Ep. 43 HYS - Opportunities & Challenges: Brian Mullins Keeps Paying Attention

Hitting Your Stride -- The Equestrian Elements Life Coaching podcast with Tracey Mitchell

Even for the most dedicated equine athletes, there are things about being a farrier they don't know. Brian Mullins CJF ASF, owner of Mullins Farrier and host of the Mullins Farrier Podcast, joins Hitting Your Stride to shed light on all of the big and small things that go into being a farrier and what specifically led him down that road. He talks about his profession being good for the soul and how he acts as both a farrier and an unofficial 'therapist' during the same call.

Acting as both the first line of defence and the first voice in support of the horse, Brian talks about the bumps and bruises that are accepted daily occurrences for he and his brothers and sisters in the industry. And while he trades those stories freely, the real meat of the episode comes when Brian opens up about how he came across the job and got hooked almost right away. Starting on 'Old MacDonald's Farm' (his first name was Harold - who knew?!), Brian worked his way up from a curious 12-year-old to a young adult who came back to farriery when he happened to sell Andy Vergut a horse trailer and then took him up on an offer to ride along for a day.

Tracey and Brian open up a fascinating conversation about the relationships that are forged between fellow farriers, but just as importantly the relationships that have developed between farriers, vets and other equine health care professionals because of the recognition that they're all working towards a common goal. Brian's drive for learning and a hunger for perfecting his art show his passion for his craft and constantly improving his skills by learning whatever he can wherever he can.

The two share a few laughs as Brian talks about the different farrier competitions, as he mentions the three benefits of taking part in those competitions. And while talking about his podcast and upcoming trip to the UK, Tracey and Brian discuss the need to set boundaries, the importance of self-reflection and listening to your body. Brian caps off his thoughts by reflecting on what he would say to his 12-year-old self - some sage advice for everyone.

Brian Mullins CJF ASF can be found on Facebook and Instagram, and his website is www.mullinsfarrier.com.