This Equestrian Life

Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Jemima Green, a former event rider who has transitioned into a Grade Two para dressage competitor. After a life-changing accident, Jemima's resilience and passion for horses led her to redefine her equestrian career. Discover how she overcame challenges, adapted her riding techniques, and found new ways to connect with her horse, Fanta. This episod...

In this episode, we sit down with Sasha Hargreaves , a former professional eventer who recently made the bold decision to step away from the sport. Sasha shares her journey from competing at the highest levels to embracing a new path, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way. Join us as we explore her "Changing My Life Diaries" and gain insights into the realities of life as a top-leve...

What if caring for your horses could also restore the land they live on? In this episode of This Equestrian Life, Jane Myers MSc introduces the Equicentral System , a sustainable approach to horse management that works with nature, not against it while offering your horses a more natural way to live. Discover how mimicking natural grazing patterns can improve your horses’ health, reduce your workl...

Barefoot farrier Tom Broadbridge (founder of Pioneer Hoof Protection ) and returning guest holistic vet Lily Wilson ( Nurturing Nature Equine)  join Rhi and Miri to dive into a discussion on everything from the ethics of barefoot performance horses to communication gaps in hoof care. This episode challenges traditional thinking; whether your horse is shod or barefoot, you'll come away with new ins...

Join hosts Miriam Hackett and Rhiannon Davies as they dive into conversation with business strategist Alice Benham. Discover how Alice transitioned from leaving school early to becoming a very successful business owner, and learn about the unique challenges and opportunities within the equestrian industry. This episode explores the balance between passion and business viability, the importance of...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi are joined by Dr. Daniella Vansteenkiste , a board-certified veterinary neurologist based in the USA. We discuss back pain and kissing spine in horses, as well her point of view on finding the root cause of pain. It’s a fascinating conversation and one we think you’ll love.  Huge thank you to our season sponsor, White Griffin, Specialists in Environmental Sustainabili...

Welcome back to Season 3 of This Equestrian Life! We’ve missed you and we’ve been busy preparing for a jam-packed season. On this first episode, we head to Redwings in Norfolk, where we spent two days learning about the five key areas of their work: rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming, sanctuary and campaigns.   Whilst there, we interviewed Nic de Brauwere, Head of Welfare and Behaviour at Redwings,...

Dip behind the scenes with Miri and Rhi to hear the reality of being equestrian content creators. Opening up about the pressures and perks of sharing their lives online, they discuss the big issues including how much money an equestrian influencer can make, and debunk common misconceptions about influencer culture within the horse world. This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary a...

In this episode, we dive into rider-specific nutrition with expert Ruth Sharif. From gut health to glucose crashes, we explore how what you eat affects your energy, focus and performance in the saddle. Ruth shares practical tips on fuelling your body before riding, managing sugar intake and supporting gut health to feel your best both on the ground and in the arena. Find out more about Ruth and he...

Equine nutritionist Clare MacLeod joins the show to debunk common myths around feed, soya and sugar, emphasising science over scaremongering. She explains the importance of forage-based diets, why balance matters more than brand, and how to navigate misleading marketing. Clare also shares how owners can make informed, simple feeding choices - without needing a science degree or falling for hype. F...

Morven shares her experience of completing Badminton Grassroots on her 20-year-old cob, reflecting on the inspiration and challenges of the sport.  Miri and Rhi also delve into the damaging stereotype of mares being "difficult," calling for greater empathy and understanding of equine behaviour and hormones. Follow Morven on Instagram This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary and E...

Rhi and Miri unpack the many sides of horse loaning, part-loaning and retirement, offering practical advice and personal stories for anyone considering sharing a horse. They explore the emotional, logistical and financial aspects, from contracts and insurance to navigating owner dynamics. This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Equilibrium Products. To learn more about the i...

Navigating equestrian products:  In this episode, Miri and Rhi discuss some of their favourite equestrian products, covering aspects of tack, horse care and rider wear. The items we spoke about are listed below in order of mention - some of these are affiliate links and we may earn from qualifying purchases. Miri’s saddler: https://www.frankbaines.com/   Rhi’s saddler: https://louisamariacuomosadd...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi discuss their weeks (including Harley’s physio and a Duchess update!) and then dive into a discussion on loneliness, finding the right professionals and communities before answering your questions on weighing up private vs. livery yards. This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Equilibrium Products. To learn more about the incredible work that Re...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi are joined by holistic vet Lily Wilson, of Nurturing Nature Equine. They discuss Lily’s approach to horse care, needle shyness and have an in-depth discussion about the surprising impact of haynets + hay placement in stables. Follow Lily: https://www.nurturingnatureequine.co.uk/  The coach Rhiannon mentioned: https://www.facebook.com/EquitationWithEmpathy/  Gareth’s ‘...

In this episode, Rhi and Miri dive into the world of young horses, discussing everything from foals to five-year-olds, the ethics and challenges of early training and their own personal experiences. From shaping behaviour to emotional growth - both equine and human - they explore what it truly means to raise a horse kindly. This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Equilibrium...

Welcome back to season 2! In this episode, we’re kicking things off with a much-requested episode on all things confidence. This podcast is brought to you by Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Equilibrium Products. To learn more about the incredible work that Redwings do, visit https://www.redwings.org.uk/rhi   To learn more about Equilibrium Horse Products, visit https://equilibriumproducts.com/   Foll...

In the season finale, Miri and Rhi talk all things springtime. From changing grass, to worming and hoof care, we get into all the key things to think about at this time of year. This Equestrian Life is brought to you by Miri Hackett (Hackett Equine) and Rhiannon Davies. Join our weekly chats where we discuss everything from training and mental health to our weekly horse-shaped mishaps - all from t...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi discuss all things competition and horses. From nerves and preparation to navigating your purpose and how to show up as a good mentor for your horse and good fellow competitor, we break it all down. Chapters 00:00 Miri’s week: Holistic Therapy  05:26 Rhi’s week: Harley update: did the competition plan work?  09:13 presence vs. nerves competing  13:04 thoughts on top-l...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi are joined by professional rider fitness experts Maeve Sheriden from Activate Your Seat and Steph Brumption from SJB Performance training. We discuss everything from sport-specific training to where to get started and what to focus on.  Chapters 0:00 Intro  0:27 Rhi’s week: big presentations, new bits and ‘thinking into happiness’ 11:38 32 Miri’s week: what would you...

In this episode, Miri and Rhi discuss injuries and rehab in horses.  TRIGGER WARNING (TW):  Though we hope it feels hopeful as we share advice and the future of rehabilitation, in this conversation, Rhi candidly discusses the loss of a horse due to injury and unsuccessful rehabilitation. We understand that this may be difficult for some listeners and we have tried to share very specific chapters b...

This episode is a follow on from Episode 3: Buying & selling horses: viewings, vettings and vital info and we recommend you listen to that first! This week, we discuss what to do once you get your new horse home, from finding your new professionals, setting up a routine, goals and seasonal changes. This Equestrian Life is brought to you by Miri Hackett (Hackett Equine) and Rhiannon Davies. Joi...

In episode 5, Miri and Rhi unpack the complex topic of sustainability within the equestrian industry. We talk macro - track livery, transport, yard management, and micro - buying new clothes, feeding and bedding. We also unpack the emotional piece of finding the balance with our sustainable actions and tackling the need to be ‘perfect’.  Chapters  0:00 happy Galentines! 0:58 the “you meet them twi...

In episode 4, Miri and Rhi are joined by Holly Outtridge - who left her corporate career to set up her own photography business - and Niki Baxter - a professional groom best known for her viral clipping, plaiting and grooming skills. We discuss all things equestrian careers - how to get into it, avoiding pitfalls and finding support in community. Chapters:  0:00 Intro  0:36 Rhi’s week - competing,...

From Miri Hackett (Hackett Equine) and Rhiannon Davies (Riding With Rhi) comes a brand new podcast dedicated to all things equestrian life.  Join our weekly chats where we discuss everything from training and mental health to our weekly horse-shaped mishaps - all from the perspective of a professional rider and hobby rider.  In episode 3, we discuss our experiences of buying and selling horses, in...