Equine'n'Wine

Backing young horses sounds magical in theory… until you’re sitting on a baby horse who suddenly discovers birds, shadows, or the terrifying existence of a mounting block. In this week’s episode of Equine’n’Wine , we dive into the wonderfully unpredictable world of starting and training young horses — blending practical advice from Lorna with plenty of funny, slightly traumatic, and very relatable stories from our own experiences over the years. 💬 We chat about: • Preparing youngsters before anyone even gets in the saddle • Why groundwork and confidence matter more than rushing the process • First rides, first canters… and first moments of panic • Common mistakes riders make with young horses • Why patience is absolutely everything when producing babies And yes… Emma-Jane also shares the unforgettable childhood story of somehow managing to teach a young horse to lie down on command — which, unsurprisingly, seemed like an excellent idea at the time and significantly less excellent afterwards. 📩 Featuring a listener question from Sophie in Wiltshire about staying confident when young horses feel completely different every single day. As always, it’s a mix of learning, laughter, horse chaos, and the reminder that nobody’s young horse journey is ever as polished as it looks online. 💡 Lorna’s Golden Nugget: “Consistency, consistency, consistency!” So pour a glass, settle in, and join us for an episode full of baby horse stories, training insights, and the reality of producing young horses without losing your sanity. 📩 Got a horsey dilemma or funny story? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

Every yard has them… the unofficial mascots, the tiny supervisors, the escape artists, and the animals who somehow become just as much a part of yard life as the horses themselves. In this week’s light-hearted episode of Equine’n’Wine , we’re celebrating the wonderful chaos of yard buddies — from loyal yard dogs and opinionated cats to mischievous goats, donkeys with attitude, and every unexpected character in between. 💬 We chat about: • The classic “head groom” yard dog who oversees everything • Hiding cats as children! • Donkeys with strong personalities (and criminal tendencies) • Goats who genuinely believe they are horses • Why these animals become such an important part of yard life Featuring hilarious listener stories including: • A donkey called Kevin who stole an entire sandwich • A yard dog who wandered into the collecting ring and began managing traffic during a clear round As always, it’s a mix of horse chat, laughs, and the kinds of stories every horse person instantly understands. 💡Lorna’s Golden Nugget: “Castrate your male goats!!” So pour a glass, settle in, and prepare to feel very grateful for the weird and wonderful creatures that make stable life unforgettable. 📩 Got a funny yard story or horsey dilemma? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

Who says you need an arena to school your horse? In this week’s episode of Equine’n’Wine , we’re taking your training out on the trail , sharing simple and effective ways to incorporate lateral work into your everyday hacks — no fancy setup required. With our “laugh as you learn” approach, Lorna brings the expert guidance while Emma-Jane asks the questions we’re all thinking (and shares a few very real-life moments along the way!). 💬 In this episode, we cover: • How to use everyday markers like telephone poles for turn on the forehand exercises • Simple leg yield exercises from one track to another • Practising shoulder-in and haunches-in while staying on a straight line • When (and when not!) to attempt turn on the haunches • Why hacking might actually be one of the best places to improve your horse’s training 📩 Featuring a listener question from Aoife in Galway, how do you know if you’re doing it right ? This episode is all about being resourceful, creative, and intentional with your riding — because better horsemanship doesn’t come from perfect facilities… it comes from how you ride. 💡 Lorna’s Golden Nugget: How to Leg Yield without shoving your horse! So next time you head out for a hack, why not turn it into a schooling session? 📩 Got a question or horsey dilemma? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

Seeing a Stride (or Not!) | Real Talk on Jumping & Rider Confidence If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a jump thinking “is this a stride… or is it not?” — this episode is for you. This week on Equine’n’Wine , we’re diving into the realities of jumping , breaking down some of the most common (and most confusing!) concepts riders hear all the time — from riding a line and finding your position, to chipping in and chasing that elusive “perfect stride.” 💬 We chat about: • What it actually means to ride a line • Finding a secure and effective jumping position • The truth about seeing a stride (and why it takes time) • What happens when you chip in — and why it’s not the end of the world 📩 Featuring a listener question from Megan in Bristol, who’s struggling with confidence and overthinking distances after returning to jumping. As always, we keep it honest — because most riders aren’t seeing perfect strides every time… and guess what? That’s completely normal. Whether you’re just starting out over poles or building back confidence, this episode is a reminder that jumping isn’t about getting it perfect — it’s about finding your rhythm and trusting your horse. 📩 Got a question or riding dilemma? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

Can astrology help you better understand your horse? In this fun and fascinating episode of Equine’n’Wine , we dive into the world of Horsey Horoscopes — exploring the different zodiac signs and the personality traits they might reveal in our equine partners. With Lorna leading the way (resident astrology enthusiast!), we chat through the strengths, quirks, and challenges of each star sign — from bold and fiery Aries horses to sensitive Cancers, stubborn Taureans, quirky Aquarians, and dreamy Pisces types. 💫 We explore: • The 12 zodiac signs and horse personalities • How astrology might offer insight into behaviour and training styles • Why some horses seem born dramatic… and others gloriously unbothered • Using astrology as a fun tool, not a rigid rulebook We also discuss the surprising historical link between astrology and breeding , including Colonel William Hall Walker, founder of Tully Stud (now the Irish National Stud), who famously used astrology in his quest to breed winners. So… is your mare a classic Scorpio? Is your gelding giving major Libra energy? And should we all be checking birth charts before buying our next horse? 🐴✨ Pour a glass and join us for one of our most entertaining chats yet. 📩 Tell us your horse’s birthday and star sign: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

This episode was inspired by a thoughtful email from Stephanie in France, which got us reflecting on the horse books that shaped us — from childhood pony stories to the training manuals that still influence how we ride today. We take a nostalgic trip back to the “pony book era” , chatting about classics like Black Beauty , Pony Club manuals, and those unforgettable illustrated guides that made us fall completely in love with horses (and gave us a few unrealistic expectations along the way!). From there, we move into the books that truly shaped our horsemanship , including BHS manuals, Horse Master’s Notebook , and the work of Mark Rashid — exploring how different philosophies, training systems, and teaching styles can both guide and confuse riders. ✨ Books we mention in this episode include: Pony Era: Black Beauty by Anna Sewell. The Manual of Horsemanship - Pony Club Manual. The Threshold Picture Guides by Tony Weber, illustrated by Carol Vinsor. Educational: BHS Manuals . Official handbook - Complete manual of horse and stable management. Horse Masters Notebook by Mary Rose. Mark Rashid Books - Free on Audible. Horses Never Lie, Considering the Horse, A Good Horse Is Never a Bad Colour etc. Thinking Riding by Molly Sivwright. Celebrity Jumping Exercises by various authors. 101 Showjumping Exercises and The Dressage Exercises from same series by Linda L.Allen. Training the Young Horse by Pippa Funnell. Other Recommendations: The Connemara Journey by Hillary Brandt. Feeding Herbs to Horses by Wendy & Terry Jennings. Essential Oils for Horses by Carol Faith. All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot Plus, a few extra recommendations for anyone looking to expand their horsey bookshelf. Whether you’re rediscovering riding or deep in your horsey journey, this episode is a reminder that there's really nothing quite like a good book. 📩 Got a favourite horse book we should read? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast!

Spring has arrived… and so has the snowstorm of horse hair. In this episode, we’re talking about something many riders don’t admit to, being allergic to the very animals we adore. From sneezing through the big shed to managing hay dust, pollen, and stable mould, Emma-Jane shares what it’s like being allergic to horses since birth… and still choosing this life anyway.... Lorna shares how painful it was to have a little sister that did make that choice!! But it’s not just humans. We also dive into allergies in horses , including sweet itch, dust sensitivity, feed reactions, and contact allergies — what to look for, when to call the vet, and how to manage flare-ups without chasing every trend on the yard. 💌 Featuring a listener question from Hannah in Norfolk about managing a cob with suspected sweet itch — and whether natural remedies actually help. 🌿 Emma-Jane also shares the soothing shampoo and herbal spray recipes she created for Daisy during midge season. As always, we explore the balance between holistic support and proper veterinary care — because “natural” doesn’t automatically mean safe. If you’re sneezing through the shed season or battling itchy tails and raw manes, this one’s for you. 📩 Got a horsey dilemma? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 Subscribe, rate & share if you’re loving the pod!

You asked — we answered! This week, we’re diving into our inbox to tackle the brilliant, baffling, and occasionally bonkers questions from you , our lovely listeners. In this bumper Q&A episode, we dive into your emails with topics as real and relatable as ever. From dodgy saddle-fitting advice to ghost-hunting geldings and the emotional rollercoaster of loaning your beloved horse — we've got you covered. 💌 ✨ Featuring listener questions from Ireland, the UK, and the USA: 🐴 Can a quick saddle-fitting course really do harm? 🛒 Why does my horse spook at the same wheelbarrow every day? 🤝 What should I ask before loaning my horse? 🏇 What’s the etiquette for your first ever riding clinic? Plus, Lorna channels her inner calm and Emma-Jane… well, she tries! Got a question, story or horsey dilemma? Email us at equine.n.wine@gmail.com — we’d love to feature you in a future episode! #EquinenWine #HorsePodcast #ListenerQA #SpookyPonies #SaddleFitFails #LoaningYourHorse #ClinicPrep #RealRiders #HorseHumour #SistersWhoRide As always, it’s a wild ride of advice, giggles, and a few golden nuggets from Lorna to take home to your own tack room. 👯‍♀️ Hosted by Irish author Emma-Jane Leeson & South African coach Lorna from @stridesforsuccess 📩 Got a question? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe and leave a review if you’re loving the chaos!

In this episode, Lorna and Emma-Jane dive into the ever-evolving world of modern horse care — from embracing natural wellness to questioning traditional methods. They reflect on what's working, what's just trending, and what needs a healthy dose of common sense! From Natural Fly Repellent to pulling manes *yikes!* and everthing in between. Share your own natural care tips, cautionary tales, or questions by emailing equine.n.wine@gmail.com and don't forget to subscribe and rate the show!

Let’s be honest — some things never leave us. Like the sound of an instructor bellowing “HEELS DOWN!” across the arena when we were just trying to stay on. 😅 In this nostalgic-meets-hilarious episode, we’re reliving all the classic riding lesson commands that haunted our childhoods — from spaghetti rein syndrome to questionable posture metaphors. 🐴 Plus, Emma-Jane (fresh off an ‘Intro to Western Riding Day’ at Bullhorn Ranch, Co. Kildare) can’t stop dropping Western references… much to Lorna’s absolute horror/delight. 💬 Listener memory (ok, fine — a tweaked version of something E-J heard this week): A friend once said, “My instructor used to shout ‘Keep the fiver under your arse in canter!’ — I didn’t know what she meant, but I clenched for dear life!” Also featuring: • Lorna’s breakdown of which old-school instructions actually work • Why modern riders deserve more explanation and less yelling • And a tonne of old school Golden Nuggets that might change the way you teach (or ride) 🫶 Join us for the chaos, the canter clenching, and the clarity. 📩 Got a memory or question? Email us: equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🎧 New episodes every week — subscribe, share, and leave a review if you’re loving the show!

This one’s not easy — but it’s one of the most important conversations we’ve had. In this episode, we talk openly and honestly about grief, loss, and the heartbreak of saying goodbye to a beloved horse. Whether it’s a faithful old companion or a young horse taken too soon, the grief is real — and often misunderstood. 💬 We cover: • How to know when “the right time” really is • The difference between losing a young vs. older horse • Letting the herd say goodbye • Rituals that help with grieving • What to do with the “what ifs” that haunt you after Plus, a heartfelt listener email from Rachel in West Sussex, and Lorna’s gentle Golden Nugget to carry with you. If you’re facing this right now — or carrying an old loss — we hope this episode brings comfort, solidarity, and space to grieve. 📩 Want to share your own story? We’re always listening: equine.n.wine@gmail.com

In this first episode of 2026, Lorna and Emma-Jane ease back into the saddle (and the podcast mic) with a chat about goals, intentions, and the occasional total lack of a plan . From SMART goals to slightly chaotic “vibes-based systems,” we’re tackling horsey hopes for the year ahead — and what happens when things don’t go to plan (again). 🎯 Emma-Jane vows to “fall off less” 📋 Lorna brings the wisdom (and a spreadsheet) 📩 Listener email from Tina in Galway: “Are vibes a valid strategy?” Plus, Lorna’s Golden Nugget this week: “Practicing 'light-seat' up hills!” Cheers to a year of rhythm over speed, connection before correction, and showing up even when your boots are muddy. Email Equine.n.Wine@gmail.com Follow along on Instagram @Equine_n_Wine

In this Q&A special, we’re diving into your brilliant questions — from canter aids that don’t quite make sense (Stephanie, we hear you!) to surviving moody mares and dodging fashion-based yard dramas. Lorna shares her golden nugget on the elusive “ice cream scoop” cue for canter transitions 🍦 and we also chat about riding fitness, following trends in tack, and staying sane through seasonal chaos. 📝 Listener topics this week: • What really works when asking for canter? • Is my mare just hormonal… or just done with me? • How to balance gym and riding fitness. • Are we being sold sparkly tack over horse comfort? • And… are there any decent vineyards in Eastern Cape South Africa? Thanks for your emails and keep them coming! 📩 equine.n.wine@gmail.com 🍷🐴 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share if you love the show — it helps other horsey humans find us! Follow us on Instagram @Equine_n_Wine to see our weekly going-on's in Ireland and South Africa.

"We thought we were wise… then our horses reminded us otherwise!"This week, we’re slowing things right down and reflecting on what we've learned about ourselves, our horses and what our horses have thought us. Turning the mic over to the horses (sort of).It’s a heartwarming, thoughtful episode with plenty of laughs, personal stories, and the kind of horsey truths that hit deep. ✨ Featuring: • Lessons we’ve learned about ourselves this year • What our horses have (gently or not-so-gently) reminded us • Listener email from Dani in Bristol about slowing down and not slipping back Pour something nice, grab a cosy blanket, and settle in for a little end-of-year horse wisdom — Equine’n’Wine style 🐴🍷 📩 Want to feature in a future episode? Email us at equine.n.wine@gmail.com with your horsey stories, questions or confessions! #EquineNWine #HorseWisdom #EquestrianPodcast #ConnectionNotCorrection #MindfulRiding #HorseLifeLessons #IrishEquestrian

In this warm and reflective episode, Emma-Jane and Lorna dive into five powerful lessons horses live by — the ones we humans tend to forget in the rush, pressure, and chaos of everyday life. Inspired by real moments with their own horses, they explore how much calmer, clearer, and more connected we’d all be if we actually lived like our horses do. You’ll hear: 1️⃣ Presence over pressure — why horses never live in “what ifs,” and how riders can learn the same. 2️⃣ Rhythm before speed — the quiet foundation that transforms confidence and balance. 3️⃣ Energy tells the truth — horses read us long before they react to us. 4️⃣ Connection first, correction second — how relationship sets the tone for every ride. 5️⃣ Rest is part of the work — consistency matters more than intensity. 💌 From Laura – Edinburgh, Scotland “Is it possible to enjoy winter riding? Or is it just survival until March?” Featuring: • The mud that has unionised • Crying waterproofs • A mare who becomes a kite • EJ & Lorna’s tips for finding small moments of joy when everything is freezing, flapping, or foggy “Winter riding I can handle… winter people ? Not so much.” Why yard politics get worse in winter — and how to protect your peace without moving to a far paddock and becoming a hermit. We talk: • Boundaries • Your “quiet bubble” • Micro-communities • When to stay… and when it’s time to go And yes — whiskey may have been mentioned. 🥃 Because winter riding deserves medals… or at least a warm drink. 🎙️ Listen now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 📩 Send your stories and chaos to equine.n.wine@gmail.com #EquineNWine #HorsePodcast #WinterRiding #EquestrianLife 💌 From Kate – Surrey, UK And of course, Lorna closes with her weekly Golden Nugget , tying everything back to real-life riding and horsemanship. Pour a glass, settle in, and join us for an episode full of heart, horse-sense, and the kind of wisdom you only learn in the stable. 💌 Got your own “lesson from your horse”? Email us anytime at equine.n.wine@gmail.com — we love hearing them!

Winter riding… we love it, we hate it, and sometimes we simply endure it. In this cosy-but-chaotic episode, Emma-Jane and Lorna dive into the true reality of riding through the colder months — from mud that could swallow a pony to windy-day lunacy, frozen motivation, and the surprising opportunities winter actually gives us as riders. Expect: ❄️ Honest winter struggles (and the bits nobody warns you about) 💪 The hidden perks and training opportunities the season brings 😂 A clothing shopping list to keep you and your horse cosy, including waterproof, fleece lined full chaps, 'bum warmers' and thermal everything in between! This week’s listener question comes from Sophie in Leeds, UK , who writes: “Help… My Yard Has Politics. I love my yard, I love my horse… I do NOT love the drama. People comment on my riding, my horse, my routine — and I’m exhausted. How do you protect your peace without becoming a hermit in the far paddock?” We explore: • Setting boundaries in busy or opinionated yards • How to create your own “quiet bubble” • Finding a supportive micro-community • When to stay… and when it’s time to leave Plus — Lorna’s Golden Nugget of the week for winter riders who need a mindset shift to learn about 'ARSE HEADLIGHTS'!! Grab a glass, grab a blanket, and join us for the chilly chaos 🥂🐴 Have a winter win, a dramatic yard story, or a survival tip? Email us at equine.n.wine@gmail.com — we love hearing from you! Follow us on Instagram @Equine_n_Wine and please share this with a horsey person you think will enjoy it.

This week’s episode is a little different. Emma-Jane pops on for a short solo update to share why Equine’n’Wine has been quiet — after the heartbreaking loss of her beloved mare, Daisy. In this gentle mini-episode, she opens up about the grief of losing a horse, the space needed to heal, and the enormous love that makes these bonds so special. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kindness and patience. We’ll be back next week with a full episode — and a glass raised in Daisy’s honour.

Who really rules the yard — mares or geldings? In this week’s episode of Equine’n’Wine , sisters Lorna and Emma-Jane dive headfirst into one of the oldest (and most entertaining) debates in the horse world. From diva mares to dopey geldings, they share personal stories, listener confessions, and a few truths only real horse people understand. You’ll hear: ✨ The honest pros and cons of mares vs geldings 🧠 Lorna’s expert insights on training and temperament 💬 A brilliant listener email from Megan in Colorado on balancing confidence between arena and trail 💡 Lorna’s “Golden Nugget” tip of the week for thoughtful riders …plus plenty of laughs, sisterly banter, and a well-earned glass (or two) of wine. Whether you’re #TeamMare or #TeamGelding, this episode will have you nodding, laughing, and toasting to the personalities that make our horses unforgettable. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 📩 Got a funny story or a question for the show? Email equine.n.wine@gmail.com — we might feature you next! Follow us on Instagram @Equine_n_Wine#EquineNWine #HorsePodcast #TeamMare #TeamGelding

Mares or geldings — who’s the real boss in the barn? 😂 Emma-Jane and Lorna from Equine’n’Wine share their funniest (and most brutally honest) thoughts on the great equine divide — from diva drama to dependable dopeyness. Grab your glass and get ready for a laugh — because every rider has an opinion on this one! 🍷🐴 #EquineNWine #HorsePodcast #MaresVsGeldings #IrishHumour

It’s that time of year when the veil between worlds is thin, and even the most sensible riders might start to wonder if there’s something to all those old horsey superstitions... In this special Samhain edition of Equine’n’Wine , Emma-Jane and Lorna swap logic for a little magic — diving into the curious, funny, and downright spooky side of equestrian life. From lucky socks and horseshoes above stable doors to ancient Irish folklore and the fearsome Púca , the mischievous shapeshifting horse spirit of legend, it’s an episode full of superstition, storytelling, and a splash (or two) of wine. Expect laughs, old myths, listener confessions, and maybe even a few traditions you still secretly follow yourself. 🍀 ✨ Highlights: Everyday horsey superstitions — silly or sacred? Samhain traditions and Celtic horse folklore The legend of the Púca horse Myth-busting: does belief create luck? Your funniest riding rituals and lucky charms So pour a glass, light a candle, and join the sisters for a magical mix of history, humour, and horse talk — where the only thing scarier than a spooky stable is forgetting your lucky breeches. 🎃🍷🐴 💌 Share your own horsey superstitions at equine.n.wine@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in a future episode! Follow us on Instagram @Equine_n_Wine