The Power of Small Successes - Lessons from Tracy Neville for Every Rider
Discover how to build unshakeable riding confidence using the same powerful mindset strategy that transformed the England Netball team under coach Tracy Neville. In this episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast, Neil explores why celebrating small successes isn’t just a feel-good idea, it’s a proven performance tool that boosts confidence, motivation, and resilience in every rider.
Whether you struggle with nerves, perfectionism, self-doubt, or simply want to feel more positive in the saddle, this episode gives you practical, easy-to-use tools you can apply today. You’ll learn how to spot 1% improvements, stay mentally strong during tough rides, and build a partnership with your horse based on progress, not pressure.
Neil also shares personal stories from his own yard, helping you feel seen, supported, and connected. Join the conversation by sharing your own small wins inside the Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast Facebook group.
👉 Want more free mindset tips, episode updates, and exclusive insights? Join Neil’s mailing list
Perfect for riders who want a calmer mind, a stronger partnership, and a more joyful riding journey.
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Discover the mindset shift reshaping the future of modern dressage.
In this episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast, Neil explores the rise of a new generation of dressage riders who lead with empathy, softness, emotional intelligence, and true horse-first training.
You’ll learn:
What today’s most influential riders are doing differently
Why this approach is transforming the future of dressage
How emotional regulation and rider mindset directly impact your horse
Practical tools you can use to ride with more clarity, confidence, and connection
How everyday riders can help build a more ethical, positive equestrian culture
Whether you compete, train at home, or simply want a deeper connection with your horse, this episode will inspire you to bring curiosity, calmness, and feel into every ride.
Perfect for dressage riders, coaches, amateurs, and anyone passionate about horse-centred training.
If you believe the future of dressage should be kinder, softer, more intelligent, and more connected, this is the episode for you.
Tune in now and become part of the positive change.
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Breathing Patterns to Stay Calm Under Pressure
In this empowering episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast, equestrian mindset coach Neil Foster reveals how your breathing patterns can transform your confidence, calm, and connection with your horse, especially under pressure.
Discover how the autonomic nervous system affects your riding performance, why nasal breathing helps you stay grounded, and learn science-based breathwork techniques you can start using today.
Neil guides you through practical breathing exercises like the 4-6 pattern and Box Breathing to help you regulate nerves, improve focus, and ride with calm confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for competition or simply want to enjoy your rides more, this episode will help you breathe better, think clearer, and ride with purpose.
FREE GIFT: Download your Free Breathwork Guide for Riders with step-by-step breathing techniques and exercises mentioned in this episode at
FREE Download
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Is Dressage Facing a Crisis or a Mindset Reset
Is dressage really in crisis, or is it simply calling for a mindset reset?
In this thoughtful 10-minute episode, equestrian mindset coach Neil Foster explores the challenges facing modern dressage, from welfare concerns and falling spectator numbers to rising costs and shifting rider habits. But rather than focusing on the negatives, Neil dives deeper into what the sport truly needs to evolve and thrive: a change in mindset.
You’ll discover how perfectionism, pressure, and performance culture have disconnected many riders from the joy and harmony that define classical dressage. Neil discusses how shifting focus from control to connection, and from perfection to progress, can reignite both passion and purpose in the arena and beyond it.
Whether you’re a grassroots competitor or a professional rider, this episode will help you:
Reconnect with why you fell in love with dressage in the first place
Understand how your mindset shapes your confidence, your partnership, and your performance
Learn simple mental strategies to overcome pressure and rediscover joy in your riding
Explore how compassion and authenticity can rebuild the culture of the sport
Dressage isn’t dying, it’s evolving. And that evolution starts with you.
Tune in now to The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast and explore how mindset, mindfulness, and connection can reshape the future of dressage, one ride at a time.
Click here to download your FREE 10 minute Rider Confidence Audio
To continue the conversation join The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast Facebook Group
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Hypnosis for Riders - Busting the Myths & Finding the Truth
Hypnosis for Riders - Busting the Myths & Finding the Truth
Discover the truth about hypnosis and how it can transform your riding confidence, focus, and performance. In this powerful episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast, equestrian mindset coach Neil Foster explores the science, psychology, and neuroscience behind hypnosis for riders, and busts the biggest myths that keep many equestrians from unlocking their full potential.
Learn how hypnosis helps riders overcome fear, rebuild confidence after a fall, manage nerves, and ride with calm connection. Backed by real-world research and rider success stories, Neil explains how this natural mental state can rewire your mind for success, both in and out of the saddle.
What you’ll discover:
What hypnosis really is (and what it isn’t)
How hypnosis affects the rider’s brain and body
The neuroscience behind calmness, confidence, and focus
How top athletes use hypnosis and mental rehearsal for peak performance
Real stories from riders who have used hypnosis to regain trust, courage, and joy
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Free 10-Minute Rider Confidence Audio - Click to sign up for yours
The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast Facebook Group
Coming soon: Free Rider Confidence Workbook & Hypnosis Recording
If you’re ready to understand the truth about hypnosis and harness your subconscious power to become a more confident, connected rider, this episode is for you.
Don’t forget to like, follow, and share the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podbean to help more riders discover these powerful mindset tools.
The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast
Equestrian Mindset Coaching for Confidence, Focus & Peak Riding Performance
Unlock your full potential as a rider with The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast—the go-to podcast for horse riders who want to boost confidence, overcome fear, and develop a winning mindset in the saddle.
Hosted by Neil Foster, a leading equestrian mindset coach, this podcast delivers practical, psychology-based mindset training to help you ride with clarity, courage, and control. Whether you’re preparing for a competition or working with your horse at home, each episode equips you with the tools to ride at your best—mentally and physically.
What You’ll Learn in Each Episode:
How to overcome riding anxiety and fear of failure
Strategies to build mental toughness and riding confidence
Goal-setting techniques for equestrian success
Ways to strengthen the bond between horse and rider
Proven mindset tools used by elite equestrian athletes
This podcast is ideal for dressage riders, show jumpers, eventers, and passionate amateurs who want to gain a competitive edge and enjoy their riding journey with more belief and less stress.
If you’re ready to think like a champion and ride with purpose, subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app. Because when you master your mindset, every ride becomes a success.
New Zealand