The Equitas Podcast

Horses, Money and Taking Control with Charlotte Watson

In this episode of the Equitas Podcast, I’m joined by Charlotte Watson, a UK based financial adviser, equestrian, business owner and mum. We talk about horses, money, motherhood, business, and why so many of us find financial conversations uncomfortable. Charlotte shares her journey from equine science lecturer to financial adviser, and how she built a business that supports people in better understanding their finances in a way that feels practical and approachable. We also discuss the realities of being an equestrian and managing money, from horse costs and household budgets to emergency funds, income protection, wills, pensions and the importance of asking the difficult “what if” questions before life forces them. Charlotte also speaks openly about being a woman in a male dominated industry, imposter syndrome, maternity leave as a business owner, and using social media to build trust. This episode includes useful reminders for horse owners, self employed women, mums, and anyone who has ever felt unsure where to start with money. Please note: This episode is for general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Financial rules and tax treatment vary depending on individual circumstances and location.

Emphasising Integrity and Holistic Care in Saddle Fitting with Jess Parsons

In this episode, Jess Parsons shares her journey from horse obsession to independent saddle fitter, emphasising the importance of honesty, service, and holistic approaches to horse welfare. Her insights challenge the industry norms and highlight the value of building trust and long-term relationships with clients and their horses. Key Topics: * Jess's background and motivation for becoming a saddle fitter * The gap in saddle fitting: holistic approach including body work * The philosophy of honesty over sales and the importance of integrity * How to choose a qualified saddle fitter: qualifications and personal credibility * Common saddle fitting issues and misconceptions in the UK and industry * The importance of service over product sales and independent advice * The role of bit fitting, biomechanics, and rider posture in horse performance * Overcoming imposter syndrome and being underestimated as a woman in the industry * The rewarding nature of small improvements and client success stories * Building trust and genuine relationships for horse welfare and owner confidence Connect with Jess: * Jess Parsons Equine on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jessparsonsequine/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/jessparsonsequine]

Equestrian Mum Diaries: Episode 5 - My Postpartum Fitness with Sarah Elebert

In this episode of Equestrian Mum Diaries, I share my personal experience of navigating my postpartum body and fitness after having three children - and how each journey has looked completely different. This is a very honest and personal reflection on what worked for me, what didn’t, and what I’ve learned the third time around. From returning to riding, to rebuilding strength, to finding a routine that actually fits into life with young children - this episode is about doing things in a way that feels supportive rather than pressured. I talk about the importance of consistency over intensity, listening to your body, and letting go of timelines, expectations, and comparisons. It’s not about “bouncing back” — it’s about slowly finding your way back to feeling strong, capable, and like yourself again. If you’re in a postpartum season, or finding your way back to movement, this is a gentle reminder to take the pressure off and meet yourself where you are. If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. You can connect with me on Instagram: @sarahelebert [https://www.instagram.com/sarahelebert/] Or follow Equitas at @equitasworldwide [https://www.instagram.com/equitasworldwide/] Chat soon, Sarah x

Equestrian Mum Diaries: Episode 4 - The Fear of Being Alone with Sarah Elebert

In this episode of Equestrian Mum Diaries, I talk about something I didn’t expect to feel as strongly as I did — the fear of being alone with my children. As equestrians, we’re often independent, capable, and used to carrying responsibility. We’re comfortable in our own company, used to caring for others, and making decisions every day. But motherhood brought a very different kind of responsibility, and with it, a level of vulnerability I hadn’t anticipated. In this short and honest episode, I share my experience of those early days of parenting, the pressure of feeling solely responsible, and how that can put your nervous system on high alert. I also talk about the need for shared responsibility, the comfort of having people around, and how my confidence has grown over time. This is a gentle reminder that if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unsure in those moments — you are not alone, and it is more normal than we often allow ourselves to believe. If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. You can connect with me on Instagram: @sarahelebert [https://www.instagram.com/sarahelebert/] Or follow Equitas at @equitasworldwide [https://www.instagram.com/equitasworldwide/] Chat soon, Sarah x

Jackie Potts - International Grooms Association

In this episode, I’m joined by Jackie Potts from the International Grooms Association for an honest conversation about life behind the scenes in top-level equestrian sport. Jackie is a highly experienced international groom, having spent 33 years as a member of William Fox-Pitt’s team, and more recently Japanese rider, Kazuma Tomoto.Jackie brings a huge amount of lived knowledge about the realities of grooming at the highest level. We talk about safeguarding within the sport, the standards of accommodation grooms are given when travelling to events, and the ongoing conversation around room sharing and welfare for grooms working internationally. Jackie also explains the work the International Grooms Association (IGA) is doing to improve conditions across the industry — including having IGA representatives present at events, so grooms have someone they can speak to or confide in if they need support. We also discuss the mental health challenges that can come with such an isolating and demanding job, the importance of fair working environments, and why grooming should be recognised and supported as a professional career in its own right. It’s a thoughtful and insightful conversation about the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the sport running. You can learn more about the International Grooms Association here: International Grooms Association [https://internationalgrooms.org/]