Listen With EquiTeam

Welcome to the official podcast from Equiteam. We are here to bring you no holes barred interviews, fun chats and all things equestrian. From tips with the professionals to discussing everyday real life issues faced by many of us, this is a must listen for those who love horses and want to have some fun along the way.

If You Have a Dream, Follow It 03/04/2025

If You Have a Dream, Follow It On this week’s podcast EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels welcomes Paralympic Bronze Medallist Mari Durward-Akhurst to the show. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Mari used riding as a form of physiotherapy and it wasn’t long before her love of horses was cemented. Mari shares her journey with the Riding for the Disabled Association and para-dressage, which led her to be selected for the Paris Paralympics. Full of ups and downs, Mari recalls the highs and lows and how she felt when she won a Bronze medal at Paris. With Mari’s advice, “Take every opportunity you are given and appreciate that it might take a long time. If you have a dream and the right team around you then anything is possible”, this is an incredibly inspiring podcast full of what you can do, rather than what you can’t. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35509110

My Goal is to Make People Cry… (with joy!) 02/25/2025

My Goal is to Make People Cry… (with joy!) On this week’s podcast EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels has the pleasure of being joined by Tony Hobden from Equidance. After meeting Mrs Equidance (Kelly Jewel), music producer Tony was taken to watch dressage to music for the first time and came away with one clear aim – to make the freestyle music better – and that is just what they did! Founding the business 10 years ago, Tony shares how he approached top riders, offering to produce their music to get the Equidance brand known, and shares how during lockdown he tried to break the barriers to make dressage to music feel accessible for all levels. With an all time high of watching Becky Moody dance to his music production at the Paris Olympics, Tony shares why he loves his job, the sport and of course his biggest inspiration. Follow Equidance here: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35406670

Becky Moody - Olympic Medal Winner and Dressage Superstar 02/18/2025

Becky Moody - Olympic Medal Winner and Dressage Superstar Equiteam’s Liz Daniels chats to Olympic medal winner and dressage superstar, Becky Moody. Becky sprung into the mainstream spotlight ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics in a challenging time, and yet managed to steal everyone’s hearts, with her homebred partner in crime, Jagerbomb. Currently ranked seventh in the FEI World Rankings, Becky takes a trip down memory lane and reflects on where her equestrian journey began. In a brilliantly honest podcast, Becky chats about Bomba’s blog and where the inspiration to write from his viewpoint came from. You can follow Becky here: Sponsors: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35311775

Dealing with Information Overload 02/11/2025

Dealing with Information Overload With access to so much information, EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels and Lou Gillings chat about when too much information can lead to overload, simple tasks not being processed and the danger of too many cooks spoiling the broth. The pair recall instances when they have both felt bamboozled and situations where they have seen riders under stress not being able to process straightforward directions and look at some of the things that can help. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35223280

Let's Talk on Time to Talk Day 02/04/2025

Let's Talk on Time to Talk Day As Time to Talk day approaches EquiTeam's Liz Daniels and Louise Gillings look at that wonderful word ‘fine’ Why do we say we are fine when we are not, and what could we be more aware of? As the pair reflect on why they say ‘fine’ even on the days they are not, they share why it’s good to talk as research shows the tactic of bottling up is common, 72% of 25-34 year-olds reporting they avoid saying how they really feel. Riders Minds: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35128375

The Focused Equestrian Boot Camp 01/28/2025

The Focused Equestrian Boot Camp If you’re lacking a bit of direction, then let us help you find your focus with The Focused Equestrian Boot Camp. Equiteam’s Lou Gillings, joins Liz Daniels to chat about their first boot camp and how it can help you focus your goals and find your mojo. You can pick and choose which parts you want to focus on, with our four main pathways: · Mindset and Goal Setting · Rider position · Horsecare · Daily challenges · Rider focused fitness · Plus Loubird's delicious recipes Join us here: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/35026960

A Conversation with Dressage Anywhere’s Ruth Chappell 01/21/2025

A Conversation with Dressage Anywhere’s Ruth Chappell When Ruth and her friend were unable to leave their yard to attend an unaffiliated dressage, they were of course disappointed, but instead of letting it stop them they rode their dressage tests at home, filmed them and asked someone to judge them. As Dressage Anywhere approaches it's 15 year anniversary, Liz Daniels chats to Co-Founder Ruth Chappell about the formation and progression of the platform that hosts online dressage competitions for competitors around the world. Find out more about Dressage Anywhere here: Purchase Ruth's favourite horse products here: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34920865

What is Equine Touch? 01/14/2025

What is Equine Touch? On this week’s episode Helen Duncan shares her journey from taking early retirement to being inspired enough by seeing the benefits of Equine Touch that she went on to found her own business as an Equine and Human Touch Practitioner. After attending a two-day Equine Touch course for horse owners, Helen was so motivated by what she saw, that she went on to train as a practitioner to enable her to deliver this technique and see first-hand the benefits that it can have. Equine Touch is a non-invasive body working technique involving the connective tissue such as fascia, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Helen shares her journey and why she loves working with horse and rider combinations. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34833680

Every Horse Owner’s Worst Nightmare 01/07/2025

Every Horse Owner’s Worst Nightmare At a time of year when everyone else is feeling motivated by goals, it’s important to add the balance and remember that some people are also dealing with setbacks. We all know that accidents and injuries can and do happen as EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels and Liz Somerville share their recent traumatic experiences of finding a horse on three legs and the subsequent emergency surgery of two-year-old Bert. The podcast highlights how being calm under pressure and some preparation can make a big difference in situations of stress. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34739555

A Year of Equestrian Lessons 12/31/2024

A Year of Equestrian Lessons Equiteam’s Liz Daniels and Lou Gillings reflect on a brilliant and educational year that hasn’t been without it's challenges, and look forward to 2025 with some exciting equestrian dates planned. From finding mojo, to physical setbacks, knowing when to be kind to yourself and goal setting, the duo cover a lot in this episode, with some special Equiteamer’s reminding them why they do what they do. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34629615

Merry EquiTeammas 12/24/2024

Merry EquiTeammas Equiteam’s Liz Daniels and Lou Gillings share some festive cheer with a light-hearted festive episode. From memorable gifts, to Christmas traditions, eating mince pies in October and ‘Driving Home for Chritsmas’, the duo cover all things festive… Baileys anyone? Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, With Love from Liz, Lou and Liz x /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34544055

Tristan Tucker and The TRT Method 12/17/2024

Tristan Tucker and The TRT Method On Listen with Equiteam this week, Liz Daniels chats to Tristan Tucker, the man behind the phenomenon that is the TRT Method. The TRT Method gives riders the tools to teach their horse how to handle stressful situations, reduce tension, solve problems and gain confidence. Tristan gives an insight into his formative years, how and why the TRT Method was developed, and the bumps along the way. Find out more - https://www.facebook.com/trtmethod /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34472050

Equimotional: Healing with Hooves 12/10/2024

Equimotional: Healing with Hooves On this week’s episode, Equiteam’s Liz Daniels chats with Equimotional founders, Charlie Vicary and Flick Carter to chat about the formation of this forward-thinking business. Equimotional is a platform based around horses, for individuals and organisations to further their knowledge of emotional intelligence, and mindset, as well as rider performance coaching. Charlie and Flick are a duo oozing with passion, pride and dreams. Find out more about Equimotional: Follow them on Facebook: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34352995

What really is possible? - With Cat Williams 12/03/2024

What really is possible? - With Cat Williams Setting yourself up to succeed is something that certainly seems to have worked for this week’s very special guest, Catriona Williams. Catriona joins EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels from the airport, the day after completing the 1100km marathon bike challenge, in aid of and the . Not only did New Zealand rider Cat complete the challenge, but even more inspirationally she completed it on hand bike after a fall in 2002 left her a tetraplegic. Although Catriona is paralysed from the base of her neck down and has limited use of her arms and hand, she is clearly driven to make a difference to all those around her. Donate here: Find out more about Catriona here: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34248745

'I thought I'd had my share of life challenges' 11/26/2024

'I thought I'd had my share of life challenges' We are a little bit late to the party as Breast Cancer Awareness Month is held every October, to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection and prevention, but it is such an important topic that we wanted to cover it. Equiteam’s Liz Daniels welcomes Claire McDougall to chat about her honest journey of breast cancer and why she has shared her story through her book, ‘Embracing the Scars’ to raise money for Maggie’s Glasgow. For more info on Maggies Glasgow - Follow Claire on Instagram - You can buy Claire's book here - /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/34135886

The Power of an Apology 11/19/2024

The Power of an Apology Within our Equiteam Connected community there is often chat that involves people on livery yards, which can be highly emotive environments where everyone seems to have an opinion. On a good livery yard with a positive support team, you will find no better place – but unfortunately this isn’t always the case and we hear lots of instances of conflicts. Equiteam’s Liz Daniels is joined by Facilitator Coach Consultant and Director of DA Professional, Dorothy Armstrong to talk about the power of an apology, how to apologise, when to apologise, dispersing yard tension, and how to move forwards following a conflict. Contact Dorothy - Website - /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33970502

Refilling the emotional bucket 11/11/2024

Refilling the emotional bucket EquiTeam's Liz Daniels and Louise Gillings chat about your emotional bucket, knowing when it is empty and ways to fill it back up again. After an emotionally crazy equestrian week which involved saying a final goodbye to Liz's heart horse, Cianti, a week of dressage camps, lots of highs and learning opportunities with Joules that were tinged with guilt, the sale of a horse, and juggling work and normal life, it was fair to say that the emotional bucket was a little empty! The pair chat about recognising what you need, and taking steps to fill that bucket, alongside the brilliant support of your equestrian network. Find more about Equiteam - If you need support contact Riders Minds - /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33885717

Looking Forward to Winter.... 10/29/2024

Looking Forward to Winter.... As the clocks have changed and the daylight hours are decreasing, EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels and Louise Gillings share their thoughts on combining horses with their love(!) of winter. From setting goals, and managing expectations, to being realistic with your time, appropriate clothing and top tips, the duo chat about the practical aspects of being an equestrian through the winter months. As always we would love to hear your tips and thoughts, if you’d like to share them pop over to the page and have your say. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33664792

The Emu/Ostrich Effect of Overwhelm 10/22/2024

The Emu/Ostrich Effect of Overwhelm Equiteam’s Liz Daniels and Liz Somerville explore their thoughts on overwhelm as the pair reflect on how they have been feeling after an exceptionally hectic year. From the feelings of failing at everything and not being able to do anything well, Liz S also shares how, as a patient of the Newson Health Clinic, the recent Panorama documentary on over-prescribing of HRT left her feeling rattled and confused, adding to already sinking feeling in her stomach. After chatting off air ahead of the podcast, the duo also delve into the importance of communication with the correct friends and look at some management tools and strategies to help prevent the same cycle that we are all too familiar with. Link to our Menopause Episode with Caroline Wilson - /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33543887

Alan Davies - Life after being a professional groom 10/15/2024

Alan Davies - Life after being a professional groom EquiTeam’s Liz Daniels chats to Alan Davies about life after he announced his retirement from being a full time groom in January 2023. Although not fully retired - we spoke to Alan after he had just returned from flying a horse to America!, Alan has taken a step back from the intensity of being a full time competition groom for Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin, to concentrate on his own showing ponies, coaching, and other exciting projects including working with LeMieux. Alan shares why he is so passionate about sharing his knowledge and how he recently left Liz lost for words! /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33361382

Tea and Talk on World Mental Health Day 10/06/2024

Tea and Talk on World Mental Health Day Equiteam’s Liz Daniels chats to Riders Minds Founder Victoria Wright ahead of World Mental Health Day on 10th October, about why she wants to bring the equestrian community together for a cup of tea and a talk. With a strong message of talking to each other, rather than about one another, Victoria shares why she would like this to become common place and not just for World Mental Health Day. As the pair delve into the narrative around suicide, Victoria shares why we need to change our language and drop the word ‘committed’. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in the podcast, or would like to talk to the Riders Minds helpline go to: . All of the Riders Minds services are free, 100% confidential and accessible 24 hours a day. If you would like to talk to one of our trained team please call the helpline on 0800 088 2073, or text 07480 488 103, or access the web chat through the website. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33363217

What I learnt as 'Camp Host' with Gillian Birrell 09/24/2024

What I learnt as 'Camp Host' with Gillian Birrell When Equiteam member Gillian Birrell was asked to host an Equiteam Dressage Camp, she had no idea what she was letting herself in for. Gillian shares what it’s like behind the scenes compared to her experiences as a camper as she highlights the importance of a supportive network full of positive energy and the ripple effect it has without realising on all those there. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33176747

Why are Equestrians so hard on themselves? 09/17/2024

Why are Equestrians so hard on themselves? Liz Daniels chats to psychotherapist and teaching fellow, Hannah MacIntosh about our brains and why we find it so hard to be nice about ourselves. Have you ever finished a dressage test, lesson, or showing jumping round and the first thing that comes out of your mouth is a negative comment – don’t worry you’re certainly not alone! Hannah explains why we do this and looks at the impact on our mindset and enjoyment levels as she shares some brilliant and practical tips for helping to refocus your thoughts. Useful links: Hannah MacIntosh website - Email Hannah at - Counselling directory - Kristen Neff website - /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/33051642

Things like this don’t happen to people like me 09/10/2024

Things like this don’t happen to people like me When Caeleigh Kean posted on her social media about a recent success, the start of the post caught our eye. Equiteam’s Liz Daniels chats to Caeleigh Kean about winning a sash, being crowned champions, and why she feels that good things don’t happen to people like her. Like many people, Caeleigh wasn’t in a position to buy a ready-made horse, so instead she invested in a nice youngster to produce herself. Six years later and after a lot of blood, sweat, tears, logistical struggles, and battles with her health, Caeleigh is now loving every moment she spends with the horse of her dreams. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32970387

A Conversation with Dan Bizzarro 09/02/2024

A Conversation with Dan Bizzarro Liz Daniels chats to International Italian Event Rider Daniel Bizzarro about his journey from Italy to England, and his desire to share his knowledge by making it widely accessible. Growing up on the outskirts of Turin, Italy, Dan began his riding journey aged nine. A few years later he was given his first taste of Eventing as a Young Rider and his desire to follow his passion was lit. In 2011, Dan left his home with his cat, horse and dog, and found himself working for a season with William Fox Pitt where he learned an incredible amount about riding, horse care and yard management. Dan is passionate about sharing his information to help riders of all levels and regularly shares information on his social platforms and through an app that he has recently developed. If you want to find out more about Dan you can find him on the following channels: Facebook: Instagram: Website: App: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32864317

Formation Riding for All 08/20/2024

Formation Riding for All On this week’s episode, Equiteam’s Liz Daniels chats to Senga Riches, Director of All-Steps Formation Riding. Formation riding is something that the Equiteam founder knew very little about, so when Senga likened it to synchronised swimming, with horses instead of water, we were instantly intrigued. From being inspired by the Spanish Riding School, to helping with basic schooling, and assisting in confidence growth, Senga’s passion to make formation riding accessible to all is very clear. With a strong ethos on inclusivity, All-Steps Formation Riding host clinics, competitions and demos all over the UK and are looking for people of all levels to have a go. Find out more about this fascinating discipline: Facebook: Instagram: /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32650332

When is it Ok to Cheat on Your Coach? 08/13/2024

When is it Ok to Cheat on Your Coach? EquiTeam’s coach, Liz Daniels, chats to Louise Gillings about the relationship between a coach and rider. From being able to be honest and ask questions, to knowing when to move on, Liz and Lou draw on their own experiences from both sides of the coaching fence. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32547862

Listening to Your Body 08/06/2024

Listening to Your Body On this week’s podcast EquiTeam Liz Daniels and Louise Gillings chat about the importance of listening to your body and recognising when to take a half halt, and when to push through when the going gets tough. As Louise faces the prospect of having to admit physical defeat and the feelings of frustration that come with that, the duo draws on personal experiences as they share some of the highs and lows as ‘middle age’ starts to rear its unfortunate head! /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32454347

Revisited - Clench it or Drench it with Kate Leishman 07/30/2024

Revisited - Clench it or Drench it with Kate Leishman In this week’s episode, Liz Daniels chats to Advanced Practice Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Kate Leishman about all things pelvic floor. With 1 in 2 women experiencing bladder problems, often going many years before seeking advice, Kate explains what a pelvic health physiotherapist is and why problems are more common than many people realise. Bladder weakness often leaves people feeling embarrassed, but Kate reassures us that people do not need to suffer in silence as there is lots that can be done. Kate even shares some easy to follow exercises that can help improve your pelvic floor muscles with a message to ‘clench it or drench it’. Find out more about EquiTeam /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32353367

Revisited - A Conversation with Alan Davies 07/23/2024

Revisited - A Conversation with Alan Davies With the Paris Olympics kicking off this week, we thought there was no better time to revisit an episode we recorded in 2023 with Super Groom to the Stars Alan Davies. Alan Davies, the most famous groom in the world, needs no introduction - but if you have been hiding under a stone for a few years then let us introduce you to him. Alan is most famous for working alongside Charlotte Dujardin and Carl Hester, and really catapulted into the main stream media spotlight with the rise of Valegro - aka Blueberry. The ultimate professional, Alan has helped Team GB win so many medals that even he has lost count. In today's episode we put our EquiTeam member's questions to Alan as he shares his journey into becoming a professional groom, managing competition horses, his most memorable moments, some of the challenges along the way, and what it's like flying with horses internationally. Alan gives a taster into life as a professional and as a British Grooms Association Ambassador, Alan touches on how being a competition groom has changed as well as sharing some of his exciting plans for the future. /episode/index/show/431827f6-f415-46d9-9baa-401c98732210/id/32240187

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