What’s really happening in your horse’s brain when the pressure is on — and why does it matter for how we train? In this episode, neuroscientist and lifelong horse trainer Dr. Janet Jones (author of Horse Brain, Human Brain and the upcoming A Horse’s World) joins the podcast to unpack the science behind the prey animal brain at every level of performance.

We get into what’s actually happening neurologically when a horse is stressed at a show, why confinement and tight tack make fear worse, how trust is built (and how quickly it can be broken), the difference between learning and performing in the horse’s brain, why drilling destroys motivation while practice builds it, how surprise-based rewards create stronger neural connections than predictable food treats, and why the best thing most riders can do is simply slow down. Dr. Jones also shares why a horse’s skin is more sensitive than a human fingertip, why it takes at least a year of daily interaction to build real trust, and how mixing disciplines keeps horses mentally and physically healthier.

Whether you’re starting a young horse, competing at the upper levels, or just trying to better your relationship with your horse — this one’s packed with science you can actually use.

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