Equestrian Performance Mindset

Jocelin Lillienau
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Equestrian Performance Mindset

The Equestrian Performance Mindset podcast is teaching equestrians how to get the most out of themselves by training their mind alongside their riding skills. It provides actionable tips on how to: Improve performance, Reframe failure, Build courage & confidence and how to Achieve success, happiness & fulfillment in and out of the saddle. Tune in today to start making strides towards your dreams! Inspired by my own two favorite podcasts The Mindset Mentor and EquiRatings Eventing podcast! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau/

  1. 6D AGO

    Feeling Sick Before Competing? Here's Why - #194

    Do you ever feel physically ill before a competition, like you might actually throw up? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode, I and Lorna tackle one of the toughest emotional challenges riders face: pre-competition anxiety so intense it makes you sick. But here’s the thing; it doesn’t have to be that way. Together, we unpack what’s really happening in your mind and body when nerves take over, and most importantly, how you can take back control. You’ll learn: Why the sick feeling is more than just nerves, and what it's really telling you. How to identify the thought patterns behind your anxiety The simple mindset shift that can help you stop spiraling before you even start How to fact-check your fears with reality (and math!) Why our brains love stories, and how to write a better ending for yours This episode is both eye-opening and empowering, offering a fresh perspective that every ambitious equestrian needs to hear, especially if you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning your ability to keep pushing for your goals. You’ll walk away with: A deeper understanding of the mental loop behind show nerves Practical steps to challenge unhelpful thoughts A more resilient mindset that will serve you both in the saddle and in life 🎧 Whether you're headed to your next event or just trying to make sense of your own inner pressure, this episode is for you. Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    18 min

  2. JUL 7

    You Can Do Anything But Not Everything - #193

    In this heartfelt and insightful episode, I share a personal journey of focus, intention, and what it really means to make progress. With my wedding and the competitive season for my eventing horse Echo in full swing, I made a bold decision: to intentionally let go of doing it all, and instead focus on doing fewer things really well. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why trying to “do it all” might be the real reason you’re stuck How to apply the 80/20 rule to your riding and your life The mindset shift from guilt to trust in your decisions How to prioritize your riding goals without burning out Practical steps to reframe success and avoid the hustle trap I also share candid thoughts about putting my showjumper Queenie on the back burner and what it’s taught me about growth, guilt, and grace. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to juggle horses, work, and life, this episode is your reminder that less can truly be more. .Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    12 min

  3. JUN 29

    Make The Most out of Life & Riding - #192

    In this deeply personal and reflective episode, I and Lorna share an intimate look at a truly special life event "Jocelin’s wedding", and the powerful mindset lessons it uncovered. After an unexpected break from the podcast, we discuss what it really means to be present, how disconnection from distractions can unlock richer experiences, and why creating moments that set your heart on fire is more important than ever, both in life and in riding. From the quiet beauty of a Swedish haven to the joyful chaos of Midsummer celebrations, this episode explores: The surprising parallels between riding mindset and real-life presence. Why your phone might be blocking your best experiences. The importance of training your attention, but also following your curiosity. Why daring to "do the crazy things" could be your biggest growth move. How to stop waiting for “one day” and start creating a meaningful life now. If you’ve ever felt caught in the rat race, disconnected during big moments, or unsure whether it’s okay to pause and fully enjoy the life you’re building, this episode is your reminder to stop, feel, and dare more boldly. Tune in for a beautiful blend of inspiration, vulnerability, and practical mindset insights that go beyond the saddle. Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    16 min

  4. JUN 16

    How to Keep Going After a Bad Competition - #191

    Welcome back to another powerful episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast with I and  Lorna. In this raw and relatable conversation, We dive deep into what happens when competition doesn’t go as planned, and how to mentally regroup when your best efforts still fall short. Lorna shares her recent and emotionally intense experience at a dressage competition where things spiraled out of control, despite months of hard work and preparation. We unpack the rollercoaster of emotions, from frustration and self-doubt to shame and anger, that follow a disappointing performance. You’ll learn: Why mental toughness isn’t about “having it all together” but rather your ability to navigate discomfort. How to process disappointment without judgment and move forward with compassion. The power of reframing failure and reconnecting with your “why.” Why sitting with your emotions is not weakness, it’s part of growth. How community, connection, and vulnerability can help you feel less alone in the journey. Whether you’ve had a tough weekend or are questioning your path, this episode is for every rider who's ever walked out of the arena thinking, “What’s the point?” You'll leave feeling seen, supported, and equipped with tools to take one small step forward, even on the hardest days.   Resources mentioned: 🧠 5 Mental Tools: https://www.mindeq.eu/mentaltools Follow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review! It helps so much and helps us spread the message to more riders like you.

    25 min

  5. JUN 8

    From Self-Doubt to 3* Eventing - #190

    This is not just another episode, this is a milestone moment. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of one of the most significant events in my riding career: my debut at 3* eventing with my 7-year-old horse, Echo vd Vrombautshoeve Z. What started as a distant dream becomes a breathtaking reality, and in this special documentary-style episode, you'll experience the week with me, from nervous packing to the elation of crossing the final finish line. You'll hear: Why I chose Maarsbergen for my first 3*, despite it being known as a huge and demanding track How I handled mindset wobbles, doubts, and the pressure of stepping up a level What it was like riding the bold and sassy Echo through dressage, show jumping, and cross-country The unexpected lessons I learned from two poles down in the SJ, and why it was exactly what I needed The emotional highs of going clear cross-country, and the deep appreciation for the community around me. We don’t have the perfect starting point, the perfect style, or the perfect horse. But we get the job done, and that’s what makes it so special. Whether you're dreaming of your first 3*, battling self-doubt, or needing a reminder that progress is possible no matter where you're starting from. this episode will hit you in the heart.💚 Real. Raw. Inspiring. Want to see the round? Check out my Instagram for behind-the-scenes footage and mindset insights. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    25 min

  6. JUN 1

    The Real Reason You're Not Moving Up - #189

    In this empowering episode, we dive into one of the most common fears holding ambitious riders back: the fear of not seeing a distance, and what it really means when you're scared to step up a level. Whether you're hovering at 1.10m and terrified of even thinking about 1.15m, or constantly waiting to feel "ready" before pushing yourself forward, this conversation is for you. We unpack: Why fear of failure (and not fear of injury) is usually what’s really holding you back The illusion of perfection, and how chasing it keeps you stuck What to do when fear is real (like after a fall), and how to work through it safely The mindset shift from “Ready, Aim, Fire” to “Fire, Aim, Ready” Why confidence is not a precondition to action, it’s a result of taking it 💬 Plus, we share our personal stories, mindset hacks, and a serious call to action: if this episode lights a fire under your saddle, let us know! We want to hear from YOU. If you're tired of feeling like you need to “see every stride” before you move up, if you're stuck in the loop of waiting until you feel confident, or if you're comparing yourself to a mythical perfect round, you need to listen to this episode. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    19 min

  7. MAY 25

    How To Reframe Mistakes & Ride With Confidence - #188

    Ever found yourself halfway around a course and suddenly thinking, “Only five fences to go, just keep the time”, only to realize you’re more busy with the resume that with riding your horse? Yeah... same here. In this raw and real episode, I share exactly what happened at my last event when I got caught chasing the result instead of riding to the best of my ability. Spoiler: It got chaotic. I almost missed a fence, scrambled through a combination, and it could’ve haunted me for weeks. But it didn’t. Why? Because I reframed it. Today, I’m walking you through the mindset tool that saved me, and can do the same for you. Reframing isn’t about sugarcoating. It’s about choosing a story that serves your confidence, your learning, and your future as a rider. Inside this episode: Why focusing on the result sabotages your performance What I learned from almost riding past a jump The three reframes that turned a shaky round into the most valuable ride of the season A mindset technique you can use today to bounce back after a rough round Whether you’re prepping for your next step up, doubting if you’re ready, or just feeling the weight of perfectionism, this episode is your permission to be human, and your toolkit for becoming a better one in the saddle. Resources mentioned: 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau Remember: Reframing your thoughts is not about fluff. It’s about finding your power again.

    17 min

  8. MAY 18

    Show Day Surprises: Who Is This Horse? - #187

    Does your calm, rideable partner suddenly transform into an adrenaline-fueled beast the moment you trot up the centerline at a show? You're not alone! In this episode, Jocelin and Lorna unpack one of the most frustrating experiences riders face: when your horse becomes an entirely different animal at competitions; hotter, stronger, and seemingly tuned out from how they go at home. In this episode you’ll learn: How your own expectations could be quietly creating tension in the saddle. Why “riding the horse you have” (not the one from training) is more than a cliché, it's a survival strategy. What happens when you hold your breath… and how it might be unraveling your round. A powerful "hula hoop" mindset to stay focused on what you can actually control. How to redefine success at shows to fuel learning instead of feeding self-criticism. Ways to use visualization and embodiment that go beyond imagining a perfect test, into truly feeling how you'll ride it. Practical competition prep tips to streamline logistics and reduce stress. Resources mentioned: 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks To get the arena dressage rug with a 40% discount, Use this code (MINDEQ40) and the link to get it is: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1897347307/ Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

    24 min
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5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The Equestrian Performance Mindset podcast is teaching equestrians how to get the most out of themselves by training their mind alongside their riding skills. It provides actionable tips on how to: Improve performance, Reframe failure, Build courage & confidence and how to Achieve success, happiness & fulfillment in and out of the saddle. Tune in today to start making strides towards your dreams! Inspired by my own two favorite podcasts The Mindset Mentor and EquiRatings Eventing podcast! Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau/

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