Equestrian Mums Club (Equestrian Mums Club)

If you won £200,000 on the lottery tonight... what would you spend it on? How do you know what your financial priorities are (& what "should" they be)?

In this episode, we're talking to the self-titled "pensions princess", Charlotte Watson. UK-based financial planner, horse owner/rider/enthusiast/aficionado and mother-of-one - Charlotte is certainly not your stereotypical "man in a pin-striped" suit!

In this chat, Charlotte is breaking down the difficult financial jargon you've probably heard of... with a sprinkle of glitter, a great big smile and in terms you and your horsey dreams will be delighted to hear about! Who knew finances could be fun?! (No, we're not kidding!)

Listen on to hear more on...

• Who is Charlotte - and how did a horsey girl, the daughter of a jockey, become a financial planner?!
• What can a financial planner do for you?
• Who should be using a financial planner?
• How should you be prioritising your finances, based on my income level?
• What IS child benefit and is it worth claiming?
• When should we be looking to save or invest?
• How can we protect ourselves financially - inc. tips around life cover, sick pay, retirement planning, and inheritance
• Plus, Charlotte's top tips for expectant equestrian parents

Charlotte is giving us a truly unique viewpoint on finances - knowing our struggles as equestrians, parents and people juggling so many responsibilities. Money is so emotive for many of us - so we really hope you find this episode as useful as we did whilst recording!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What did September look like for us? Curious to find out?

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences. Katie updates listeners on some new arrivals(!), her lack of riding lately and some baby-related capers of recent days... AND, Sophie tells us all about how her second pregnancy is feeling - with less than 3 weeks to go until her due date (eek)!

The conversation also touches upon; birth plans and important decisions, the unequivocal pressure we put upon ourselves as mothers to "bounce back" and the fun of keeping toddlers entertained with daily life! Plus, we discuss plans for hosting the podcast as Sophie looks to welcome another family member.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club is changing over the next few months.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more...

Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Well, HELLO THERE, 2025! Nice to meet you.

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast - after a brief hiatus since the end of 2024 - we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences.

We reconnect with listeners after a little break from recording, chat about how a New Year often puts the pressure on for big goals (and how we're not in that zone!) and the importance of avoiding overwhelm as a parent.

Sophie gives us an update on equestrian parenting life with two - as little Ruby is now 3 months old! Plus, she gives us an honest insight into the struggles she's finding with her riding confidence since having babies - especially now she has a young horse to bring on in Trev.

Katie updates listeners on her (unintended) herd of four-leggeds and how her little one, Rafe, is getting on. Plus, she shares a mental health update, too - which may resonate with some of our listeners.

Lastly, we have a good chat about the first EVER Equestrian Mums Club event - coming to West Wilts Equestrian Centre on 21st March 2025! Find out more about what it includes, what our vision is for the day and why we decided to run it.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on exciting plans for the Equestrian Mums Club in the next few months!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more... Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

So... you're a mum? But what else do you define yourself as, and who are you besides that title?

If you're awaiting your first child or have had a baby in the last few months, it's probably been a bit of a whirlwind for you in how you self-identify. Having a child is one of the biggest life changes someone can ever have - so there are bound to be some huge changes in the way you view yourself - whether that be through pregnancy, postpartum or in the early days of parenthood.

In this conversation, we're discussing how we feel our self-identity has changed through the journey so far, including:

• What IS self-identity? (i.e. what labels do you give yourself?)
• How self-identity can change through pregnancy
• How self-identity can be rocked through a change in everyday habits
• How self-identity can change your habits
• How self-identity can evolve as your child ages and you are further along in the parenthood journey

We hope this particular episode gives you food for thought - as it certainly gave us plenty to mull over whilst making it!

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

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Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠

⁠Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

What did March look like for us? Curious to find out?!

Get to know us a little bit more inc. updates on our family, horses and home lives as well as a few exciting updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What would you say your superpower is?

In this episode, we're getting to know Elli Sydenham - supermum, single parent and social media manager(!) for her 13-year-old daughter, Phoebe and their many four-legged friends. Known on Instagram by the handle @hattie_the wildcardpony, this glorious duo are brightening our feeds on the daily - with daughter, Phoebe, letting her creative streak and determined nature run riot and mum, Elli, being the "buffer and safety net" for content, comments and followers. (Pretty hard work when there's 15k+ followers!)

Listen on to hear more about:

• Elli's background and life as a "first generation equestrian" & "first generation equestrian mum"
• The challenges and benefits of co-parenting with an ex
• Advocating for Phoebe's ADHD diagnosis and life after the discovery
• The benefits of horses and social media for someone with a neurodevelopment difference
• Managing an adolescent's social media account as a parent

This was such an open and honest conversation, with huge thanks to Elli for her candour. We hope this conversation gives you plenty to think about, but plenty to be hopeful about, too - especially if you, or someone you know, are struggling with accepting a "difference" of any kind. Because, your difference can be just what the world needs!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Have you ever sat there wondering if this lifestyle is really all worth it? The early mornings, late nights, endless mud... & piles of washing that go with it?! It was tough BEFORE kids... but this? This is another level. Why would you even *think* about adding ponies for children, into the mix?!

If you're in the trenches of equestrian life, right now - we've spoken to someone that is here to give you hope! In this episode we speak to a lady that has been there and done it, and come out of the other side with a smile on her face.

Jane Marsh has raised four children alongside running a busy family home with numerous ponies, horses, dogs, chickens, hound puppies and, on the odd occasion, a few sheep! She's negotiated the school runs with turn out, pony club rallies with three energetic boys and hunt days with the whole family including remembering the packed lunch and haynets! 

Now that all of Jane's children are over 18 and on their own paths, she reflects with us on the highs and lows of raising horse-loving children alongside running a yard, now that she has a little more time to enjoy the sport she loves for herself. Tune in to gain an invaluable insight into an equestrian mum's life well lived, with some fabulous advice for all of us along the way. 

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠⁠ ⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb

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Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

Do you dream of heading out eventing next season? Do you have high hopes and plans for something BIG? What about... dreams of Badminton Grassroots?!

Well... in this episode, we're speaking to one lady that gives us all something to aspire to! We're chatting to Badminton Grassroots 2024 competitor, Chloe Marsh.

Chloe has been well known on the UK side saddle circuit for many years - her adventures with her horse, "The Cow Pony" aka Bertie (or Oaklawn Gypsy to give his proper name) giving so many of us belly laughs and inspiration in equal measure! There's not much that Chloe and Bertie didn't achieve together.

However, in more recent times, Chloe's focus has been on her youngster, Marley and new family member, baby Ottilie. And in 2024, she even got to take Marley around the Badminton Grassroots event... just 4 months postpartum!

In this episode, we're talking about...

• Planning a pregnancy around Badminton Grassroots!
• The controversial topic of horse riding throughout pregnancy
• Labouring, postpartum life and the farming lifestyle... including a different set of priorities for husband, Thomas!
• The ups and downs of breastfeeding
• The challenges (physical, logistical and mental) of juggling riding and children
• Chloe's journey with her beloved, Cow Pony
• Plus much more!

As always with our guests, we're absolutely in awe of what Chloe has achieved on this journey so far with a baby and horses! But also what she has been kind enough to share with us.

If you'd like to follow more of Chloe's journey with baby Ottilie and horse, Marley - you can do so via Instagram @chloe.l.marsh.

Happy horsing!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Most people try to give parenting or horse advice, that comes from a genuine place. And, a lot of the time... we can often ask for it. However, some of the time we don’t ask for it... and get it anyway!

In this episode, we discuss ways in which we can pick out the good from the bad (and politely ignore the unsolicited) - without coming across as ‘my way or the highway’. 

Expect to hear from our own experiences, as we muddle our way through motherhood and horse ownership - as well as some of the experiences shared by our listeners.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Early mornings, late nights, plenty of laughs... and plenty of tears, too! Endless tidying, feeding, bathing and poo (lots and lots of that). Does having horses prepare you for parenthood? We're fairly certain there's at least a little overlap!

In this episode, we're talking about some of the similarities we've found between parenting and keeping horses, so far - and some of them are maybe a little different than you'd expect.

Laugh along with us as we compare notes on what having horses and kids is really like...

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club? We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

We often marvel at mothers who take on careers alongside parenting... but there's jobs, and then there's elite-level sport...

In this episode, we were blessed to have an glimpse into how one superwoman makes it all work - Olympic medallist, international dressage rider, Laura Tomlinson.

Laura has competed at the World Equestrian Games, the European Championships, 2x Olympic Games and a vast number of other high profile shows throughout her career. She was part of the gold medal-winning team at the London 2012 Olympics and also took home an individual bronze medal with her Danish Warmblood, Mistral Højris (Alf). Incredibly, she was also appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours for services to equestrianism.

We sit down and get to know Laura over a cup of tea - as she gives us all a rare glimpse into what life is really like as an elite athlete and as an equestrian mum of four (wow!).

Join us and listen in, as we find out more about:

• Where her love of horses really started
• What it was like to experience selection and participation for the Olympic Games
• How she balances parenthood alongside her husband, professional polo player, Mark Tomlinson
• Who her children are, as well as their interests
• How she keeps the memory of loved ones passed alive for her children
• Daily life with four children and multiple horses!

Plus, much much more.

We hope you enjoy!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What did June look like for us? Curious to find out?

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences. Sophie shares updates about her daughter Olive, her pregnancy (as she reaches 6 months in!), and her horses. Meanwhile, Katie opens up about the very recent loss of her horse, Leo - and how that is affecting all areas of family life.

The conversation also touches upon going back to work after maternity leave and the difficulties of balancing work and childcare. We also share our struggles with keeping a tidy house(!) as well as announcement about podcast episodes in the month of August.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

*Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including discussions around horse euthanasia, grief and loss. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Have you ever considered the differences in how you and your horse process the world? How do you think this works in terms of a harmonious partnership?

In this episode, we're going to find out... as we're talking to supermum, Louise Einchcomb - a lady of many, many talents. Centre Manager for her local Riding for the Disabled Association centre, BHS coach and NLP practitioner.

As well as all her previous achievements and accolades, she owns Rider Mentality - an equestrian coaching business, specialising in both horse behaviour and rider mindset. Through her deep knowledge in Equine Science and hands-on practical experience with horses - as well as her human coaching qualifications - she's hoping to bridge the gap for us, so we can treat our horses in the way they need to cared for... in order for us all to reach a harmonious relationship.

This conversation touches on...

➡️ Louise's family life - including her son, Finley and her horse, Oz

➡️ Her work at the RDA centre and the crucial role horses play in therapy for those with disabilities

➡️ The Paris Paralympics 2024 and the importance of inclusivity in sport

➡️ The increasing difficulty in finding suitable horses for RDA centres

➡️ The power in understanding both horse & human behaviours for positive performance

➡️ The story behind starting her business, Rider Mentality and the online courses she offers to equestrians

This was such a fascinating conversation for us - we're so grateful to Louise for sharing her world and experience with us. We hope you enjoy!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more...

Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

If anybody has a question about the sport of Eventing, Nicole Brown would most definitely be the person to ask! She is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to equestrianism - which is what makes her such a brilliant presenter, commentator, broadcaster and fellow podcaster. 

Away from the camera, Nicole embraces family life with her husband, her little boy, Toby, and her trusty spaniel, Bertie. In this episode, we are catching up with her to see how she balances work life with her family life... and where she currently stands on horse ownership!

Listen to hear more about:

• Nicole's equestrian background

• How she got into commentating as a career

• The difficulty of juggling life as a freelancer with a young family

• How a career in media prepares you for having children

• Plus, a little insight into Nicole's growing family

Get to know Nicole more from behind the mic, as we ask her all the questions you wish you could!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?
We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.
Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

How do you juggle a career in media alongside a growing family? Is it possible to be an equestrian presenter, as well as "mum"?

In this episode, we're speaking to someone you've probably seen and heard before... presenter, producer and director, Jenny Rudall. Well-known in the UK as face, voice and host of many equestrian TV shows and conferences, Jenny is the ultimate media maven.

Joining us from Canada, where she and her family have recently relocated to, Jenny talks to us about;

• Difficult births
• The change in reality after becoming a new mum
• The importance of a routine
• Judgement and support networks
• Relocation and the impact on her family

Plus, we get to hear more about how she's upstaged the one and only Valegro(!), scared Tim Price witless and her 'cloak of invisibility'!

Get to know the Jenny behind the lens in this exclusive episode, like you've never seen her before.

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here:
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- Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

There are some moments in life, where you get to meet people you feel like you've already known a lifetime... but in this episode we got a good reminder that what people post about on social media, isn't always all of who they are!

In this episode, we got to speak to the wonderful, talented and multi-faceted, Olivia Towers - who many know as one of the very first equestrian social media influencers in the UK.

In her own words, Olivia tells us more about;

• How she's feeling about her pregnancy and (now that she's a mummy-to-be!)
• How her ideas and thoughts around social media have evolved
• Her career twists and turns, and the chapters she's been through so far
• What life is really like behind the social media 'lens'
• How training horses can set people up for little humans

Plus much, much more!

Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including mental and behavioural disorders. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

We found after releasing a one-off “bonus” episode of this kind in January, you - our listeners - were super keen! We had lots of engagement and questions afterwards… so we thought… let’s give one in February a go! 

Get to know us a little bit more inc. updates on our family, horses and home lives as well as a few exciting updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

If you’re pregnant, have a baby or young children… you’re effectively superhuman.  Trying to juggle it all, keep every ball rolling all the time - be a good partner, be a good mum, be a good horse mum, be a good dog mum, be a responsible employee or business owner… it’s a lot. That’s without getting all the bills paid, on time… and the life admin attended to. In this episode, we’re going to talk through some common mindset challenges our audience have been having, as well as some practical tactics to help you with your horse care routines. Some of the hot topics and mindset conundrums we'll be discussing are: “I can’t keep my horse fit and have a child.” “I haven’t got the time for my horse anymore.” “I can’t afford my horse anymore.” Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠⁠ ⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠ Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

Have you ever considered relocating to the opposite side of the world?! In this episode, Katie is talking to one lady that has done just that…

Emily Breeze went travelling from the UK to Australia in search of “something better” than the day-to-day grind. From an unsuspected travelling trip… she’s met her life partner, had a beautiful baby boy and found a fulfilling career in the process.

This conversation touches on...

➡️ Emily’s journey and motivation to move from the UK to Australia

➡️ Her coaching experiences working in the Australian equestrian industry so far - including running an equine centre in Canberra, gaining her Aussie coaching qualifications, and taking it freelance

➡️ Emily’s family life and dynamic with 22-month-old, Henry and husband, AJ

➡️ The motivation to move to freelance coaching, alongside the building her social media presence to form her freelance client base

➡️ Navigating maternity leave as a self-employed individual

➡️ The challenges in personal growth once you start a family

This was SUCH a great episode - with so many gems in for those of us working solo. Thank you to Emily for her candid and frank discussions - we’re so grateful.

Want more Emily moments?! You can find her on Instagram ⁠@emilybreeze_equestrian
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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more...

Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What did April look like for us? Curious to find out?

Get to know us a little bit more inc. updates on our family, horses and home lives as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

It's been a while... but the Equestrian Mums Club are back in business! This time with another face in tow...

This episode sees us speaking to pal (and previous podcast guest), Jenny Rudall - from across the pond, in Canada, as she gives us an update and hands out some good advice on stepping up from one child to two.

We're talking about...

• The importance of a good baby carrier - esp. in the newborn phase
• Navigating new experiences for newborns (& horses!)
• The importance of being authentic - as parents, horse stewards, in media and in life
• Great brand partnerships - and how they can be a catalyst for change in the equestrian world
• Balancing being a present parent with your own wants & desires
• How some Christmas traditions... won't be followed in every household!

As always, join us for a fun, informal and friendly conversation - as we navigate ponies and parenthood together. We've not got any of it figured out... but we're going to have fun along the way!

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Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

When was the last time you had an open conversation with a friend about your cycle? What sort of feelings do you get when someone starts to open up about theirs to you?

In this episode, we're speaking to Coni Longden-Bird, co-founder of NIXI Body - an innovative leak-proof underwear brand that the Equestrian Mums Club partnered with in 2024. Together, we're talking about normalising conversations around women's health - and how breaking down stigma and shame can lead to more empowered, healthy women.

Listen along to hear more about:

• Coni's background and fertility journey
• The need to prioritise self-care, especially through conception and then motherhood
• The need for education around menstrual health
• Who NIXI Body are and their mission
• Why NIXI Body's products are ideal confidence boosters for those with bladder leaks or periods

We had such a blast on this episode - and hope that this content can make you laugh along with us, as we explore the topic of women's health with a little light-hearted humour!

Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including fertility challenges and discussions around shame. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Have you ever wondered how the introduction of a child could change your dynamic with your partner? If so, you're certainly not alone! If you're planning or expecting your first child soon, you're probably going to be feeling a little tentative about relationship changes. Well, here to give some insight (and maybe put some minds to rest...?!) is equestrian dad, Alex Swinswood.

Alex (our host Sophie's partner) is here to talk to us about:

• How roles in relationships can change through pregnancy and beyond
• How to juggle a baby alongside horses
• Alex's biggest piece of advice for expecting equestrian parents

Plus, much more...

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠⁠ ⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠

⁠Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

Have you ever wondered about the connection between confidence and becoming a new parent? Has your confidence in the saddle changed for the better or the worse, since having a child?

In this episode, we are speaking to international master mindset and performance psychology coach, author, speaker and trainer, Jenni Winter-Leach. Founder of Flying Changes Mindset, Jenni has a wealth of experience in helping equestrians show up to be the best they can be - by harnessing the power of their own mind!

Listen in to hear more on:

• Jenni's journey from corporate careerist to transitioning to an equestrian mindset expert
• How your nervous system shapes our response to different situations
• The psychological theory behind confidence - and how trauma can affect this
• The importance of understanding the root cause for confidence issues - not just dealing with the symptoms
• What the definition of a trauma actually is!
• How trauma responses can shape our parenting

This was a truly fascinating episode for us - so we hope our listeners enjoy and learn a thing or two along the way!

Our key takeaway was simply this - mindset matters, in parenting, riding and in the way we treat ourselves and others. Invest in it!

*Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including discussions around grief and loss. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Parenthood (& horse ownership!) can be challenging, to say the least. But, what happens when you decide to put some of that online?

In this episode, we're speaking to parent, horse owner and content creator, Rachael Barnett - online moniker, @raythegoth. Best known on Instagram and YouTube for her funny, heartwarming and relatable content with her cob mare, Pepper - she's attracted over 46k followers combined!

Listen to the full chat, for more around:

• Her early years abroad
• How she found her way into social media
• How content creators need to be mindful when choosing to share
• The challenges of online criticism vs. the beauty in building authentic relationships through social media
• The impact of social media on mental health
• Her initial struggles with parenthood and her perspective on having a 'lockdown baby'
• Why new parents shouldn't be afraid to reach out for help

We're so pleased that Ray was able to share so much with us in this episode, and it gives you plenty to think about - parent, guardian or parent-to-be!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

People often tell new parents to take stock of their little one's "firsts" or milestones... You're told to treasure those little moments and hold them dear. But, has anyone ever told you to treasure your "firsts" as parents?

In this episode, we're talking about some of the milestones we've experienced as parents so far - including:

• Our first yard visit
• Our first solo drive in the car
• Our first solo dog walk with a baby
• Our first day with a partner back at work
• Our first horse ‘service’ day with baby in tow e.g. farrier, dentist etc.
• Our first solo grocery shops
• Our first day with alternative childcare
• Sophie's first flight with a baby (solo, too!)

We hope you can laugh along with us, as we relive some of our most traumatic and fun "firsts"!

Plus, we're also getting to hear from mums a bit further along the track from us on:

• Their first pony club rally with a little one
• Their first day of school with their children

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here:

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠⁠ ⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠
  

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

What does sustainability really mean? Can you truly make eco-friendly choices with horses and babies? Have you ever considered the true cost of a sustainable product... from beginning to end?

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking to Zoe Kiff, founder and owner of sustainable equestrian brand, ⁠Honest Riders⁠.

In this conversation, we're getting to know more about...

• Who Zoe and her family are
• Zoe's incredible journey with her home-produced dressage horse, Trevor
• What the Honest Riders brand is and how it was started
• When products are truly sustainable (& the cost of that!)
• The balance between entrepreneurship, horses and family life
• Tips to start your own journey to more sustainable choices
• Plus much, much more!

Enjoy listening along as we learn more about being sustainable and environmentally friendly, with both humans and horses.

Pssst! Loved this episode and want to start your own eco-friendly horse care journey? Use code MUMSCLUB15 to claim 15% off any product in the Honest Horse collection. Hurry - offer expires at the end of September!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Want to try get back on board after a baby? Perhaps you’re looking to train towards a goal with your horse? Stuck with no transportation, or perhaps the time to head to your local competition venue?

Have you thought about giving online dressage a go? 

In this episode, we’re talking to Susie Baughan - owner of online competition platform, E-Riders. We’re getting to know more about the lady behind it all, her family life with horses and just how E-Riders came about. Plus, we get some top tips on do’s and don’ts for submitting a fabulous test.

We look forward to going up against some of you in the Equestrian Mums Club x E-Riders tests! 

Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club? We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.
Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this! 

We love an announcement at EMC HQ...

In this short but sweet bonus episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, Sophie is spilling the beans on a BIG secret...

Listen in, to find out more!

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We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

How do women prioritise after having a baby? Does a child mean the end of your career - professional or riding? As a self-confessed career woman, Mel Newman wasn't expecting a baby to be part of their family dynamic! Having worked in Marketing within the equestrian industry for a decade, and with a string of high-profile brands behind her name, many could be mistaken for thinking of Mel as just "married to the job". However, in this chat, we're getting to finding out what really matters to this supermum! This conversation touches on: - Mel's upbringing between The Netherlands and the UK - Her unexpected pregnancy and the impact it had on her riding - How she makes balances family life with progressing her professional career - The importance of guarding your mental wellbeing - especially with social media - Societal expectations and roles in the home - The importance of listening to your own instincts - Plus, much more! Enjoy listening along, as we have a laugh with (and learn a little more about!) someone we've worked with for many moons!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

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Well, January has come around quickly! Welcome to 2024, Equestrian Mums.

In this short episode, we're having a quick reality check. Where are we with our horses? Our kids? Our lives?! What's going on?

Get to know us behind the 'gram, as we talk about the (sometimes harsh) realities of equestrian mum life.

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here:

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠⁠ ⁠
• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠⁠
  

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

Do you ever meet people in this life that you are immediately drawn to? What is the defining factor for you? For us, often it's a blend of grit, charisma, authenticity and a multifaceted skillset - which this episode's guest certainly has in spades!

Like many of the equestrian parents we've spoken to, Ali Surrey Dane has multiple hats to wear...

• She runs and owns a livery yard - Hurston Dressage and Eventing
• She's a British Dressage Coaching Certificate L3 coach and List 3 British Dressage judge
• She's a rider (although seems to take that title with a pinch of salt!)
• She's a Non-Executive Director for both the British Grooms Association and the Equestrian Employers Association
• Of course, she's also a mummy, too - to one gorgeous little boy, Rafael!

How does she do it all... we'll never really know! But, on a sunny day in mid-March, we got up close and personal with the wonderful lady, herself.

In this episode, listeners can hear a little bit more about...

• What Ali really think the equestrian industry needs more of (Clue: it's not horses!)
• How she managed to buy herself a little Lusitano gelding... and not a big warmblood mare?
• How a rough pregnancy doesn't necessarily mean a slow return to riding!
• Her son and his namesake
• How equestrian employers need to make changes for parents to sustain their own businesses
• Plus, much more... in true Equestrian Mums Club fashion!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

How do you make the transition from a career in the city... to becoming a parent of three? Then (on top of that!) an equestrian entrepreneur in a highly specialised field?!

In this episode, we're speaking to Katie Powell - founder and owner of Nodwood House Equine. We're getting a behind the scenes chat - where Katie tells us more about how she really made the career switch and set up one of the UK's leading equine facilities for rehabilitation.

Listen to hear more about:

• Katie's city life and motivation to 'make the switch'
• Her competitive and coaching careers (as well as being a BD Assessor)
• Life with three children under 18 - inc. two girls now competing in BD!
• Advice on balancing teens with the call of social media
• And... what inspires her and keeps her progressing

We're absolutely in awe of the work Katie has put in to make Nodwood House Equine the success it is today - but also how she raises such a beautiful family in tandem, alongside her own passion projects.

Join us as we chat all things business, horses and parenthood in this very special episode. We hope you enjoy!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What does fatherhood really look like... versus the picture he has in his head pre-kids?! (Spoiler alert: It's a bit different!)

On this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, Sophie's flying solo to have a chat with her co-host - Katie's - husband and long-suffering "horse widow", Simon!

Listen in to this episode to hear more about:

• The infamous "meet cute" for he and Katie... with an unlikely location!
• How he (a self-confessed non-equestrian) really feels about having horses in his back garden
• His take on their late pregnancy news
• How he is navigating fatherhood, in the midst of his own grief
• His thoughts on his Katie's transition to motherhood
• The (unusual!) phrase he keeps in mind, to remember to make the best of every situation

It's rare we get the non-horsey side of the coin on this podcast... so take a seat and get ready to listen along to the real, authentic story of someone "equestrian by association"!

Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including grief and loss of a parent. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What did July look like for us? Curious to find out?

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences. Sophie shares updates about breaking in her horse 3YO, Trev, and the perils of riding whilst 7 months pregnant... Meanwhile, Katie talks about planning for Rafe's first birthday and shopping for a baby horse!

The conversation also touches upon; some parenting fails from the month(!), the Olympics and some incredible performances that have wowed us, as well as some big controversy in the equestrian world.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

*Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including discussions around horse welfare. We advise listener discretion.

How soon after finding out about your pregnancy should you stop riding? Am I safe riding whilst pregnant? How much will my friends and family judge me for riding whilst pregnant?

Possibly one of the most controversial topics a horse-loving mother might face - we're getting to the heart of the 'Should I ride whilst pregnant?' dispute.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• How to know when to get out of the saddle
• Are there any benefits to riding whilst pregnant?
• How pregnancy ailments can change your riding (yes, think 'lightning crotch'!)
• How does pregnancy change your riding confidence?
• Does horse care change once pregnant?
• How friends and family can react to riding whilst pregnant

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠ ⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠

⁠Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

Ever wondered how Paralympians approach parenthood? How about navigating the world of newborns and toddlers?!

In this episode, we were graced with the presence of Paralympic powerhouse, Natasha Baker (OBE - in case you were wondering!). We had the pleasure of sitting down with her over a good brew, where she gave us all the goss - including...

➡️ How she juggles her athletic ambitions and being mum to Joshua

➡️ Insight into the support team behind her medals

➡️ The Team GB dynamics at the Paris Paralympics 2024 (inc. who they really are behind the scenes!)

➡️ The importance of horse and rider partnerships in para sport - and what we can all learn from that

➡️ Mindset as the ultimate secret to her success

➡️ Her new perspective (and goals) for life after Paris

➡️ The importance of representing disabled individuals in our media - in sport and beyond

Plus so, so much more!

This was such a fun chat for us - meeting one of the UK's most beloved Paralympians, and one of our absolute idols. She is exactly the person you think she is, in real life (& it's fair to say... we fangirled *ahem* quite a bit)!

We hope this episode gives you lots of food for thought, and that it encourages plenty of conversation in your households around mindset, representation the partnership you seek with your own horses.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more...

Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

What did May look like for us? Curious to find out?

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences. Sophie shares updates about her daughter Olive, her pregnancy, and her horses, while Katie talks about her new horse (Lottie) and her son Rafe. The conversation (as always!) delves into the challenges and joys of parenting, as well as the humourous and chaotic moments of everyday life as an equestrian. The conversation covers the challenges and parallels between raising children and caring for horses, as well as the unique experiences of being an equestrian mother. It also touches on the complexities of balancing family, work, and equestrian responsibilities.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club has grown over the month (with much more still to come!).

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

So... you're pregnant! Congratulations! Now... what happens next?!

If you're expecting your first child soon, it's fair to say that you never really know the ins and outs of the experience... until you've experienced it! Let us guide you through some of the ways you can prepare for one of the biggest changes of your life.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• How to prepare yourself for a new baby - including physical and mental health
• How to prepare your horse for changes to their schedule
• How to prepare your home (inc. dogs!) for a new arrival
• Our absolute must-have items for those early days postpartum - including for the yard, for home and for the hospital

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠ ⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠

⁠Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to share with a friend and follow for more!

What did October look like for us? Curious to find out?

In this episode of the Equestrian Mums Club podcast, we catch listeners up on our lives, discussing our children, horses, and recent experiences. Sophie introduces us all to baby Ruby, gives a summary of her birth experience for the second time round and tells us how she's adjusting to equestrian parenting life with two children under 2! Plus, Katie tells us more about how her ever-growing herd of horses is faring, as well as an update on son, Rafe.

TLDR? Get to know us a little bit more, as well as some updates on how the Equestrian Mums Club is changing over the next few months.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more...

Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

How soon can you ride after having a baby? What birth complications can hinder how quickly you can get back on your horse? What sort of birth should you opt for as an equestrian?

Childbirth is one of the most life-changing experiences a person can go through. It can be a traumatic thing to go through - irrelevant of whether it's your first or fourth baby, or the type of delivery you have.

In this conversation, we discuss:

• What our birth plans were vs. actual deliveries
• Our birth plans and the anticipated 'back to riding' plan
• Riding throughout pregnancy and the effects on birth
• How birth can be traumatic - for mind and body
• Recovery from birth, with horses

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here

• Instagram: ⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig⁠
• Facebook: ⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb⁠

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please make sure to hit 'Subscribe' and follow for more!

Have you ever ridden an ex-racehorse? Perhaps you've had the privilege of giving a Thoroughbred a change in career after racing? If you've already had dealings with former racehorses... you probably already know how adaptable, intelligent and fabulous these horses really are!

In this episode, we're speaking to Lauren Stanley, Welfare Communications Manager at Great British Racing and a mum of two gorgeous little boys.

This conversation touches on:

• Lauren's family life
• Lauren's role at Great British Racing and the key to balancing work and family life
• How to get involved with National Racehorse Week (7-15 September 2024) and see how racehorses in the UK are looked after
• Common misconceptions about the life of racehorses
• The opportunity for equestrian disciplines to learn from each other
• The opportunity for diverse careers in racing
• Plus, much more!

Enjoy listening along, as we learn more about racing and the crossover with everyday equestrians life.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

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Are you travelling with your littles this summer? Perhaps it's your very first flight abroad as a family? Or... are you heading off for some jolly camping capers?!

In this episode, we're chatting about the essentials we've taken with us to make travelling with kids that little bit easier. And, we're sharing the tips we've been given by others to help make those journeys *slightly* less stressful!

We hope this episode is useful for you. Safe travels!

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We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Hello! Welcome to the Equestrian Mums Club. We're your hosts, Katie Allen-Clarke and Sophie Conway - new mums and avid equestrians. You're about to join us for our very FIRST podcast! In this conversation, we discuss: - What the Equestrian Mums Club is - How the idea for the Equestrian Mums Club came about
- Who this podcast is for - What you can expect from this podcast (inc. topics and tone!)

We hope you enjoy this episode! If you do, please make sure to hit 'Subscribe' and follow for more.

Follow the Equestrian Mums Club here: Instagram: ⁠https://bit.ly/emcspig ⁠Facebook: ⁠https://bit.ly/emcspfb ⁠

Have you ever felt underrepresented in the equine world? Perhaps you've noticed that women are often in less leadership positions in this sector... despite making up over 75% of participants in the sport?!

In this episode, we're talking to someone who is part of an organisation looking to change that. Muireann O'Toole Brennan is Co-Founder and CMO of Equitas - an online publication standing for justice, fairness and equity for females in our industry.

In this very thought-provoking episode, we're talking about:

• An introduction to Muireann, her work and her family
• The Equitas mission and why it is so important
• Flexibility and a skilled female workforce
• Toxic masculinity in some disciplines and the risk it poses to the workforce
• The delight of ex-racehorses, and the joy they can bring!
• The mental health epidemic happening in the equestrian world - and what Equitas are doing about it

This was an absolutely incredible and honest conversation, with someone who - although always looks on the bright side of life(!) - is really championing some of the most serious topics we are faced with as equestrians. We were delighted to speak to Muireann and get her perspective.

*Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including discussions around gender discrimination, sexual harassment, mental health and suicide. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

How can we look after our bodies, once we've had a baby? AND how on earth can we do that, when we've four-leggeds to fend for, too?!

In this episode, we’re speaking to a lady that has more job titles than most! Gemma Dawson is an osteopath, pilates instructor, mummy MOT practitioner and women’s health enthusiast. She runs Clinic 124 - a multidisciplinary clinic dealing with all aspects of health - which she runs alongside her own osteopathic practice and a Pilates Studio (The Pilates Studio Whitstable). She’s also a wife, mother and fellow horse enthusiast - so we absolutely cannot wait to find out more about her life, her work and perhaps get some much needed advice on how to make the best of postpartum life - for our own bodies and our babies.

If you're looking for quick tips on how to feel good in yourself, whilst juggling all the 'hats' - here's the place to start!

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Life has many twists and turns, ups and down - and as equestrians and parents, we can sometimes think that perhaps we experience a few more than the average Joe(lle)! It's not an 'easy' life to begin with - but many of our fellow equestrians are also privately facing trials and tribulations we may know very little about...

In this episode, we got to speak to an "everyday equestrian mum", Cheryl Dollery, about her experiences so far... From living with two hilarious Highland ponies and a growing family, to losing a baby girl with ⁠Patau's Syndrome⁠ and a troublesome newborn stage with her gorgeous little boy, Theo.

In her own words, Cheryl tells us more about;

• Native pony chuckles and capers (inc. Highland pony and Welsh Section D quirks!)
• How her Highland ponies fit into everyday family life
• Her little boy, Theo, and his rocky start to newborn life
• How losing a baby girl with Patau's Syndrome (a genetic chromosome disorder) has affected her life
• How you learn to live with grief as time passes

Plus, much more.

We were so grateful to Cheryl for generously sharing her experiences with us, so hope you can take some strength and inspiration from this episode.

Please note: Some of the topics we discuss in this episode some listeners may find challenging - including baby loss and grief. We advise listener discretion.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram and Facebook - find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there. Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!

Oh... HI there, Equestrian Mums Club listeners! We're sorry for leaving you in the cold, for so long...

In this episode, we're reconnecting with listeners after a long break of podcasting - due to the irony of equestrian parenting! BUT, we're refocussing our efforts on creating content that makes you feel seen and heard, and letting you in on the challenges we've been facing on our own equestrian parenting journeys, too.

Katie tells us more about her challenges of juggling work, moving house and toddlerhood! And, Sophie tells us a little more about how she's stumbling through "the swamp" of newborn life again, whilst also struggling with the grief of losing her heart horse, Oscar and beloved dog, Peggy. More than ever, we need your connection, too!

Plus, we mention the sad post-ponement (geddit?!) of the inaugural EMC Confidence Clinic at West Wilts - in case you'd not gotten the memo.

We're making plans to bring you some joy - so join us again for a wild ride, with a few parenting-related obstacles along the way.

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Want to hear more from the Equestrian Mums Club?

We’re over on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn & more... Find us with the handle @equestrianmumsclub or head to our profile page for the link straight there.

Make sure to hit the follow button for more content like this!