The Journey On Podcast: Revisited with Dr. Stephen Peters

Episode Title: Revisited: Dr. Stephen Peters
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Host: Warwick Schiller
Guest: Dr. Stephen Peters

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Journey On Podcast, host Warwick Schiller welcomes back a familiar and insightful guest, Dr. Stephen Peters. Having previously appeared in the podcast's inaugural season, Dr. Peters returns to share his transformative journey intertwining neuroscience, personal growth, and horsemanship.

Dr. Stephen Peters' Return and Message

Warwick begins by reading a heartfelt message from Dr. Peters, highlighting how Warwick's initial podcast appearance inspired him to embark on new intellectual and creative ventures.

Dr. Stephen Peters [00:45]:
"I wanted to let you know what you helped inspire in me after we had your podcast together in which I discussed being an evidence-based guy who was thinking outside the box. Well, I never went back in the box..."

This message sets the tone for a deep and enriching conversation about expanding the boundaries of traditional horsemanship through neuroscience and creative expression.

New Book: Science and Practice of Evidence Based Horsemanship

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Dr. Peters' forthcoming book, "The Science and Practice of Evidence Based Horsemanship." Co-authored with Martin Black, this work promises a more in-depth exploration compared to their previous collaboration.

Dr. Stephen Peters [06:04]:
"This time we have a warehouse full of reference material, so we'll satisfy anybody who wants to read. It's the science and practice of. So it's a really a deep dive into the science... it's written in such a way... for the lay public, for the horse owner, for the trainer."

The book delves into neuroanatomy, neuroendocrinology, and practical horsemanship, enriched with illustrations and photographs by Kim Stone, aiming to serve as both a reference guide and an academic textbook.

Neuropoetry and Neuroscience

Dr. Peters introduces an innovative concept he calls "Neuropoetry," blending neuroscience with poetic expression to allow individuals to experience complex scientific ideas through emotional and sensory engagement.

Dr. Stephen Peters [12:06]:
"Neuropoetry... people can experience complex science through a felt sense through their nervous system."

He emphasizes that this approach bridges the gap between scientific jargon and lived experience, making neuroscience more accessible and emotionally resonant.

Neuroplasticity and Personal Growth

The conversation delves into the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to rewire itself based on experiences. Dr. Peters explains how intentional practices can reshape neural pathways to foster personal growth and resilience.

Dr. Stephen Peters [54:51]:
"Neuroplasticity is basically the ability to wire and rewire your own brain."

He shares personal strategies, such as mindfulness exercises and intentional reflection, to reinforce positive neural connections and diminish negative ones.

Communication with Horses through Nervous System Synchronization

A pivotal theme is the synchronization between human and horse nervous systems. Dr. Peters advocates for a communication style rooted in empathy and alignment rather than force, likening it to a "dance" between partners.

Dr. Stephen Peters [116:45]:
"If I can communicate nervous system to nervous system, then there's a connection there. Sometimes I don't have to say a word and that's... very calm and I still feel I've communicated."

This approach emphasizes understanding and mirroring the horse's natural rhythms, fostering a deeper and more intuitive partnership.

Personal Experiences with Psychedelics and Emotional Development

Dr. Peters candidly discusses his experiences with psychedelics, describing how substances like ketamine and psilocybin catalyzed profound emotional and sensory awakenings.

Dr. Stephen Peters [64:51]:
"I had this sensation in my solar plexus moving around... emotions that I'd never experienced before."

He correlates these experiences with enhanced emotional awareness and connectivity, reinforcing his belief in the interplay between neuroscience and personal growth.

The Importance of Early Nurturing and Resilience

Highlighting research on early childhood experiences, Dr. Peters underscores the critical role of nurturing in developing resilience against stress.

Dr. Stephen Peters [35:59]:
"They had... a lot of nurturing... they were highly resilient to stress because cortisol was not having an impact on them."

Drawing parallels to horsemanship, he emphasizes the necessity of positive early interactions to foster trust and stability in horses.

Practices for Self-Awareness and Brain Rewiring

Both Warwick and Dr. Peters share practical techniques for enhancing self-awareness and intentionally rewiring the brain. These include:

• Walking Meditations: Engaging with nature mindfully to stimulate sensory awareness.
• Daily Affirmations: Creating and reciting mantras to reinforce positive neural pathways.
• Intentional Reflection: Actively recognizing and reinforcing positive experiences to embed them into the brain's structure.

Warwick Schiller [106:44]:
"Self-awareness is crucial to get out of your head and be in the moment."

Future Directions and Conclusions

As the episode draws to a close, Dr. Peters outlines his future endeavors, which extend beyond horsemanship into broader applications of neuroscience and creativity.

Dr. Stephen Peters [111:39]:
"Neuropoetry will be... a neuroscientist guide to connection with the universe."

He envisions a future where scientific rigor and creative expression coalesce to enhance human and animal relationships, advocating for continuous personal evolution and intentional living.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Stephen Peters [04:01]:
  "We've talked about a return trip when you let me out of the box in terms of my thinking and I've never gone back in."

• Dr. Stephen Peters [12:02]:
  "Neuropoetry."

• Dr. Stephen Peters [34:38]:
  "Love and connection is not a part of our biology or is something that seems out there... it is biological."

• Dr. Stephen Peters [54:51]:
  "Neuroplasticity is basically the ability to wire and rewire your own brain."

• Dr. Stephen Peters [113:16]:
  "Standing still can be a powerful action in communication and healing."

Conclusion

This episode of The Journey On Podcast offers a profound exploration of the intersections between neuroscience, personal growth, and horsemanship. Dr. Stephen Peters' insights into neuroplasticity, neuropoetry, and empathetic communication present a holistic approach to building meaningful connections with horses and fostering continuous self-improvement. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on how intentional practices can reshape their neural landscapes, enhance emotional awareness, and deepen their partnerships with animals.

For more information on Dr. Peters' work and upcoming book, visit horsebrainscience.info or find his books on Amazon and other major retailers.

Thank you for reading this summary. For the full experience and deeper insights, consider listening to the episode directly on The Journey On Podcast.