The Groom Box: Amateur Edition

Crysta & Erin chat with Paige Stroud, 2025 WSQHA Pro Horsemen of the Year! Paige tells us about growing up as a horse kid, building her program, switching from All Arounders to Ranch Riders and more! Paige shares how she feels she has been an asset to the industry by having school horses and giving lessons to any age and experience of rider! We agree! 

Crysta and Erin chat about their experience at the 2026 AQHA Convention at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas last week.

Crysta and Erin visit with Jim Edwards, an AQHA, NSBA, APHA and more carded breed judge. Jim is an AQHA-certified show manager and steward. We talk to Jim for a behind-the-scenes look at the horse show world. Jim shares insights from working countless events each year—both nationally and internationally—and discuss judging standards, show management, and what it takes to keep shows running. This episode offers valuable perspective for exhibitors.

This week, we’re sitting down with Kristen and Niki to talk all things Spring Fling—the Paint Horse and all breed horse show coming to the Oregon Horse Center in Eugene, Oregon, March 20–22, 2026.
Two clubs team up year‑round to make this one of the Pacific Northwest’s must‑attend Paint events. From Chrome Cash, Paynt points, Color Bonus and Honor Roll points to WRHA approval, Never‑Won‑a‑Buckle classes, and Second Chance pattern classes, the Spring Fling truly has something for every kind of exhibitor.
We dig into how this partnership grew into adding an extra show day, moving to a new venue, and creating the kind of exhibitor‑first atmosphere that keeps riders coming back. You’ll also hear a bit of the “secret sauce” that makes Northwest shows thrive—and why this year’s Spring Fling is shaping up to be the best one yet.
The Spring Fling

Crysta and Erin host Rachael Pollzzie of River Run Show Pads for a behind-the-scenes look at building an equine business. Rachael shares how she started her company, the process of sourcing saddle blankets, and how she creates her signature designs. The conversation also dives into her show clothing rentals and consignment program, offering insight for riders interested in both entrepreneurship and the show industry.

Crysta and Erin visit with Sarah Donahou, Marketing Manager for Standlee Forage, to talk all things forage options. Sarah explains the differences between pelleted forage, cubed forage, treats, and other products available from Standlee, along with how they fit into modern feeding programs. We learn about the process Standlee follows to ensure the highest quality bagged forage. This episode offers helpful insight for horse owners looking to make informed forage choices for their animals.

Crysta and Erin host Kory Kumar, the APHA-elected director for Washington State, for an in-depth conversation about proposed APHA rule changes and how the rule-making process works. Kory breaks down what changes are being discussed, how members can get involved, and why these updates matter to the industry. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone wanting to better understand how decisions are shaped within the association.

Crysta and Erin visit with Stacy Dial, owner of Kathy’s Show Equipment and Sterling Saddles, to dive into the rich history behind the iconic tack company. Stacy shares how her journey with Kathy’s began, the craftsmanship behind their saddles, halters, and their awards selection. This episode offers a fascinating look at what goes into creating top-tier show equipment for the equine industry.

Crysta and Erin visit with Judy Schomer to explore the Central Washington University Equine Science Certificate Program and what makes it such a valuable opportunity for horse enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Judy—owner and trainer of X & O Horses and Cattle—shares her experience in the equine world, the goals of the program and what this year looks like for her!

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Williams, a longtime leader within the Washington State Quarter Horse Association. Over the years, Jeff has served in multiple roles on the board—including Vice President, where he oversaw horse shows and helped shape the association’s direction.
You’ll hear the story behind the Region One Scholarship—how it began, the vision that inspired it, and the ways it has grown to support future generations of horse enthusiasts.
Find out more about scholarships here
And mark your calendars! The WSQHA Fiesta & Region One Scholarship Show returns August 6–9, 2026 in Monroe, WA. Find out more about the show and others hosted by WSQHA here