Remembering ‘The Man Who Listens to Horses’
Summary
This Fresh Air episode honors the late horse trainer Monty Roberts, featuring a 1997 interview where he explains his gentle "join-up" method based on observing wild mustangs. Roberts contrasts his non-violent approach with traditional breaking techniques and discusses his stunt riding career, his 30-year friendship with Queen Elizabeth II, and his work with troubled youth. The show also includes reviews of Jason Moran’s Duke Ellington tribute album and the new Anthony Bourdain biopic, *Tony*.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Monty Roberts' death and legacy
Contrasting traditional breaking with 'join-up'
The mechanics of horse language and join-up
Learning from wild mustangs in the Sierra Nevada
Case study: Rehabilitating the racehorse Song of Africa
Monty Roberts' career as a Hollywood stunt rider
Bull riding championships and empathy for bulls
Fostering 47 children using horse training principles
Back surgery, aging, and favorite horse Johnny Tibio
Review: Jason Moran Plays Duke Ellington
Review: The film biography 'Tony' about Anthony Bourdain
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