EPISODE 4.2
What can a horse teach us about love, relationships — and ourselves?
In this episode of Let’s Talk About Sex, Really, Dr. Alisa Kriegel is joined by author Erin O’Malley, whose book The Brat and the Bullfighter tells the intertwined story of Erin and Artie, a Lusitano horse who came into her life after a journey of his own.
Erin describes the book as a hybrid memoir — the story of two beings who both knew what it was like to be moved from place to place without much choice, and who ultimately found something in one another: stability, connection and a sense of home.
What begins as a conversation about horses soon becomes something much bigger.
Alisa and Erin talk about the relationships that challenge us, the importance of staying curious and continuing to evolve, and what happens when another being becomes a mirror for parts of ourselves we haven’t fully understood yet.
They explore Erin’s experience growing up as an Army brat, feeling like an outsider, finding community, the importance of female friendships, and the rare connections — with people or animals — that make us feel truly seen.
And, of course, they talk about horses.
Erin shares what years with Artie have taught her about being present and authentic, giving others grace, letting go of frustration, and listening to what is being communicated even when no words are spoken.
Because sometimes the relationships that change us most aren’t necessarily the ones we expected.
Learn more about Erin O’Malley and The Brat and the Bullfighter:
Erin O’Malley — Official Website
Read my story: “From Sexless Marriage to Sex Goddess, A Memoir”