Our Equestrian Life

Dan Bizzarro

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SPORTS

Welcome to your portal to the world of all things equestrian. I’m your host Dan Bizzarro and in each episode, we embark on a journey alongside industry experts, accomplished riders, and passionate enthusiasts. We get to know them and we learn from their experiences and vast knowledge, gaining a deeper understanding of the equestrian way of life.

03/11/2025

Understanding Thoroughbreds with Lucy Jackson

Join host Dan Bizarro in this insightful episode of 'The Equestrian Life Podcast' as he converses with accomplished event rider Lucy Jackson. Lucy shares her transition from physiotherapy to a successful equestrian career and her current involvement with the Howden Ways Thoroughbred Aftercare Program. They delve into the unique characteristics of thoroughbreds, the importance of structured training, and addressing common misconceptions. Lucy also talks about addressing behavioural issues and ensuring proper physical care for these exceptional horses. Don't miss the valuable insights on helping these remarkable athletes transition into new careers post-racing and learn why thoroughbreds could be the perfect match for you! RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE The Howden Way website: https://thehowdenway.com/ Lucy Jackson's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucy.jackson.5492 TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Thoroughbreds 00:30 Welcome to the Podcast 00:54 Meet Lucy Jackson 02:53 Lucy's Journey from Physiotherapy to Equestrian 04:58 Life in New Zealand 06:53 Return to England and Professional Riding 09:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Eventing 14:38 Retirement and New Beginnings 22:13 Involvement with Thoroughbred Aftercare 35:22 The Benefits of Early Training for Racehorses 36:53 Challenges and Solutions in Training Thoroughbreds 37:16 The Role of Satellite Yards and Trainers 37:31 Fitness, Finance, and Management in Horse Training 38:45 The Importance of Consistent Education for Horses 40:54 Incorporating Event Riders in Training Programs 43:14 The Value of Thoroughbred Aftercare Programs 44:09 Addressing Common Issues in Retraining Ex-Racehorses 46:32 The Importance of Routine and Structure 53:06 The Role of Veterinary and Physiotherapy Support 01:01:41 Understanding Kissing Spine in Thoroughbreds 01:05:51 The Howden Way: Resources and Support for Thoroughbred Owners 01:10:04 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 12m
06/28/2024

Ros Morgan: her eventing journey from Pony Club to international success

In this episode, I sit down with Ros to discuss her exciting journey in the world of eventing, from her humble beginnings in the Swansea Pony Club to competing at prestigious events like Badminton and Burley. Rose shares fascinating stories about her horses, Horton Venture and Horton Point, their remarkable achievements, and the dedicated training that led to their success. She also delves into her transition from rider to coach, offering insights on training techniques, the importance of understanding your horse, and her views on the future of eventing. This episode is packed with valuable tips, personal anecdotes, and a deep passion for the sport, making it a must-listen for horse enthusiasts and aspiring eventers. TIMESTAMPS 00:12 Ros's Journey into Eventing: From Pony Club to Professional 00:49 The Tale of Horton Venture and Horton Point: Horses That Defined a Career 03:32 Stepping Away from the Sport: Financial Realities and Family Support 08:51 The Transition from Rider to Coach: Learning and Mentoring 15:29 Understanding Horses: The Key to Success in Eventing 18:31 The Importance of Quality Over Quantity in Horse Selection 28:32 Training Challenges and Solutions: Insights from a Coaching Perspective 35:22 The Art of Adjusting Strides and the Importance of Quality Canter 38:21 Eventing Insights: Strategy Over Speed in Cross Country 38:58 Training Philosophies: The Debate on Canter Work for Novice Horses 39:46 The Legacy of Interval Training: Preparing for Badminton 44:06 Eventing's Evolution: The Impact of Surfaces and Spectator Experience 58:23 Innovative Ideas for Engaging Fans and Enhancing Eventing 01:04:14 Concluding Thoughts on the Future of Eventing Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 6m
05/14/2024

Clare MacLeod: The Truth About Feeding Horses

This comprehensive discussion with my guest Claire, an independent equine nutritionist, navigates through the intricacies of horse nutrition. We explore various aspects of feeding horses, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Key topics include the importance of appropriate forage, the role of supplements, the need for a balanced diet, managing underweight and overweight horses, and tips for choosing the right feed. We also discuss the impact of grazing management, forage types, and the significance of professional insight into equine feeding strategies to ensure optimal health and performance. We covered all the important aspects of correct equine nutrition and I hope you’ll find this conversation helpful. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Clare's website: https://www.equinenutritionist.com/ Clare Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ClareMacLeodEquineNutritionist TIMESTAMPS 01:19 Understanding the Importance of Nutrition in Equine Health 03:06 The Fundamentals of Equine Nutrition Explained 07:34 Choosing the Right Feed: Navigating the Maze of Options 13:02 Personalized Nutrition Plans: The Role of an Equine Nutritionist 17:01 Managing Forage and Pasture for Optimal Equine Health 21:44 The Significance of Consistent Forage Quality 29:55 Supplements in Equine Diet: Necessity or Overkill? 31:34 The Balance of Vitamins and Minerals in Horse Feed 32:19 Supplementing with Salt and Electrolytes: A Delicate Balance 34:27 Exploring the World of Horse Supplements 37:41 The Benefits and Uses of Mash in Horse Diets 42:22 Understanding and Managing Horse Weight 49:10 Feeding Strategies for Underweight Horses 53:13 Choosing the Right Oil for Your Horse 56:58 Final Thoughts and Resources for Horse Nutrition Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 4m
03/24/2024

Charlie Unwin: Unlocking Success in Equestrian Sports

In this enlightening conversation with Charlie Unwin, a renowned performance psychologist with a diverse background including military service, we unpack the psychological aspects crucial for mastering equestrian sports. We explore the importance of personal leadership, the subtle differences between emotions like excitement and fear, and how understanding these can drastically improve training and performance in competitions. The conversation touches on the balance between technical and psychological coaching, the role of personal beliefs, and strategies for maintaining consistency under pressure. Unwin shares insights from his experiences across sports, business, and the military, highlighting psychological techniques such as visualization and managing internal systems to enhance performance. Additionally, the importance of focusing on controllable elements and developing a competition mindset during training is emphasized, providing valuable strategies for both athletes and coaches. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Cerntre 10: https://www.centre10.com/ Charlie's website: https://www.performancelegacy.com/ Dynamic Performance: https://www.dynamicperformancehub.com/ To buy Charlie's book ''Inside Out'' click HERE TIMESTAMPS 01:05 Meet Charlie Unwin: A Journey from Military to Equestrian Psychology 03:20 The Role of Sports Psychology in Equestrianism 05:20 Consistency: The Key to Equestrian Success 08:00 Overcoming Mental Challenges in Equestrian Sports 08:36 Harnessing the Power of Visualization and Flow States 14:27 The Psychological Impact of Horse and Rider Relationship 20:31 Personal Leadership and Focus in Equestrian Sports 31:11 The Importance of Control and Focus in Equestrian Performance 38:14 Transferring Training Success to Competition 40:32 The Psychology of Performance: Navigating Fear and Focus 42:45 Creating a Competition Mindset in Training 44:14 The Power of Precision: Training Beyond the Basics 45:29 Elevating Training with Intensity and Focus 01:06:33 Building Confidence Through Controlled Challenges Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 22m
03/04/2024

Ros Canter: a "normal" yet extraordinary Event Rider

In this interview, I enjoy learning the story of how the amazing Ros Canter went from a young pony club enthusiast to becoming a World Champion. Ros discusses her love for training horses, her determination and competitiveness, and the importance of the support she received from her family, her team and her mentors. You might think that successful riders don’t struggle with their nerves and you might be shocked to hear that Ros had lots of moments of doubt and at times she even felt relief when competitions got canceled. How did she achieve all the amazing results then? You’ll find out! There is so much to learn, and I hope you are enjoying learning with me. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Ros Canter's Offical Website: https://www.roscantereventing.com/ Ros Canter's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/roscantereventer TIMESTAMPS 02:05 Interview Begins: Early Life and Introduction to Riding 03:52 The Path to Eventing and University Life 05:12 The Unexpected Turn to Professional Riding 06:09 Balancing Passion for Travel and Riding 11:03 The Influence of Family and Mentors 17:41 Overcoming Fear and Improving Cross Country Riding 29:56 Importance of Taking Breaks and Celebrating Success 31:17 Self-Description and Competitive Edge 32:05 Understanding Personal Strengths and Training Quality 34:58 Managing Nerves and Embracing Challenges 39:52 Adapting Training Approach to Individual Horses 49:59 Future Aspirations and Advice to Younger Self 56:07 Contact Information and Final Thoughts Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

59 min
02/18/2024

Annabelle Galt: the positive impacts of physiotherapy on horses' performance and welfare

Annabelle Galt is a Veterinary Physiotherapist and an active member of the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists. Bell absolutely loves working with horses and helping them perform at their best. The love for her profession is so inspiring, so much so that seeing her enthusiasm every morning David, her husband, decided to leave his old job, go back to university and become a physiotherapist himself. In our conversation, we talk about the fundamental role of physiotherapy in horse welfare and sports performance. Annabelle reveals how she got into the field, her passion for horses, her focus on academic research, and the functions of various physiotherapy equipment. She also emphasizes the importance of a good coach, the correct saddle fitting, regular vet and physio check-ups, building a strong support team, and continuous learning. I hope you enjoy our conversation! RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Annabelle Galt Veterinary Physiotherapy: https://www.agvp.co.uk/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AGVetPhysio Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/agveterinaryphysiotherapy/ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Equestrian Life 00:56 Guest Introduction: Annabelle Galt 01:59 Annabel's Journey into Veterinary Physiotherapy 04:08 Starting and Growing a Veterinary Physiotherapy Business 08:35 The Role of Physiotherapy in Equestrian Sports 13:10 Choosing the Right Physiotherapist 24:54 Advancements in Veterinary Physiotherapy 32:04 The State of Equestrian Sport and Horse Welfare 39:33 Personal Goals and Aspirations 43:33 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

46 min
02/05/2024

Giovanni Ugolotti: being an Event Rider is all about hard work and a positive attitude!

In this inspiring discussion, I welcome my friend and accomplished Italian international event rider, Giovanni Ugolotti. We dive deep into Giovanni's past, sharing his journey of moving from Italy to the UK, how he trained to become a successful event rider, and his experiences throughout his equestrian career. Gio also discusses the importance of setting goals, how to select a horse, and how to produce an events horse, as well as giving us a sneak peek into what's in store for him this year! Do you want to hear about his hopes for the Olympics, and how he manages to stay upbeat even in the hardest times? Expect laughter, insights, and genuinely uplifting moments in a conversation that embodies the true spirit of the equestrian way of life. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Cranford stud eventing website: http://www.cranfordstudeventing.com/ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 00:29 The Importance of Positivity and Motivation 02:04 Giovanni's Early Riding Experiences 05:21 The Challenges and Triumphs of Building a Career in Eventing 09:15 The Journey of Training and Producing Horses 11:24 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Mistakes 11:42 The Importance of a Positive Attitude and a Strong Team 24:13 Choosing and Training Young Horses 37:50 Looking Forward: Goals for the Upcoming Year 41:03 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

43 min
01/27/2024

Helen West: A deep dive into British Eventing. The good, the bad and the ugly.

In our conversation, Helen discusses her journey from a non-horsey background to becoming the CEO of British Eventing, sharing the challenges and lessons learned along the way. She talks in-depth about the complexities of British Eventing, her time in the role, the difficulties she faced, and the changes she managed to implement. She also shares her aspirations for the future. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE British Eventing website: https://www.britisheventing.com/ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Entering the Equestrian World: A Personal Journey 13:16 The State of British Eventing Upon Arrival 17:33 The Impact of Covid-19 on British Eventing 27:39 The Role of IT in British Eventing's Challenges 37:08 Strategies for Change and Improvement 40:40 The Domino Effect of Change 41:31 Regrets and Contributions in Sports 43:06 The Struggle of Making Tough Decisions 43:53 Understanding Leadership and Decision Making 45:11 The Importance of Effective Communication 49:25 The Struggles of Managing a National Governing Body 56:46 The Challenges of Abandonment Insurance Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 17m
01/24/2024

Cheryl Johns: Understanding the Livery Yard Business with the founder of LiveryList and Yard Owner Hub.

In this episode I'm joined by Cheryl Johns, the founder of LiveryList and Yard Owner Hub. We discuss the complexities of running a livery yard, covering areas such as financial planning, managing staff, and adhering to regulations. Cheryl talks about how LiveryList started as a simple livery yard directory and expanded into a comprehensive resource hub for yard owners. She shares her hopes for the future, including new endeavors for supporting yard owners and the continued growth of her platforms. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Livery list website: https://www.liverylist.co.uk/ The Yard Owner Hub website: https://www.yardownerhub.co.uk/ Facebook Group for Livery Owners: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lyodiscussions/ TIMESTAMPS 01:24 The Birth of Livery List 05:20 Challenges in Running a Livery Yard 06:09 Personal Journey into the Equestrian World 14:23 The State of the Livery Industry 18:43 Financial Planning for Livery Yards 28:58 Staffing Challenges in Livery Yards 33:04 The Importance of a Happy Work Environment 36:38 The Complexities of Employment in the Equestrian Industry 38:45 The Importance of Good Management in the Equestrian Industry 39:33 The Wealth of Resources Available on Yard Owner Hub 41:23 The Future of Regulations and Standards in the Livery Industry 46:45 The Potential Impact of New Regulations on Livery Yards 49:11 The Importance of Compliance with Regulations 01:00:40 The Future of Livery List and the Yard Owner Hub Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 10m
01/16/2024

Spike Milligan: The challenges and rewards of veterinary medicine, a deep dive into equine health and achieving work-life balance

Expert Vet, Spike Milligan, takes us on a journey exploring the adventurous yet demanding field of equine veterinary medicine. He uncovers the intricate workings of vet-client relationships and helps us gain a deeper understanding of risk management in the profession. Spike's valuable insights into horse management techniques, insurance, and rehabilitation, combined with his experiences with British Eventing, provide viewers with a comprehensive perspective on the future of equine performance. Additionally, the podcast offers an introspective look at the search for a work-life balance in the veterinary profession, highlighting the importance of defining personal success and the art of finding 'enough'. Spike's lessons from his own journey and his passion for youth programs add an inspiring context to the future of the veterinary industry. RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE Spike Milligan's website: https://www.spikethevet.co.uk/ Spike Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/spikethevet TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 01:53 Spike's Journey and Role in Veterinary Medicine 07:44 The Evolution of Eventing and Veterinary Practices 30:16 The Role of Insurance in Veterinary Care 32:13 The State of British Eventing 40:36 Moving Forward from Past Mistakes 40:56 The Importance of Communication in the Industry 41:05 Understanding and Supporting the Sport 42:07 Understanding Joint Injections and Treatments 42:42 The Concept of Prehabilitation 43:24 The Role of a Support Team in Horse Care 43:58 The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment 45:09 The Benefits of Joint Injections 46:58 The Importance of Open and Honest Communication 47:05 The Role of the Rider in Horse Care 50:29 The Misconception of Rest as the Best Treatment 53:54 The Role of Supplements in Horse Care 58:01 Understanding Doping and Withdrawal Periods 01:02:03 Future Trends in Veterinary Medicine 01:05:51 Personal Goals and Aspirations 01:10:53 Advice for Young Vets 01:13:44 Contact Information 01:14:31 Conclusion Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 15m
12/08/2023

Caroline Moore: mentor, coach, perfectionist, systematic, always positive and very passionate about horses

Renowned equestrian coach, Caroline Moore, offers a wealth of insights into her coaching philosophy and the profound significance of accuracy, safety, and a systematic approach to horse training. In our conversation, Caroline discusses her method, her inspirations, and how she skillfully employs technology to enhance her coaching. Finding the Winning Formula A unique aspect of Caroline's coaching model is how she breaks down performance into manageable bits through performance profiling. This method was first introduced to her by Sir Clive Woodward, and she has adopted it, incorporating all elements - large and small - of rider and horse performance that can contribute to creating a winning formula. Her training focuses not on becoming a pro rider but on efficiently improving horse performance at any level. By working on rider balance, accurate riding, and finding the level of education that suits both, rider and horse, Caroline believes that one can achieve remarkable results. Tapping into the Power of Technology Recognizing the power of technology, Caroline embraces the use of video analysis and slow-motion captures during her coaching sessions. She facilitates constructive comparison studies between different riding rounds, demonstrating how time and strides can be significantly saved when the riders are kept balanced, and their ride is kept accurate. Maintaining Horse Welfare In her discussions, Caroline repeatedly underscores the importance of the horse as an integral partner in the sport of eventing. She emphasizes that horse welfare should never be forgotten and that the joy of working with horses and their training should not subside. She is passionately vocal about ensuring safety and horse wellbeing and believes that drawing owners’ attention to these fine points can bring a significant shift in how the expenses of running a yard are perceived. Coaching for the Future Caroline is forging a path forward by initiating her own groundbreaking programs to equip riders with the knowledge needed to excel in their field. By teaching them how to balance riding and yard management successfully, she hopes to make a long-lasting impact in the world of equestrian coaching. Beyond her substantial contributions to teaching riders, Caroline Moore has much to say about running a successful yard, maintaining horse welfare, and utilizing technological tools to enhance her coaching. Sharing her wealth of knowledge helps inspire her students and other coaches by offering a practical, systematic, and compassionate approach to the art of horse riding. In the end, Caroline Moore’s underlying message is clear: dedicating oneself to understanding the horse and working passionately can overcome the toughest challenges. Her dedication to her craft inspires many in the equestrian community to strive, not just for winning, but for a kind, systematic and balanced approach to their equine partners. Resources for this episode: Caroline Facebbok page: https://www.facebook.com/carolinemooreeventcoach TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:59 Caroline's Early Life and Introduction to Horses 02:36 Caroline's Journey into Professional Riding 03:30 Transition from Riding to Coaching 05:19 The Importance of Understanding Horses 09:52 Caroline's Coaching Philosophy and Approach 14:16 The Role of Structure and System in Training 16:01 The Importance of Experience and Learning from Others 20:30 Caroline's Book and Its Impact 25:30 Suc Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danbizzarro/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanBizzarro Website - https://www.dbeventing.co.uk

1h 3m

11 Episodes

5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Welcome to your portal to the world of all things equestrian. I’m your host Dan Bizzarro and in each episode, we embark on a journey alongside industry experts, accomplished riders, and passionate enthusiasts. We get to know them and we learn from their experiences and vast knowledge, gaining a deeper understanding of the equestrian way of life.

Creator

Dan Bizzarro
Years Active

2023 - 2025
Episodes

11
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 Our Equestrian Life
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Updated 12/24/2025
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