Episode 6 - Mental Health in the Equine Industry

Episode 6 - Mental Health in the Equine Industry

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of mental health challenges, including personal experiences that some listeners may find distressing. Please listen with care and seek support if needed. In this honest and deeply personal episode, Nat shares her journey with mental health and the role horses have played throughout it. We explore the unique relationship many equestrians have with their horses, how the equine world can provide comfort, purpose, and healing, but also how it can sometimes add pressure, stress, and emotional challenges. Nat opens up about her own experiences, reflecting on both the positive and difficult aspects of navigating mental health while being involved with horses. Together, we discuss the importance of recognising when we need support, breaking down stigma, and having more open conversations about mental wellbeing within the equestrian community. This is a heartfelt conversation that many riders will relate to, whether you've experienced mental health struggles yourself or want to better understand those who have. You can now find our support group on Facebook by searching #MakeItStronger, our LinkTree or clicking here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FpqtWQjg9/?mibextid=wwXIfr 💜 Need support?Riders Minds – Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of everyone in the equestrian community.🌐 https://ridersminds.org [https://ridersminds.org/]📞 0800 088 2073📱 Text: 07480 488 103 Samaritans – Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for anyone struggling to cope.📞 116 123 (free from any phone in the UK and ROI)🌐 https://www.samaritans.org [https://www.samaritans.org/] Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, and you don't have to face things alone. 💜

Episode 5 - Horsemanship with Mickey Gavin

This week we're joined by Mickey Gavin, natural horsemanship specialist, horseman, storyteller, and all-round character! Mickey shares his wealth of experience working with horses, his thoughts on building better partnerships through understanding and communication, and some invaluable lessons learned throughout his career. Along the way, you'll hear plenty of his trademark anecdotes—because Mickey seems to have a story for absolutely everything—and more than a few laughs too. Whether you're interested in natural horsemanship, improving your relationship with your horse, or simply enjoy listening to great stories from a lifelong horseman, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Episode 4 - The Equinesphere

This week we're diving into the "Equinesphere", the horse world's own version of the online echo chamber. From influencer culture and social media pressure to judgement, jealousy, horse-world politics and the strange ways the internet has changed how we ride, compete and connect, we're asking some uncomfortable questions about modern equestrian life.

Episode 3 - Eventing at 40

This week we’re joined by our very first guest — Jade McNeil. We chat all about returning to riding and eventing later in life, balancing horses with business, family life and motherhood, and the realities of chasing your goals after time away from the sport. From navigating confidence and challenges, to somehow convincing husbands to fully buy into the horsey chaos… this episode is honest, relatable and full of laughs. Jade shares her journey back into eventing, what’s helped her along the way, and why it’s never too late to go after the things you love. Perfect for anyone juggling horses with “real life” — or anyone needing a reminder that your riding journey doesn’t have an expiry date.

Episode 2 - Lessons & Training

In this episode, Nat & Tor talk all things lessons and training — including the classic equestrian pastime of coach hopping, trying to decipher coaching techniques, and attempting to improve your riding without selling a kidney for weekly lessons. A very honest chat about progress, pressure, and figuring out what actually works for you and your horse.