Do you ever say, “I’m nervous about riding” without really knowing what you’re nervous about?

After watching the highlights from Burghley and Blenheim Horse Trials, I found myself thinking about something really interesting: even the very best riders talk openly about feeling nervous. But their nerves aren't necessarily the same as the nerves experienced by someone who has lost their riding confidence.

In this episode, we explore why understanding exactly what is making you nervous is such an important first step towards rebuilding confidence.

We talk about:

• Why even elite riders experience nerves
• The difference between different types of riding anxiety and fear
• Why simply saying “I’m nervous” doesn't tell us enough
• How your thoughts can reveal what your brain is actually worried about
• Why journaling can be such a useful tool for nervous riders
• The difference between investigating a negative thought and dwelling on it
• How one fear can lead to a much deeper fear underneath it
• Why understanding your personal triggers matters when working on confidence
• A simple exercise to help you uncover exactly what you're afraid might happen

I'll also give you a practical exercise to try this week using one simple question:

“And then what?”

Because before you can start changing a fear, you need to understand what that fear actually is.

If you've lost your confidence after a fall, difficult experience or change in your horse, this episode is a great place to start.

Remember: confidence isn't about never feeling nervous. It's about understanding your nerves and learning how to work with them.

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Download my Pre-Ride Routine & Confidence Tracker to help you feel calmer and more prepared before you ride.

Find out more about Rider Confidence Coaching and Equine Reiki with Align & Advance at alignandadvance.com

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In this episode of The Rise and Ride Show, I’m joined by Danielle from Eventing Sir Freddles to hear the incredible story of how her event horse became an accidental Facebook purchase!

Danielle shares the injuries Sir Freddles has suffered throughout his journey, including his diagnosis of acute Kissing Spine. Faced with the decision of whether to put him through surgery, Danielle chose a different route and developed her own rehabilitation plan.

What followed was a challenging, emotional and incredibly rewarding journey. Her hard work not only helped Sir Freddles enormously but also impressed his vets.

We chat about his recovery, the dedication required to rehabilitate a horse, and the determination it takes to find a way forward when things don’t go according to plan.

If you love eventing, enjoy real-life horse stories or are interested in Kissing Spine, equine injuries and rehabilitation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Follow Danielle and Sir Freddles on Instagram: @EventingSirFreddles

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#Eventing #KissingSpine #HorseRehabilitation #EquestrianPodcast #SirFreddles

Have you ever been told you're "too sensitive"?

Maybe you've been called emotional, an overthinker, or someone who takes things to heart. If so, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Rise & Ride, we're exploring the trait of high sensitivity and why it may actually be one of your greatest strengths as a horse rider.

Many sensitive riders assume that their emotions are holding them back, but what if your ability to notice the smallest changes, build deep partnerships with your horse, and care so deeply about doing the right thing is actually your superpower?

We'll also look at the challenges that can come with being highly sensitive—such as overthinking, fear of judgement, and feeling overwhelmed in busy environments—and, most importantly, how to work with your nervous system instead of against it.

Whether you identify as a Highly Sensitive Person or simply recognise that you feel things deeply, you'll come away with practical strategies to help you feel calmer, more confident, and more in tune with both yourself and your horse.

• What it means to be a highly sensitive person (HSP)

• Why sensitivity is a personality trait, not a weakness

• The strengths that sensitive riders bring to their horses

• How overstimulation can affect confidence and performance

• Why sensitive riders often overthink lessons and competitions

• Practical ways to protect your energy and regulate your nervous system

• How to stop seeing sensitivity as something to "fix" and start embracing it as a strength

Remember, confidence isn't about changing who you are. It's about understanding yourself, working with your natural strengths, and creating an environment where both you and your horse can thrive.

If you enjoyed this episode, I'd love it if you could follow Rise & Ride, leave a review, and share it with a fellow rider who might need this reminder today.

If you're ready to take the next step in rebuilding your riding confidence, I'd love to support you through my coaching programmes. You can also connect with me on social media for more confidence tips, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes content.

Thank you for listening to Rise & Ride. Until next time, remember that your sensitivity isn't something to hide—it may just be the quality that helps you become the rider your horse needs most.

In this episode, we discuss: