This episode of The Ride Podcast is brought to you by Ride TV
For the veterans and first responders who visit War Horses for Veterans, time spent horseback is about more than learning to ride. Founded in 2014 in Stilwell, Kansas, the nonprofit provides fully funded, five-day equine experiences that introduce participants to horsemanship, riding, roping, and working cattle. But as Marine Corps veteran and program director Jake Greenlief explains, the relationships formed through the program often extend far beyond the ranch, creating a community that continues to support one another long after participants return home.
For Army veteran and cow horse professional Taylor Gillespie, the organization brings together two worlds that share many similarities: military service and the cowboy lifestyle. That connection was on full display during the 2026 War Horse Challenge, where veteran Josh McElroy teamed up with professional trainer Matt Koch and HA Dual Chic to claim the championship. Although McElroy grew up horseback, competing in front of thousands of spectators at Will Rogers Coliseum introduced him to an entirely new side of the horse industry and gave him a new challenge to pursue.
In this episode of The Ride podcast, Greenlief, Gillespie, and McElroy share how War Horses for Veterans is making an impact both in and out of the show pen. From the friendships built through the program to the adrenaline of McElroy’s championship run, the conversation offers a closer look at how horses are helping veterans build confidence, find community, and discover new opportunities.
Listen to the full episode of The Ride podcast and watch McElroy’s winning War Horse Challenge run on Ride TV.
Learn more about War Horses for Veterans at WHFV.org.