The 2021 Heels Down Spark Awards aims to highlight creative individuals making their mark in the equestrian industry.
The winners will be selected by a panel of expert judges (75%) and a public vote in the Heels Down Spark, our daily equestrian newsletter (25%). The judges have weighed in. Now it’s your turn.
The broadcasting category is open to podcasters and video creators.
Meet the finalists here. And don’t forget to cast your vote on Friday, August 20, in the Heels Down Spark. Subscribe now.
Jamie Baldanza
“For centuries horses have ploughed our fields and carried us into battle. But today, they’re caught in the crossfire over land use rights and a shrinking wild landscape, and America’s wild horses are struggling to survive.
Join wildlife photographers Jamie Baldanza and Deb Lee Carson on their mission to document America’s most elusive herds of wild horses and examine their politically complicated lives.
In the docuseries Wild Lands Wild Horses, beautiful cinematography is woven into exclusive conversations with scientists, ranchers, government officials, and wildlife advocates, who — despite their differences — all share the same goal:
TO KEEP THE WEST WILD.”
Watch a teaser to the series here and learn more about it here.
Cara Taylor Swift & Kimberly Beer
“We help business owners train their animal-based business to be successful, profitable, joyful and sustainable. The Business Animal Podcast shares stories, techniques, strategies, and inspiration just for businesses in the equine, pet and agricultural space. On each episode we discuss subjects that address the unique aspects of the animal and pet industry. We pack in a lot of practical knowledge that animal-based business owners can use immediately to start, grow and prosper in both business and life. Recent topics that have people talking are: Social Proof, Choosing the Perfect Marketing Images, Building Your Sustainability Squad, and Evolved Email Marketing.
The tone of our podcast is lighthearted, fun, and honest. We strive to present deeply valuable information in a way listeners can both learn from AND enjoy. Laughter is welcomed and real honesty — especially when we are discussing a difficult subject — is always appreciated by our listeners.”
Listen to the Business Animal Podcast here and here, and learn more about the show here.
Elisa Wallace
“My YouTube channel documents my career as a professional equestrian and my relationships with my horses. Though the stories of my horses, including the ups and the downs, I hope to inspire riders to grow in their equine relationships, and to educate non-riders in their appreciation of these amazing animals.
I am continually inspired by how forgiving horses are. My horses inspire me to communicate better and to have more patience in all areas of my life.”
Watch some of Elisa’s work here and here. Learn more about Elisa here.
Jenni Bush
“I am the host and coach behind the Equine Business Podcast. I teach equine entrepreneurs to build stable businesses using horses. I try to use analogies that us horsefolk know to help us understand the world of business.
I always believe that in training horses we train ourselves and that they can teach us how to be better in every area of our lives.”
Listen to an episode here and here. Find out more about the show here.
Subscribe to the Spark to learn more about our finalists all week and to cast your vote on Friday.