The Mindful Equestrian Podcast

The Power of a Positive Mindset (That Isn’t Fluffy or Fake)

Do you ever catch yourself spiraling into negativity—even when most of your ride, workday, or week actually went pretty well? That’s not just a “you” problem—it’s how our brains are wired. But with some intention and awareness, you can start to change that.

In this episode, I’m digging into the science and practicality of positive mindset—not the  kind where you pretend everything’s fine, but the kind that helps you notice what is working, so you can build on it. I talk about why your brain naturally focuses on the negative (hello, negativity bias), and how you can start retraining it to be more balanced, especially when it comes to your riding or running a business.

You’ll hear:

• Why looking for what’s “right” isn’t toxic positivity—it’s a training tool.

• How positive reinforcement affects your learning and motivation.

• What I’ve seen shift for my clients when they stop fixating on what went wrong.

• Easy, realistic ways to start practicing this—even on tough days.

This mindset work isn’t about ignoring problems. It’s about giving your brain the full picture so it stops sabotaging your progress. If you’ve been stuck in a loop of self-doubt, criticism, or over-analysis, this one’s for you.

Meditation for Real Life: Simple Grounding for Riders and Entrepreneurs

Feeling overwhelmed or ungrounded? In this episode, I share a straightforward, practical approach to meditation that fits into real life—not some idealized version of it. Whether you're an equestrian needing clarity in the saddle or an entrepreneur trying to stay focused, this grounding tool helps you get out of your head and into the present. No incense or fancy setups needed—just you, your breath, and a moment of stillness.

Nervous Energy to Calm Confidence: Mindful Tools for Riders and Entrepreneurs

In this episode of The Mindful Equestrian Podcast, Lisa shares how two simple tools—breathwork and visualization—can help equestrians show up with more calm, confidence, and focus. Whether you're heading into the ring or managing a challenging day in your horse business, these grounded practices work. You'll learn when and how to use each tool, plus a few practical ways to start building them into your routine today.

The Mindful Brain: Why Your Brain Reacts the Way It Does—and How to Work With It

 

In this episode, I take you on a deep dive into how your brain really works when it comes to stress, anxiety, learning, and mindfulness. From the amygdala to the default mode network to interoception and neuroplasticity—we’ll unpack what’s happening behind the scenes and how you can work with your brain instead of against it.

This is the kickoff to my new series focused on practical mindfulness tools to support your riding, your business, and your everyday life. There’s a lot in this episode, so take your time with it—listen in sections or come back to it when you need a reset.

Topics include:
✔️ The fight-or-flight response
✔️ Negative bias and perceived danger
✔️ Why multitasking doesn’t work
✔️ The power of interoception (body awareness)
✔️ How mindfulness rewires the brain for growth

And more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is Stress Holding You Back? Understanding the Mindful Brain

Do stress, anxiety, and self-doubt show up in your riding, your business—or both? You're not alone! In this episode, I explore how our brains are wired to protect us, sometimes at the cost of growth and performance. You'll learn how developing a simple mindful practice can help you recognize and manage these mental blocks.

I share relatable stories from my own experiences and clients, introduces the idea of limiting beliefs, and offer a practical takeaway to help you start shifting your mindset right away.

Plus, I introduce an upcoming series on "The Mindful Brain," filled with powerful tools like breathwork, visualization, and positive self-talk, designed to help you ride, coach, and live with more confidence and clarity.

Whether you're an equestrian professional, rider, or entrepreneur, this episode will give you insights to move past stress and toward your goals.

The Myth of Constant Progress_ Why Plateaus Are Where the Magic Happens

In this episode of The Mindful Equestrian Podcast, I dive into the myth that progress should always be a straight upward line. I share why plateaus — those slower, sometimes frustrating phases — are actually where real growth happens, both in riding and in business. Instead of seeing plateaus as setbacks, we’ll talk about how to recognize them as powerful opportunities for integration, rest, learning, and true transformation. Whether you’re in the middle of a struggle, just coming off a breakthrough, or feeling stuck, this episode will help you reframe how you see your journey.

From Burnout to Balance: Abby Stearns on Thriving in the Equestrian Industry

In this episode of The Mindful Equestrian Podcast, I’m joined by Abby Stearns—a talented equestrian and barn manager with experience ranging from collegiate riding to managing horses at top-level hunter shows across the East Coast. Abby shares her journey from Vermont to the Winter Equestrian Festival and beyond, and gives honest insight into what it’s really like behind the scenes in a demanding industry.

We talk about burnout, setting boundaries, and the importance of finding a healthy balance between work and personal life—something many equestrians struggle with. Abby also opens up about the role coaching has played in helping her define her path, speak up for herself, and build confidence in and out of the ring.

Whether you're just entering the equestrian world or have been in it for years, there’s something in this conversation for you.

Connection and Clarity: Keys to Riding and Business Success

In this episode of The Mindful Equestrian Podcast, I’m diving into the power of connection and clarity—two essential ingredients for success in both riding and business. I talk about what it means to truly feel your horse, how to move from control to communication, and why getting out of your head is the first step to better rides. I also share insights on creating ease and professionalism in your equestrian business through clear communication, contracts, and thoughtful systems that support both you and your clients.

Whether you’re in the saddle or running a barn, these principles can help reduce stress, improve relationships, and create more flow in your day-to-day work.