbred gelding, and Navy, a young warmblood mare. We also dive into Harley’s passion for rider fitness, exploring how her six-day-a-week gym routine translates into better feel, empathy, and effectiveness in the saddle. Harley explains how fitness outside the barn supports her students too, and shares advice for riders looking to get started on their own programs. With the Makeover countdown on, Harley reflects on the biggest lesson Jack has taught her (“expect the unexpected”) and looks ahead to more off-property practice before they head to Kentucky. Whether you’re an OTTB owner, dressage enthusiast, or rider wanting to balance horse training with personal fitness, this conversation with Harley is packed with insights and inspiration.

T2 · E35

18 sept 2025

51:59

S2 E34 | Double the OTTBs, Double the Disciplines: Chelsey O’Brien’s Journey with Peppy & Fuzzy | RRP Trainer Chronicles

In this installment of RRP Trainer Chronicles, an OTTB on Tap Original Series, we catch up with returning trainer Chelsey O’Brien as her 2025 RRP Makeover journey takes shape. This year, Chelsey is retraining two very different OTTBs—each with their own story and style. ✨ Peppy (JC name: The Pepsodent Show) has stepped into the hunter ring, showing the elegance Thoroughbreds can bring to the discipline. His second Makeover division is still undecided, but one thing is certain—he’ll be available for adoption through Pastured Place after the competition, ready to shine in a new home. ✨ Fuzzy Wuzzy, her fiery mare “built like a French Bulldog,” is tackling barrels and ranch work—proving that OTTBs can excel in Western arenas just as much as English ones. Chelsey opens up about how she decided which disciplines fit each horse, the obstacles they’ve faced along the way, and how she balances her roles as a trainer, breeder, and mom. She also takes us behind the scenes at the Virginia Thoroughbred Association Yearling Futurity, where she proudly presented homebred colts and fillies just a year after foaling them out. With her philosophy of striving to be 1% better every day, and her belief that training is an art form, Chelsey shares one of her go-to OTTB training tips that listeners can put into practice. If you love stories of OTTB versatility, retraining insights, and the heart behind the Retired Racehorse Project Makeover, this episode is a must-listen.

T2 · E34

4 sept 2025

1:24:48

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