The Just Horse Riders Podcast

Aaron Englander
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  • Sports
  • Updated Monthly

Welcome to The Just Horse Riders Podcast! Hosted by Aaron Englander, we dive into the lives of incredible people shaping the equestrian world. From Pony Club instructors to pro riders, we explore their passions, challenges, and what makes them tick. With a relaxed vibe and a touch of humor, it’s not just about horses—it’s about the amazing community behind them. Perfect for anyone who loves horses and the stories that come with them. Follow us on social media and join the conversation! 🐴🎧 Web: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders/

  1. How to Produce a Show Horse for HOYS with Vicky Smith | What Do People Get Wrong About Showing? Ep.38 | Why Show Riders Hand the Reins Away

    May 7

    How to Produce a Show Horse for HOYS with Vicky Smith | What Do People Get Wrong About Showing? Ep.38 | Why Show Riders Hand the Reins Away

    How does a UK show horse producer get a young horse ready for HOYS, Royal Windsor and Royal International? Vicky Smith explains the real graft. In Episode 37 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, Aaron sits down with Vicky Smith — Cheshire-based professional show horse producer, multiple HOYS winner (Coloured Ridden Non-Native Horse of the Year, Maxi Cob of the Year), Royal Windsor and Royal International champion, and a former PE teacher who took a sabbatical that turned into a full-time career producing show horses. According to Vicky, "showing is a sport where you are being judged — so to be judged for a living is quite hard." She also explains why no other discipline asks a rider to spend all winter training a horse, only to hand the reins to a stranger in the summer. What you'll learn: Why six weeks of January roadwork still beats any modern shortcut for fitnessHow variety (hacking, herd turnout, pole work, farm rides) keeps show horses mentally freshThe honest conversation every producer should have with owners about expectationsWhy bitting is the most over-thought area in showing — and what to fix insteadHow amateurs can get into showing through riding clubs, BSHA, TSR and London InternationalWatch now, or listen on Spotify wherever you get your podcasts. Website: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi #justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #showhorses #HOYS #RoyalWindsor #horseproducer #UKshowing 0:00 Introduction 0:46 Meet Vicky Smith — Cheshire show yard 2:18 From riding school to HOYS at Wembley 5:00 Eventing, hunting and finding showing again 6:51 Teaching PE while running 8 show horses 14:07 The HOYS 2018 weekend that changed everything 17:00 Breaking her pelvis at 16 and going to uni 19:14 Taking on horses — managing expectations 27:34 Winter roadwork and legging-up explained 30:49 Rest, recovery and match fitness 41:23 Building the team — mum, Hayley and the grooms 47:12 Vets, farriers and the wider yard network 50:33 What a normal day looks like at the yard 53:50 Selling on, retiring and saying goodbye 57:34 Bart — the horse of a lifetime 59:28 The pressure of being judged for a living 1:02:09 Pathways for amateurs — clinics and BSHA 1:05:37 When it goes wrong — the runaway in the ring 1:12:21 Keeping show horses mentally fresh 1:19:33 How Vicky switches off 1:21:50 What people get wrong about showing 1:26:17 Quick-fire round 1:31:59 Advice for riders aiming at HOYS

    1h 34m
  2. Mary King MBE DL & Simon Middleton on Equestrian Passion, Experience & Retirement After 46 Seasons | Ep.36

    Apr 24

    Mary King MBE DL & Simon Middleton on Equestrian Passion, Experience & Retirement After 46 Seasons | Ep.36

    Six-time Olympian Mary King MBE and Zebra Products founder Simon Middleton sit down to talk eventing careers, comebacks and 25 years of building one of the UK's leading equestrian brands.This is a rare double-header: a rider who reached world number one after breaking her neck, and the man whose premium equestrian distribution business was nearly over before it began — he broke his back the day before Zebra Products launched in 2000.Mary King is a six-time Olympian (team silver 2004 and 2012, bronze 2008), two-time Badminton winner, Burghley champion and the first rider ever to take both first and second at Kentucky with home-bred horses. She retired in March 2026 after 46 seasons in the sport.Simon Middleton is the founder and Managing Director of Zebra Products, the UK and Ireland's leading distributor of premium equestrian brands including Amerigo, Bucas, Uvex, Sprenger, Equipe and Veredus.According to Mary, her surgeon's advice after fracturing her C5 vertebra was simple: don't ride for eight weeks, and don't fall off for ten. Less than a year later she was back at the top of the sport.In this episode:- How Mary came back from a broken neck to reach world number one- Simon's journey from selling fruit to supermarkets to building Zebra Products- How home-bred event horses are produced from foal to 5-star- The brands, riders and moments that shaped modern British eventing- Mary's reflections on 46 seasons, six Olympics and stepping away from the sportListen now on Spotify or watch the full conversation here.0:00 Introduction1:35 Coming back from a broken neck3:05 Broken back day one of Zebra Products5:35 Starting Zebra in a foot-and-mouth year6:00 Non-horsey backgrounds and early riding7:26 Watching Badminton as a kid9:59 The mindset that gets you to the top12:39 Early career setbacks and pushing through20:44 Influencers vs. authentic brand marketing22:54 What people misunderstand about eventing28:46 Competing at the top as a mum33:00 A normal day in an Olympian's life35:07 Mary, Emily and a family dynasty43:59 Spotting a good product vs. good marketing45:07 Teaching your own daughter to ride50:15 Learning without TikTok or YouTube1:00:33 How tech has changed British Eventing1:02:15 Why Mary retired after 46 seasons1:09:12 What's next for Zebra Products1:10:17 Quick-fire round: 10 rapid questions1:17:04 Mentors, family and final reflectionsEpisode sponsor — Zebra Products: https://www.zebraproducts.co.uk/Website: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #maryking #zebraproducts #eventing #badminton #britisheventing

    1h 20m
  3. What Every Horse Rider Should Be Eating with Nutritionist Kristen Stavridis - Gut Health & Energy - Nutrition for Long Days on the Yard

    Apr 1

    What Every Horse Rider Should Be Eating with Nutritionist Kristen Stavridis - Gut Health & Energy - Nutrition for Long Days on the Yard

    Horse riders are athletes — but most are fuelling their horses better than themselves.In this episode of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, host Aaron Englander sits down with qualified nutritionist and equestrian Kristen Stavridis to talk about the one thing most riders overlook: their own nutrition. Kristen is an 8-year qualified nutritionist, social media educator, and author of The Fiber Fix — a practical guide to gut health for everyday people.According to Kristen, the single biggest nutrition mistake horse riders make is under-fuelling — not eating enough to support the physical and mental demands of riding, mucking out, and long competition days.In this episode we cover:- Why skipping breakfast on show day affects your focus, muscle strength, and safety- How your gut microbiome controls cravings, immunity, and energy levels- The truth about electrolyte supplements — and why most riders don't need them- Nutrition advice for female riders — menstrual health, perimenopause, and bone density- Quick, practical food swaps for busy yard mornings (no meal prep required)Watch now, or listen on Spotify at the link below.📖 Get Kristen's book — The Fibre Fix:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fibre-Fix-More-Supercharge-Health/dp/103508709X🌐 https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/📘 https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders📸 https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical🎙️ https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #equestriannutrition #guthealth #riderhealth #horseridertips #showdaynutrition0:00 Introduction & Quickfire Round29:30 Meet Kristen Stavridis31:17 Kristen's Equestrian Background33:34 Horses & Mental Wellbeing35:40 Kristen's Nutrition Career Journey39:24 Balanced Diets vs. Extreme Trends44:15 Fasting, Protein & What's Changed49:23 Creatine — The Truth for Riders58:09 Kristen's Daily Diet Explained1:03:20 Fibre, Gut Health & Your Microbiome1:10:31 How Sugar Hijacks Your Gut Bacteria1:13:22 Top Fibre Foods for Busy Riders1:14:34 Electrolytes — Are You Wasting Money?1:20:32 Fuelling for Riding & Competition Days1:26:49 Mucking Out Is a Workout — Eat Accordingly1:32:03 Hydration Tips for Yard & Show Days1:35:59 Skipping Meals & Weight Loss on the Yard1:37:51 Nutrition for Menstrual Health & Menopause1:46:22 Supplements — Less Is More2:02:08 Your Gut & Your Brain — The Connection2:02:50 Competition Nerves & Upset Stomachs2:03:58 Matcha vs. Coffee — Which Is Better?2:05:00 One Habit That Transforms Gut Health2:08:20 Kristen's Final Message to Riders

    1h 42m
  4. Benefits of Children Horse Riding – The Chaos, Confidence & Magic | -At Home With Ivy And Ponies - The REAL Life of Pony Kids – Ivy & Laura Share the Truth

    Mar 13

    Benefits of Children Horse Riding – The Chaos, Confidence & Magic | -At Home With Ivy And Ponies - The REAL Life of Pony Kids – Ivy & Laura Share the Truth

    In this episode of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, host Aaron Englander sits down with Ivy and Laura, the faces behind the popular Instagram account “At Home With Ivy & Ponies.” Their page has captured the hearts of many in the equestrian world by sharing the real side of life with ponies—something that often gets lost behind perfectly curated social media posts. Together they discuss the reality of children learning to ride, the ups and downs of pony ownership, and why the messy, chaotic moments can be just as important as the big achievements in a rider’s journey. It’s an honest and refreshing conversation about confidence, resilience, and the magic that horses bring into young riders’ lives. In this episode, Aaron, Ivy, and Laura talk about: Why many equestrian social media accounts show the “perfect ride” and what’s missing from that picture The real challenges children face when learning to ride horses and ponies How young riders deal with falls, setbacks, and rebuilding confidence Why the small moments with horses often matter the most The joy, chaos, and life lessons that come from growing up around ponies Whether you're a horse owner, pony parent, rider, or equestrian enthusiast, this episode offers a relatable and heartwarming look at life behind the saddle.

    1h 32m
  5. Episode 33 – Victoria Privett (Endurance with Darcy) & Katie Smart - The Truth About Dog Attacks on Horses & Riders | Leash & Release Campaign: Protecting Horses, Riders & Dogs

    Feb 17

    Episode 33 – Victoria Privett (Endurance with Darcy) & Katie Smart - The Truth About Dog Attacks on Horses & Riders | Leash & Release Campaign: Protecting Horses, Riders & Dogs

    What happens when a “friendly” off-lead dog causes devastating consequences? In this powerful and emotional episode of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, Aaron Englander sits down with Victoria (Endurance with Darcy) and Katie, founders of the Leash & Release campaign, to discuss dog attacks on horses, rider safety, and why education — not blame — is the real solution. From heartbreaking personal stories to practical safety advice, this episode dives deep into: • The real impact of off-lead dog incidents• Why 96% of reported horse attacks involve off-lead dogs• The legal grey areas in UK legislation• What the Dangerous Dogs Act does (and doesn’t) protect• How riders and dog owners can prevent incidents• Why “Leash in the presence, release when safe” could save lives• Practical hacking safety tips (high-vis, cameras, insurance, QR tags)• The psychology of horses, dogs, and human reactions This isn’t about banning dogs.It’s about shared responsibility, mutual respect, and safer countryside access for everyone. Whether you’re a rider, dog owner, parent, or countryside user — this conversation matters. Watch now to understand the movement that’s gaining national attention. Listen on Spotify if you’re on the go. 🔹 Learn more about Leash & Releasehttps://www.leashandrelease.co.uk/ 🔹 Follow & support Just Horse RidersWebsite – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi #equestrian#horsesafety#dogattacksonhorses#countrysidecode#hackinghorses#horseriding#dogowners#britishhorse#equestrianlife #justhorseriders#equestrianpodcast#justhorseriderspodcast

    1h 29m
  6. Hoof Thrush, Cracks & Shoeing Myths — What Owners Get Wrong And Are Your Horse’s Feet Actually Healthy? Tom Dyson, Farrier Explains

    12/30/2025

    Hoof Thrush, Cracks & Shoeing Myths — What Owners Get Wrong And Are Your Horse’s Feet Actually Healthy? Tom Dyson, Farrier Explains

    Episode 32 – Hoof Health & Shoeing Myths In Episode 32 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast, host Aaron Englander from Just Horse Riders sits down with Tom Dyson (registered farrier) and Grace Mowatt (apprentice farrier) for an honest, in-depth conversation about hoof care, shoeing myths, and what horse owners really need to know. This episode pulls back the curtain on farriery — from everyday hoof management to advanced shoeing decisions — answering the questions horse owners ask all the time but don’t always get clear answers to. 🐎 In this episode, we cover: The three real reasons horses are shod: protection, correction, and grip Why bad-smelling hooves usually mean thrush (and when it becomes serious) Common hoof care mistakes owners make between farrier visits The truth about cracked hooves, weak feet, and genetics vs environment How often horses should see the farrier — and why timing matters Barefoot vs shod: when each approach is appropriate What farriers mean when they say a hoof needs “balance” Do hoof supplements and oils actually work, or is it just marketing? Early laminitis warning signs and when to call the vet immediately Why shoe loss happens — and when it’s a management issue, not a farrier issue The physical reality of farriery and why it’s a skilled, regulated professionThis episode is packed with real-world experience, practical advice, and myth-busting insights for horse owners at every level — whether you’re new to ownership or managing horses daily. 🎧 Listen now to gain a better understanding of your horse’s feet — and how good hoof care supports long-term soundness and welfare. 🔗 LinksWebsite: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOfficalSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi Hashtags:#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #horsecare #farrierlife #hoofcare #horsehealth #horseowners #equestrianlife #horsemanship

    2h 29m
  7. Is Your Saddle Hurting Your Horse? Saddle Fitting & Rider Balance with Claire Whitfield - Saddles Direct - Stop ‘Naughty’ Behaviour & Protect Your Horse’s Back

    11/27/2025

    Is Your Saddle Hurting Your Horse? Saddle Fitting & Rider Balance with Claire Whitfield - Saddles Direct - Stop ‘Naughty’ Behaviour & Protect Your Horse’s Back

    Episode 31 – Saddle Fitting, Classical Riding & Putting Horse Welfare First with Claire Whitfield from Saddles Direct In this episode, host Aaron Englander (Just Horse Riders) sits down with Claire Whitfield (Saddles Direct) – classical riding instructor, IASF saddle fitter and BHS Accredited Professional Coach – to dive deep into what really makes a saddle “fit” for both horse and rider. From classical weight aids and rider balance to tree design, reflocking and why “one saddle fits all” is usually a terrible idea, this conversation is packed with practical, horse-first advice. Claire explains how her classical dressage background and training with Sylvia Loch shaped her philosophy: rider position, balance and subtle weight aids aren’t “nice extras” – they’re the foundation for harmony and soundness. We talk about why thicker saddle pads don’t fix poor saddle fit, how to spot red-flag behaviours (like “naughtiness” that’s really pain), when to reflock, why six-monthly saddle checks matter, and how rider height, weight and anatomy all influence what a “correct” saddle looks like in the real world. We also cover common myths (custom = always better, or that expensive = good fit), how often horses really change shape, what to do if you’ve bought the wrong horse/saddle combination, and why storage, age and damage (broken trees, lumpy flocking, dodgy racks) can quietly ruin even the best saddle. If you’ve ever wondered “Is my saddle hurting my horse?” or “Can I safely use one saddle on multiple horses?”, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen, follow & connect with Just Horse Riders: Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseriders Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi Saddles Direct – https://saddlesdirect.co.uk#justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #saddlefitting #saddlefit #classicaldressage #riderbiomechanics #horsewelfare #horsepodcast #equestrian

    1h 33m
  8. How Female Riders Can Unlock Their True Power | Nika Vorster | Heal Yourself, Heal Your Horse | What Every Female Rider Needs to Hear About Strength, Hormones & Horses

    10/16/2025

    How Female Riders Can Unlock Their True Power | Nika Vorster | Heal Yourself, Heal Your Horse | What Every Female Rider Needs to Hear About Strength, Hormones & Horses

    🎙️ Episode 30 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast — hosted by Aaron Englander from Just Horse Riders — welcomes Nika Vorster, an international equine chiropractor, former GB dressage rider, and ex-flat jockey, on a mission to help a million horses by helping riders heal themselves. In this inspiring episode, Nika shares her journey from pony-club beginnings in South Africa to competing for Great Britain at Prix St Georges level, and how her work in chiropractic and biomechanics is changing the way we understand horse-and-rider wellness. We dive deep into:🐴 How mindset, nutrition, and movement affect your horse’s performance💪 Why riding alone isn’t enough to stay fit — and how to train smarter🌿 The truth about seed oils, cortisol, and rider inflammation🧘‍♀️ The link between female hormones, the menstrual cycle & equestrian performance❤️ Building connection, confidence, and communication with your horse from the ground up✨ How to read subtle pain signs, work holistically with your vet & team, and create calmer, happier horses Whether you’re a competitive rider or love hacking on weekends, this episode will help you see that healing your horse starts with healing yourself. 👇 Listen / Watch Now🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7sUBwfQNIG40hRgs8hXbKi▶️ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@JustHorseRidersOffical 🌐 Find Just Horse Riders Online:Website – https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/justhorseridersInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/justhorseridersTikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@justhorseridersofficial #justhorseriders #equestrianpodcast #justhorseriderspodcast #equestrianlife #horselovers #horsemanship #femaleequestrians #animalchiropractic #dressagerider #riderfitness #equestrianwellness #horsehealth #riderhealth #nikavorster #podcastinterview

    2h 24m
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About

Welcome to The Just Horse Riders Podcast! Hosted by Aaron Englander, we dive into the lives of incredible people shaping the equestrian world. From Pony Club instructors to pro riders, we explore their passions, challenges, and what makes them tick. With a relaxed vibe and a touch of humor, it’s not just about horses—it’s about the amazing community behind them. Perfect for anyone who loves horses and the stories that come with them. Follow us on social media and join the conversation! 🐴🎧 Web: https://www.justhorseriders.co.uk/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/justhorseriders/

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