Equestrian Mama

This week, I’m joined by Sarah Farrell (@annietheoneeyedhunter) for a conversation about identity shifts, infertility, horses, and finding your footing in a completely new season of life.Sarah shares her journey from professional groom to amateur rider, and how that transition unexpectedly opened the door to something new. We talk candidly about her path to motherhood through six rounds of IUI and IVF, the emotional realities of trying to conceive, and the life that follows.We also dive into her new venture, Groom School, resources designed to help amateur riders feel more confident caring for and managing their own horses.This episode is honest, thoughtful, funny, and incredibly relatable for anyone who’s ever had to rebuild their identity inside or outside the barn.You can find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

If you’ve ever felt like you came to this sport “too late”… or wondered how you'll manage horses and motherhood, this episode is going to hit home.This week, Lucy is joined by Marcela Pomphrey, better known as the “40-something dressage diva,” whose refreshingly honest take on riding, ambition, and progress has resonated with amateur riders around the world.In this conversation, they dive into what it actually looks like to buy your first horse at age 40, how to balance horses with motherhood, and why it’s not only possible—but powerful—to take your riding seriously at any stage of life.Whether you’re getting back in the saddle after time away, chasing new levels with your current horse, or quietly holding onto bigger dreams… this episode will remind you that your riding still matters.🎧 Listen now let us know what you think! Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

In this episode, Lucy talks with Lee Evans Lee, founder of Mrs Momma Bear, about what it really looks like to have the courage to make changes in your life, both big and small.Lee shares her perspective on the quiet strength that motherhood builds, and why moms are often more powerful than they give themselves credit for. From navigating identity shifts to trusting your instincts to appreciating each phase of parenting, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t need to have everything figured out to take the next step forward.Lucy and Lee also dive into the idea that sometimes the simplest things can bring us back to ourselves, and why “touching grass” might be more than just a saying when life feels overwhelming.This episode is for the mom who knows she’s capable of more, even if she’s still figuring out what that looks like.Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

In this episode of Equestrian Mama, Lucy talks with professional show jumper (currently on a hot streak of wins!) and mom of two, Syd Shulman Desiderio.Currently competing at the top levels of the sport, Syd shares what it looks like to balance high-performance riding at WEF with raising two young boys. She opens up about the self-awareness that has allowed her to find her own “sweet spot” in both motherhood and competition, and how her perspective on winning has evolved in this season of life.Lucy and Syd also dive into the powerful influence of Syd’s own mother, a professional rider who shaped her upbringing and continues to impact the way she approaches motherhood today. Syd’s admiration for her mom is both tangible and inspiring, offering a glimpse into the kind of legacy many mothers hope to create.This conversation goes beyond the highlight reel to explore identity, goals, and the reality of doing both, without doing it all.Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

On this episode of Equestrian Mama, Lucy sits down with voiceover artist, musician, horse girl, and mom of two Liz Hill Heiber, known online as @Voiceoversandponies.Just two weeks after welcoming her second baby at home, Liz joins the show to talk about her unconventional path through the music industry, the horse that unexpectedly helped her meet her husband, and what life really looks like raising babies in a house full of horses.From voiceover booths to barn aisles, Liz shares her journey through creativity, motherhood, home birth, and building a life that blends it all together.Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

In this episode, Lucy sits down with Andrea Wise, founder of Legally Sound, a law practice dedicated to serving the equestrian community.Andrea shares her own horse girl beginnings and the path that led her to building a legal practice focused entirely on our industry. We talk about the contracts, agreements, and tricky situations that riders, trainers, and horse owners often face, and how having the right legal structure in place can protect both your business and your peace of mind.We also dive into what it looks like to be both an equestrian professional and an influencer in today’s online world, including Andrea's experiences in the early days of online entrepreneurship. Andrea also opens up about navigating motherhood while running a business, including the experience of sending her first child to kindergarten during the uncertainty of the COVID years.This conversation is full of practical insight, honest reflections, and a reminder that protecting your work and your family life often starts with asking the right questions and putting the right agreements in place.Whether you're a rider, trainer, business owner, or equestrian content creator, this episode will give you a clearer picture of how to stay legally sound in the horse world.Find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

Motherhood changes everything.Your body. Your priorities. Your ambition. The way you move through the barn. The way you see yourself.In this deeply honest conversation, Erin Lane shares her journey through a career in horses, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and the quiet, complicated process of finding herself again on the other side of motherhood.We talk about:Building a life and identity around horsesExperiencing pregnancy and loss while still showing up professionallyThe grief no one quite knows how to talk about in our industryHow motherhood reshaped her career goals and daily prioritiesWhat she’s choosing to focus on, consume, and protect in this season of lifeAnd what “healing” actually looks like when you’re still in the middle of itThis is a long-form, unfiltered 90-minute conversation about ambition, grief, resilience, and the version of yourself you become after everything shifts.If you’ve ever felt like you’re rebuilding your identity in the saddle while raising children at home, this episode is for you.—If you’d like early access to upcoming episodes and exclusive content, make sure you’re on the Equestrian Mama email list. Sign up and check out all we are working on at www.equestrianmama.com.And if this conversation resonates, share it with another equestrian mama who needs to hear it.

In this episode, Lucy talks with Helen Abrams of Life Equestrian. Helen is an equestrian influencer based in California and brings a fresh perspective of gratitude surrounding all the changes that motherhood can bring to one's life.Helen and Lucy chat all things body changes, anxiety, comparing (or not comparing) on social media, and so much more. So many gems of advice and validation in this episode....enjoy!Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com, and find Lucy on Instagram @lucyintheskywithsapphires

A sequel to our Empowering Home Births, this episode of Equestrian Mama is a collection of three positive birth stories that took place in a hospital. Fellow equestrian mamas including artist Georgie Turner, FEI trainer Alexa Derr, and our own host, Lucy Courchaine tell their happy ending birth stories.Meant to inspire, empower and entertain, these stories are full of love and joy - have your tissues handy!You can find more resources and support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

In this episode, Lucy sits down with widely known and revered natural horsemanship and eventing trainer, Amy Bowers. Amy recently had her first baby after a challenging pregnancy and delivery experience, and she and Lucy cover all the details of life as a professional and Equestrian Mama. Amy's interesting history, family relationship to Pat Parelli, real talk on life in the newborn trenches and rider body image postpartum make this a fascinating episode. If you like this episode, please leave a positive rating and review! You can find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

In this episode, Lucy sits down with acclaimed podcast host, Caroline Culbertson of Horse Person Podcast. Following their previous episode on pregnancy loss, Lucy and Caroline share their individual experiences with pregnancy after a miscarriage.Lucy and Caroline dive into the emotions, recovery, and conversations that need to be shared surrounding this topic. They chat about talking to older kids about loss, moving forward mentally and physically, and so much more. We hope you enjoy this episode with an open heart, and help us share the message of understanding in whatever way this episode resonates with you.Find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com

What does real ranch life look like when you're balancing cattle, kids, and building a business? In this episode, Lucy sits down with Jessie Jarvis — ranching mama, entrepreneur, and founder of Of The West — to talk about the unfiltered reality of life in the ag world.We chat about what it's like raising a family on the land, how she’s championing western industry careers through her job platform, and what the rest of us can learn from ranch life, even if we've never touched a pair of cowboy boots.This conversation is fascinating, funny, and honestly just cool — much like Jessie herself.Love this episode? Subscribe to never miss a thing! You can also find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode of Equestrian Mama, Lucy sits down to chat with Carlotta Montanari of the elite horse rental company, Four Legs on Set. They chat about Carlotta's history and experiences with horses, how she started her business, the famous people who have hired her horses for their projects, and of course, her journey in motherhood. Love this episode? Please leave a positive rating or review! You can find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy chats with writer and saddleseat rider, Brittany Chaffee. They discuss everything from Saddlebreds in the horse industry to riding while pregnant to parenting small kids, all from a true horse girl perspective. Brittany is warm and kind and listening to this episode is like visiting with an old friend - you don't want to miss it!Love this episode? Leave us a positive rating and review! You can find cool products and more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

This is the first episode in a new collection of positive birth stories from other Equestrian Mamas. These three Home Birth stories (from Hannah Childs, Megan Muscarella and Johanna Kremberg) will make you laugh, cry, and gasp in amazement at the strength of women, especially during the absolute miracle that is human birth. Anyone can enjoy these stories; as visualization for something you hope for…for remembering the magical experience of the birth of your own children, or simply listening and connecting to the power of female energy during one of our strongest moments in life. This episode, specifically, features home births, therefore unmedicated, both planned and unexpected!Birth stories of all kinds will be explored and shared in upcoming episodes (stay tuned for Positive Hospital Birth Stories coming up next).Love this episode? Subscribe, leave a positive rating or review! More support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood can be found at www.equestrianmama.com.

Lucy chats with Megan Muscarella, California-based fit model and founder of Solid Citizen Equestrian. Megan talks about all the very intentional choices she made for herself and her baby before, during and after recent pregnancy. The cover so many parts of Megan's life and motherhood journey, including: health & nutrition, creating capsule clothing collections from scratch, movement during pregnancy, support during postpartum and more. Love this episode? Visit www.equestrianmama.com to find more resources and support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood.

In this episode, Lucy talks with Jill Tweedy, founder of the beloved equestrian lifestyle brand Tucker Tweed. Jill shares her journey from horse lover to business owner, how she raised two boys, built a successful brand, and her best tips for juggling motherhood, business, and barn time.If you're an equestrian mom (or a busy multitasker trying to do it all), you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!🔹 Jill’s background & how she started Tucker Tweed🔹 Motherhood & raising kids as a horsewoman🔹 Time management tips for moms wearing all the hats🔹 Advice for equestrian entrepreneurs balancing work, family, and horsesLove this episode? Leave us a rating and review! Find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at ⁠EquestrianMama.com⁠. 

In this episode, Lucy chats with the woman behind the Milton Menasco brand, Alli Addison. Alli is a rider in both the English and Western worlds and a working ranch mom of two kids. Along with talking about the brand and Alli’s own experiences in the horse world, Lucy and Alli dive into chatting about raising kids who have access to nice horses, keeping kids humble and engaged, teaching financial responsibility in the horse world at a young age, and more. Love this episode? Leave us a rating and review! Find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at EquestrianMama.com. 

In this episode, Lucy talks to the founder of VALA Equestrian, Bec Christian. Bec developed this Australian brand after returning to riding postpartum, frustrated with the uncomfortable riding clothes options on the market at the time. She navigated starting a clothing brand from scratch while raising her young daughter, Arabella. Lucy chats with Bec about her life with horses, her brand’s story, and of course, her journey in motherhood.Love this episode? You can find more support for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy talks to the founder of SAS Equestrian, Shawna Whitty. Shawna is a renowned equine photographer with a base in Toronto during the summer and Wellington, Florida, in the winter. Her photography business is highly sought after, specializing in equine portraits, black-and-white backgrounds, and capturing the essence of the equestrian lifestyle. Beyond her professional achievements, Shawna is a proud mother of two young children: a 2½-year-old son and a 15-month-old daughter. The discussion highlights Shawna's background in horses and photography prior to motherhood, the evolution of her career since, the shared experiences of working moms, and her efforts to balance it all.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy talks to business owner and mother Carly Prosser. Carly is the founder of Marengo Equestrian, a retail business that offers a curated selection of products and lifestyle goods for horses and riders. Carly is based in Atlanta, GA, and is the mother of a 7-year-old girl, Naomi, and a 5-year-old boy, Pierce. They discuss Carly’s riding background and what inspired her to start her two businesses that fulfilled a niche need in the industry. They also discuss horses' intuition and kindness around children and the importance of a happy and fulfilled mother.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy talks about her postpartum experience with her second child, Zelda. Lucy talks about her birth and the first few weeks with her new baby, the similarities and differences between the first and second time, how she prepared differently with the past experience in mind, and postpartum riding.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy talks to business owner and mother Hannah Childs. Hannah is based in California and is the woman behind the stunning equestrian apparel brand Hannah Childs Equestrian. She is also a relatively new mom to an almost one-year-old girl named Stella. They discuss what inspired Hannah to start her brand and the adjustments she had to make during pregnancy and postpartum to ensure that the brand continued to thrive. They also discuss the importance of taking time to bond with their baby and staying in tune with their own body so that they can figure out what they need to thrive as a mother.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, Lucy talks about the last stretch of her second pregnancy. Lucy discusses having to stop riding and the effect it’s had on her mental health, struggling with not having a planned timeline, and the things she’s doing to combat the challenges of pregnancy. Lucy is sharing a candid look into the final weeks of her pregnancy in hopes of relating to women experiencing the same challenges.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Raquel Lynn, the visionary behind Horses & Heels and Stable Style, joins Lucy to share her journey from lifestyle blogging to balancing business with motherhood. As an influential voice in the equestrian world, Raquel reveals how she transformed her love for horses and design into a thriving career. Listen in as they discuss:How Raquel built her blogs into full-time work while navigating career transitionsThe process of creating her beloved barn design coffee table bookHer approach to new motherhood while managing a growing businessTips for staying organized and motivated, even with a little one at homeLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Leah Kaufman, founder of the equestrian brand Dapple Bay, shares her journey of growing a community-centered brand while navigating the profound changes that motherhood brings. In this episode, Leah opens up about:Building Dapple Bay from a passion project into a thriving businessThe realities of her pregnancy journey and the adjustments that came with becoming a momHow motherhood reshaped her approach to career, balance, and accepting helpDapple Bay’s exciting future as it’s acquired by a larger company, allowing Leah to focus on her creative visionLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Join Lucy Courchain for a powerful conversation with Brianna Noble, founder of Urban Cowgirl Ranch and tireless advocate for inclusivity in the equestrian world. In this revealing episode, Brianna opens up about the profound shifts in her approach to horsemanship after becoming a mother, from reassessing risks to reimagining what success looks like in the saddle.Together, they explore the challenges of navigating a male-dominated industry while building community and creating change. The discussion takes an intimate turn as both women share their experiences with maternal healthcare disparities and the importance of speaking up for better care. Through their parallel journeys of entrepreneurship, advocacy, and motherhood, Brianna and Lucy illuminate the path toward a more inclusive and supportive equestrian community.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Join Lucy Courchaine for an inspiring conversation with Jena Antonucci, the groundbreaking thoroughbred trainer who made history as the first woman to win the Belmont Stakes in 2023. In this candid discussion, Jena shares how she's reshaping the racing industry while navigating life as a stepmother of four.Jena shares her experiences breaking down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport, her nurturing approach to both horses and family, and her vision for a more inclusive racing industry. From maintaining work-life balance at the highest levels of competition to ensuring integrity in racing, Jena offers a fresh perspective on combining professional excellence with family life.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Join Lucy for an enlightening conversation with Emily Bushnell, owner of Endeavor Therapeutic Horsemanship and PATH certified instructor, who shares her powerful journey of combining motherhood with an impactful equestrian career. How the barn becomes a sanctuary for both parent and child, offering unique sensory experiences and moments of peaceThe game-changing role of a supportive partner in pursuing professional dreams while raising a familyBreaking the silence around maternal mental health in the equestrian communityThe transformative power of horses in building children's confidence and emotional intelligenceCreating a meaningful career that combines horsemanship with community servicePractical strategies for maintaining professional momentum while embracing motherhoodLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Host Lucy Courchaine sits down with Betsy Steiner, a Grand Prix dressage rider, trainer, and USDF Gold medalist. Betsy shares her journey of balancing motherhood with a thriving professional equestrian career. Together, Lucy and Betsy discuss:The emergence of compassionate, loving, and disciplined qualities through motherhood and how they translate to horse training The parallels between raising children and training horses, and the insights gained from both experiences The importance of blending feminine and masculine qualities for a more complete approach to training and parenting How community support among mothers in the equestrian world can be invaluable The challenges of balancing career and family life and rejecting the industry's constant hustle mentality for better work-life harmonyBetsy also reflects on the evolution of her parenting and professional philosophies and stresses the importance of acting from the heart in both areas of life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with wisdom and heartfelt moments.Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Join host Lucy Courchaine as she sits down with Canadian designer and founder of Asmar Equestrian, Noel Asmar, in an inspiring conversation that spans life, business, and the equestrian world. Noel shares her journey from horse-crazy kid to fashion innovator, all while navigating the challenges of motherhood and building an award-winning brand.Highlights:The inspiration behind the All Weather Rider Jacket and Noel's approach to creating timeless equestrian apparelBalancing family, business, and horses as a mother of threeAdapting to motherhood while leading an international brandLessons on resilience and reinvention for equestrian professionalsIdeas for creating a sustainable career path in the equestrian industryLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this deeply personal episode, host Lucy Courchaine talks with Caroline Culbertson, former host and producer of the award-winning podcast Equestrian Voices. Caroline opens up about her recent experience with pregnancy loss and how she navigated the emotional journey alongside her two young children and a career in equestrian media. Together, Lucy and Caroline discuss:Their shared experiences with pregnancy loss and the isolation that often accompanies itThe role of horses in healing and finding purpose after lossHow equestrian communities can offer unique support through griefThe strength in sharing difficult stories and redefining motherhood after lossLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, host Lucy Courchain chats with Taryn Young, the dynamic force behind the popular Instagram account Warmbloods + Wine (@warmbloodsandwine) and the clothing line Novella Equestrian. Taryn shares her unique journey balancing life as an amateur dressage competitor, entrepreneur, and mom. Listen in as Taryn talks about:Her path to creating a supportive equestrian community with Warmbloods + WineThe inspiration behind launching her equestrian brand, Novella Equestrian, and the hurdles she’s faced along the wayRiding through pregnancy and navigating the highs and lows of motherhood in the saddleHow to build a support network and stay positive through life’s challengesLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this episode, host Lucy Courchaine opens up about the uncharted postpartum journey, sharing her experiences balancing recovery, breastfeeding, and life in the barn. She covers the essentials that made her return to the saddle smoother and her life as a new mom a little easier, including:Tips on balancing riding with breastfeedingKey products that make barn life easier with a babyInsights on physical recovery timelinesHow to handle setbacks and find supportThe role of horses in emotional healingLove this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

Wondering if it’s safe to ride while pregnant? Curious about how other equestrian mamas balance their love of horses with pregnancy? Dr. Kathleen Bertuna—a seasoned OB/GYN and lifelong equestria—joins Lucy to share her expert advice and personal insights.In this episode, Dr. Bertuna covers:What really happens to your body when you’re riding while pregnantKey physical and mental health considerations for pregnant ridersHow to evaluate your personal risk tolerance, from early weeks to the third trimesterTips for navigating advice from family and partners, and finding medical support that understands your goalsThe realities of postpartum recovery for riders, and why pelvic floor therapy is an absolute game-changerIf you’re an equestrian mama or mama-to-be, Dr. Bertuna offers relatable, no-nonsense advice that balances safety with the unique needs of our riding community. Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.

In this premiere episode of Equestrian Mama, Grand Prix dressage rider and Sapphire Sport Horses owner Lucy Courchaine shares her honest journey through her first pregnancy during the uncertainty of 2021. Lucy opens up about the unique challenges self-employed equestrians face—from navigating pregnancy without formal maternity leave to making difficult decisions with clients who didn’t understand her new priorities.With warmth and honesty, Lucy talks about riding while pregnant, the unexpected strength she found, and how balancing work and impending motherhood shaped her outlook. For equestrians on similar paths, this episode is both a guide and a source of solidarity. Love this episode? Find more resources for equestrians in pregnancy, postpartum and parenthood at www.equestrianmama.com.