Equestrian Performance Mindset - podcast cover

Equestrian Performance Mindset

Jocelin Lillienauwww.mindeq.eu
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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Episodes

The Power of Your Words - #195

Welcome back to another episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, where we help ambitious riders make real strides in their mindset, so they can make real strides in the saddle. This week, I and Lorna dive into a deceptively simple yet deeply transformative topic: the power of your words; especially the ones you say to yourself. From self-talk during tough training sessions to the limiting beliefs quietly shaping your confidence, this episode is all about helping you build awareness...

Jul 20, 202528 min

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 th...

Jul 14, 202518 min

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 mind...

Jul 07, 202512 min

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 joy...

Jun 29, 202516 min

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 f...

Jun 16, 202525 min

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 f...

Jun 08, 202525 min

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 perfecti...

Jun 01, 202519 min

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 did...

May 25, 202517 min

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...

May 18, 202524 min

How to Stop Caring What Others Think - #186

In today’s episode, join Jocelin as she shines a light on the common fear of what people think and equips you with actionable steps to ride with more confidence and joy, regardless of who's watching. She tackles the silent struggle that holds many riders back: the fear of judgment. Whether it's during training sessions, competitions, or after making a mistake, this fear can sap your confidence and steal the joy from your riding. But it doesn't have to. Learn practical steps to recognize, challen...

May 12, 202515 min

Overcoming Fear of Failure with an Experienced Horse - #185

In this podcast episode, Jocelin and Lorna tackles the common fear of failure that arises when riders take on horses who have competed at a higher level and how the pressure of a horse's past achievements can lead to self-doubt and anxiety about not measuring up. In this episode, we explore: Why the pressure of a horse's past achievements can trigger fear of failure. The importance of understanding your goals with this horse (learning vs. proving). Why comparing your progress to the horse's prev...

May 04, 202518 min

How We got a First World Championships Qualification - #184

This episode is all about documenting a huge milestone in our journey — our first qualification for the World Championships for 7-year-old event horses! I’m taking you behind the scenes of the ride that made it happen, the mindset that carried us through, and the lessons you can apply to your own goals and dreams. In this episode, I share: The story of our second 2*L and how we pulled off our best performance yet Why setting big goals but releasing expectations is the key to loving the journey H...

Apr 27, 202532 min

Why You Feel Frustrated & What To Do About It - #183

Frustration: Your Secret Weapon or Biggest Riding Roadblock? In this powerful episode, Jocelin and Lorna unpacks the hidden potential of frustration in equestrian performance, revealing how your mental approach can transform seemingly impossible challenges into breakthrough moments. We dive deep into: ✔ Why frustration is actually a growth opportunity, not a setback ✔ How controlling outcomes sabotages your riding progress ✔ The critical difference between helpful frustration and destructive sel...

Apr 20, 202520 min

Mental Self Sabotage: 4 Common Interferences - #182

Have you had that ride that started great and then suddenly spiraled into frustration? In this episode, Jocelin brings you behind the scenes of a pretty intense XC lesson she had last week. She's breaking down the four specific ways she sabotaged herself during that lesson, and how you can learn to spot (and stop) these mental interferences in your own riding. This one’s a real peek behind the curtain into the good, the messy, and the super relatable realities of performance under pressure. If y...

Apr 13, 202516 min

Key Reminders for The First Event of The Season - #181

Your mindset at competitions can either elevate your riding or sabotage your success. In this episode, we reflect on our first events of the season, sharing insights on how setting clear intentions, embracing mistakes, and staying present can drastically improve your performance and enjoyment. We also discuss: ✔ Why setting rigid expectations often leads to disappointment ✔ The importance of defining success beyond scores ✔ How laughter and relaxation transform your competitive mindset ✔ Using c...

Apr 06, 202544 min

The Messy Middle - #180

Do you feel like you’re stuck in the “in-between”? Like you’re doing the work but nothing seems to click, and you’re constantly second-guessing yourself? Welcome to the messy middle, that phase in your riding, season, or growth where clarity feels miles away, self-doubt creeps in, and progress seems invisible. In this episode, Jocelin breaks down what the messy middle really is, why it’s mentally challenging, and most importantly, how to keep your head in the game when things feel hard. If you’r...

Mar 30, 202518 min

10 Mind Rules to Get Out of Your Own Way - #179

Your mind can either hold you back or be your greatest asset. In this episode, we break down 10 Mind Rules that will help you take control of your thoughts, build unshakable confidence, and get your mind working for you instead of against you. We also talk about: ✔ Why trying harder can actually make things worse ✔ The power of visualization (and how it works 80% as well as actually riding) ✔ How tiny, consistent changes create massive long-term progress ✔ How your thoughts literally shape your ...

Mar 24, 202537 min

Stop Saying “Good Luck”, Here's Why... - #178

Do you really need luck—or do you need confidence in your preparation? In this episode, Jocelin breaks down why the words you use matter more than you think. Saying “good luck” seems harmless, but it subtly shifts the focus away from your effort, skill, and preparation—reinforcing the idea that success is up to fate. But here’s the truth: you are in control Want more mindset and performance hacks? Sign up for our weekly emails: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Let’s Work Together: 🚀 Ready to take owne...

Mar 17, 202516 min

Breaking Barriers in Equestrian Sport with Ela Zembilci - #177

What does it take to break barriers and pave the way for future riders? In this episode, Jocelin and Lorna sat down with the incredible Ela Zembilci, whose deep-rooted equestrian history and personal journey make for an inspiring conversation. Ela's family has played a pivotal role in shaping the horse industry in Turkey—from her grandfather founding the Turkish Jockey Club to her mother becoming the first licensed female jockey in the world. Ela shares her own competitive riding career, the cha...

Mar 10, 202550 min

How to Win Today - #176

Are you ending your day frustrated by everything you didn’t get done? What if success was as simple as one daily action? In this episode, Jocelin will talk about strategies on how to win the day and what to do if you miss a day (and how to bounce back fast) ACTION TIP: Define your winning action for the day, post it on social media, and tag me on Instagram (@jocelinlillienau) using the hashtag #winningtheday. Let’s hold each other accountable! Sign up to receive Weekly Mindset and Performance Ha...

Mar 03, 202519 min

Breaking Free from Spiraling Negative Thoughts - #175

Found yourself spiraling in negative thoughts? In this episode, we break down why negative thoughts stick , how to stop them before they take over, and practical mindset shifts that help you ride with more confidence and clarity . You’ll learn: The real reason we get stuck in worry and anxiety A simple mindset shift to stop self-sabotaging Powerful visuals (like the ‘floating cloud’ and ‘inflatable ball’) to help you let go of fear Sign up to receive our Weekly Mindset and Performance Hacks: www...

Feb 24, 202522 min

React Faster in the Ring: Ride with Feel, Not Thought - #174

Do you feel like your reactions in the ring are too slow? Like by the time you realize you need to adjust, it’s already too late? 🤯 Here’s the truth: Top riders aren’t just physically skilled—they’ve trained their MINDS to make split-second decisions without overthinking. And guess what? You can too. In this episode, we’re breaking down: ✅ The 5 biggest mental blocks slowing you down ✅ Why overthinking & perfectionism kill your flow ✅ How to train your brain to react instinctively like an e...

Feb 17, 202517 min

Riding for Redemption with Elizabeth Topolskaya - #173

Get ready to be inspired! In this very special episode, Jocelin and Lorna welcome Elizabeth—a passionate show jumper from Dubai who reveals how she turned her ballet-trained perfectionism into unstoppable determination in the ring. Hear how she broke free from limiting beliefs and overcame life’s toughest challenges to discover her true riding potential. If you’re ready to unlock the mindset that fuels real transformation—both in and out of the saddle—you won’t want to miss Elizabeth’s remarkabl...

Feb 11, 20251 hr 6 min

My Word of the Year: Self-Trust - #172

What’s your word of the year? In this episode, I’m sharing the personal story behind mine—“Self-Trust.” Learn why I chose it, how I’m applying it to my riding and daily life, and how you can discover your own guiding word to elevate your mindset this year. We’ll explore setting bigger goals, trusting your decisions, and overcoming the urge to overthink. Ready to make this year your strongest one yet? Grab our Top 5 Favourite Mental Tools for Competitive Riders for FREE at www.mindeq.eu/mentaltoo...

Feb 03, 202511 min

Breaking Free from Past Coaching Trauma - #171

Caught yourself freezing in the saddle when flashbacks of harsh coaching or negative comments creep in? In this episode Jocelin & Lorna dive into powerful 90/10 rule to help you reclaim your mental space and regain control of your riding. Discover how you have more influence over your performance than you think. Ready for more? Download our 5 Favorite Mental Tools PDF—the same mindset strategies we use ourselves and with our riders—absolutely free. 👉 Grab your free PDF at: www.mindeq.eu/men...

Jan 27, 202521 min

What Happens When You Think "It Must Work Out" - #170

Have you gone into a ride thinking, 'This HAS to work out'? Whether it’s a show or a challenging exercise, that pressure can feel overwhelming. I’ve been there and let me tell you, it didn’t go as planned. In this episode, Jocelin is sharing her personal experience and what a client recently revealed about the same struggle. We’ll explore why the mindset of 'it MUST work' can sabotage your performance, and how shifting your focus to trust and presence can turn everything around. Access our Top 5...

Jan 20, 202511 min

Your Past Doesn’t Define You - #169

How to break free from old habits and patterns that keep showing up in your riding and in life? In this episode, Jocelin and Lorna share why your past does NOT have to dictate your future—and how a single thought can completely transform your experience. From practical tips on rewriting negative self-talk to insightful advice on becoming the “gatekeeper” of your own mind. You’ll learn how to set a new standard for yourself simply by choosing better thoughts, so you can start 2025 with a fresh pe...

Jan 13, 202515 min

From Trying Hard to Riding in Flow - #168

Have you felt that the harder you try in the saddle, the more everything seems to slip away? You chase that ideal stride or canter transition, yet it never quite falls into place. In this episode, we explore different riding “modes” that could be holding you back. By the end, you’ll learn a practical way to shift your mindset so you can finally ride with more flow and connection without getting stuck in your head. Download our FREE PDF of five essential mental tools at www.mindeq.eu/mentaltools ...

Jan 06, 202511 min

Goals to Fuel Motivation in 2025 - #167

Is Your End-of-Year Reflection Setting You Up for Success in 2025? In this episode, Jocelin and Lorna dive into the importance of looking back to leap forward. They discuss why honest year-end reflections are the key to forming rock-solid goals for 2025—and how to do it without letting fear of failure hold you back. From embracing the lessons in every “bad” ride to breaking big dreams into achievable action steps, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help you finish strong and set ...

Dec 30, 202428 min

Improve Your Decision Making - #166

Do you find yourself hesitating over the simplest of choices? In this episode, Jocelin will share how she transformed her fear of “getting it wrong” into a powerful tool for growth, both as a rider and in her everyday life. She’ll uncover why decisions feel so daunting, how embracing imperfection actually leads to better outcomes, and what happens when you finally name your worst-case scenario. By the end, you’ll walk away with a whole new perspective—and a plan—to approach decisions confidently...

Dec 23, 202411 min
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