Over The Oxer

The Hidden Triggers Behind Riding Confidence (And How to Reset Them)

In this episode of Over the Oxer, I'm talking about something you’re already using -  whether you realise it or not.
Anchors.
In NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), an anchor is the link your brain creates between a stimulus and an emotional state. The sound of the competition bell. Walking into the warm-up arena. Even putting your boots on.
Some anchors build confidence.Some trigger anxiety.And most of them were created accidentally.
In this episode, I explain:
– What anchors actually are in everyday life– How riders unconsciously move from anchor to anchor throughout the day– Why certain places, sounds or situations trigger nerves– How strong emotional moments create lasting mental patterns– And how you can deliberately install positive anchors that hold under pressure
This isn’t about positive thinking. It’s about understanding how your nervous system naturally conditions responses — and learning how to work with it instead of against it.
 
If you’ve ever wondered why you can feel calm one minute and tense the next, this episode will make it clear.
 
⚓️ And if you’d like to go deeper into installing anchors that genuinely shift your riding mindset, I also share details about my upcoming Anchoring Workshop. https://traceycolenlp.com/mental-anchors-for-better-riding-performance/
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
🧠Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training: Starts 18thMay. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards) https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
🎓 NLP Trainers Training: 1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
📕 Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook: https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Competition Time! Win a Tuck 'N' Treat

To win one of the Tuck 'N' Treats from Heica Feeders, answer this question:
 
What are the Tuck 'N' Treats made out of?
 
www.en.heicahorse.com
Send your answers to info@traceycolenlp.com

The Finnish Secret to Happy Horses: with Sonja & Katja from Heica Hay Feeders

In this episode of Over the Oxer, we travel (virtually!) to Finland to speak with Sonja and Katja, the founders of Heica Hay Feeders. Finland is at the forefront of equestrian welfare legislation, and my guests provide a fascinating look at how these new regulations are changing the landscape for horse owners.
We dive deep into the philosophy of equine enrichment: moving beyond the idea of "slow feeding" to creating a lifestyle that respects the horse’s natural behaviours. Sonja and Katja share the origin story of Heica, explaining how a search for a better feeder evolved into a mission to provide mental stimulation for horses in stables and paddocks worldwide.
In this episode, we discuss:
Equestrian Culture in Finland: What makes the Finnish approach to horse care unique?
The New Regulations: A breakdown of the latest welfare standards in Finland and what they mean for the future of horse ownership.
From Feeding to Enrichment: Why "slow feeding" was only the beginning for Heica.
The Psychology of the Stable: How to use enrichment tools to reduce stress and boredom-related behaviors.
Innovation in Design: How Sonja and Katja built a brand centred on horse welfare.
👉Heica Feeders website: https://en.heicahorse.com/category/11/heica-feeders 
 
👉Follow Heica
🐎On Instagram (English): https://www.instagram.com/heica_hayfeeders/
[Finnish, Swedish, German and Hungarian channels too]
 
🐎On Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093350024074
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Mental Anchoring Workshop 19th March 2026 10am-1pm UK time on Zoom. For equestrians and coaches. Recordings available. https://traceycolenlp.com/product/mental-anchors-for-riding-performance/
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
📕 Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook: https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Push Harder or Heal Deeper?

When things go wrong in the saddle, do you push harder… or shut down?
This week I compare the powerful (and very different) thinking of Alfred Adler and Carl Jung—and how their ideas can transform the way you handle mistakes, pressure, and ambition in riding.
Achievement or healing?Maybe the answer is both.
 
Mental Anchors Workshop
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/mental-anchors-for-riding-performance/
 
Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Watch on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@traceycolenlp2086
 
Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
 
Starts 18th May. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
Next NLP Master Practitioner Training:
 
NLP Only. Starts 15th April. Every Wednesday 1:30-5pm. Recordings made available. NLP Practitioner or Coach as pre-requisite. https://traceycolenlp.com/product/nlp-master-practitioner-coach/
 
NLP Trainers Training:
 
1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook:
 
https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Chatting with Havening Techniques® Practitioner, Sue Hill

Sue Hill is a Havening Techniques® Practitioner, trained in NLP, hypnosis and EFT, and she’s currently in the final stages of becoming a Havening Techniques Practitioner Trainer. She helps clients reduce anxiety, overwhelm and emotional triggers using gentle, effective techniques that calm the nervous system and create lasting change. Sue’s focus is simple: helping people feel better fast, giving them tools they can use for life, and making Havening accessible to as many people as possible.
 
👉 Contact Sue
https://www.findingyourhaven.co.uk 
https://www.facebook.com/findingyourhaven
 
👉Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com

What happens to confidence as we get older? When Your Brain Starts Paying the Mortgage!

In this episode of Over the Oxer, we explore how confidence changes as we get older and why riding can feel different than it did in your twenties. If you’re an older rider or adult horse rider, this episode is packed with insights on how your brain assesses risk, why adult confidence is selective and context dependent, and how trying to “ride like your younger self” can hold you back. Learn practical tips to work with your nervous system, build calm, sustainable confidence, and enjoy your horse more than ever. Perfect for equestrian mindset, horse riders, and adult riders looking to improve trust and partnership with their horse.
 
Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Mental Anchors for Better Riding Performance 
19th March 10-1pm UK time, recordings available. £45 per person
https://traceycolenlp.com/mental-anchors-for-better-riding-performance/ 
 
Watch on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@traceycolenlp2086
 
Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
 
Starts mid-May 2026. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
 
Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook:
 
https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

It's just toe curling, isn't it?

This week, I’m sharing a simple “toe curling” technique to help you reset your nervous system, release tension, and feel calmer—on your horse or anytime you need a quick mental reset. Plus, a little laugh about why some moments are just toe curling!
 
If you love the podcast, I’d be thrilled if you could nominate it in the Equestrian Media category at the Equestrian Business Awards: https://www.equestrianbusinessawards.co.uk/nominations
 
Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
Starts in May 2026. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
Next NLP Master Practitioner Training:
NLP Only. Starts 25th March 2026. Every Wednesday 1:30-5pm. Recordings made available. NLP Practitioner or Coach as pre-requisite. https://traceycolenlp.com/product/nlp-master-practitioner-coach/
 
NLP Trainers Training:
1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook:
https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Chatting with Equestrian and Owner of Epona's Horses, Maha Khallaf

On this episode, I’m joined by Maha Khallaf from Saudi Arabia, as she shares her inspiring journey back to horses as an adult rider and starting her own equestrian online shop.
Maha opens up about stepping away from riding for many years, returning to the saddle during a challenging period in her life, and navigating the mindset struggles adult riders know so well — fear of falling, overthinking, trauma and responsibility. She offers thoughtful insights and why healing the inner child can be key to riding with more confidence and calm.
We also explore what it’s really like to ride in Saudi Arabia, including cultural shifts for female riders, air-conditioned stables, riding after sunset in the summer heat, and how the equestrian world there is evolving rapidly.
Maha is the founder of Epona’s Horses, an international equestrian brand specialising in custom saddle pads, ear nets, rider and horse wear and therapeutic horse products.
 
🐎 Find out more about Epona's Horses
https://eponashorses.net/ar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eponashorses?igsh=MWJjcHUzYXF5YjBmcA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
 
🎁 Listener Offer
Maha is kindly offering Over the Oxer listeners:
A chance to win a free saddle pad and ear net (selected colours) - simply email me at info@traceycolenlp.com and I'll add your name to the draw on 31st January 2026
20% off anything else in her online shop - use the code EPNTRCY
Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Let's be social!
www.traceycolenlp.com
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
info@traceycolenlp.com
 
 

Chatting with ADHD Business Coach, Louise Tayler

In this episode of Over the Oxer, Tracey Cole is joined by Louise Tayler, an ADHD business coach who helps business owners, especially women, move from knowing what to do to actually doing it. Louise shares her personal journey of discovering her ADHD later in life and how understanding her neurodivergence transformed her mindset, motivation, and approach to work. They explore the different types of ADHD, the challenges of focus, emotional regulation, and motivation, and practical strategies for managing daily life. Louise also explains how horses can provide a calming, grounding influence for neurodivergent brains, and the importance of self-compassion and simple, actionable strategies for building sustainable, successful businesses. Plus, she introduces her free five-day Follow-Through Formulacourse designed to help you move from procrastination into action.
 
👉Contact Louise
On Instagram: @louise_understanding_adhd
Website: https://understanding-adhd.co.uk/
 
5️⃣ Day 'Follow Through Formula (free 5-day course) 
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
📺Watch on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@traceycolenlp2086
 
🤳Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
 
Starts in May 2026. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
Next NLP Master Practitioner Training:
 
NLP Only. Starts 18th June. Every Wednesday 1:30-5pm. Recordings made available. NLP Practitioner or Coach as pre-requisite. https://traceycolenlp.com/product/nlp-master-practitioner-coach/
 
NLP Trainers Training:
 
1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook:
https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref
 
Buy me a cup of tea!
Some kind people have suggested that my podcast is helping them with their riding and asked how they can help to defray the costs of making the podcast, (mostly editing software etc.). Many, many thanks, you can buy me a cup of tea here: www.buymeacoffee.com/?via=Ny2j49lgXB  
 

The Science of Energy Fields, Mindset and Riding

In this episode, Tracey explores 1930s research by neuroscientist Harold Saxton Burr that suggests we are surrounded by a measurable energy field that guides the body. Learn how your thoughts, emotions and tension could affect your riding and your horse and why understanding this invisible blueprint could change the way you ride (and think) forever.
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
🧠Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training: Starts in May. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards) https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
🎓 NLP Trainers Training: 1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
📕 Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook: https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Chatting with 3 incredible coaches - Sam, Sarah and Jo

In this episode, I’m joined by three outstanding equestrian coaches — each a highly qualified mindset coach and Master NLP Practitioner — for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of horsemanship, psychology and performance.
Dressage specialist Samantha Osborn, a Centre 10 Coach from Somerset, shares her insights into developing mental clarity, confidence and consistency in the arena. Sarah Gowling, BHS-APC and Centre 10 Coach from Northampton, brings a wealth of experience in supporting riders to perform under pressure while staying connected and balanced with their horses. Joanne Hopkins, BHS-qualified and based in Surrey, offers a unique perspective through her specialist work with ex-racehorses and thoroughbreds, exploring mindset approaches that build trust, adaptability and long-term partnership.
Together, we discuss how mindset and NLP techniques can transform both rider performance and the horse–human relationship, with practical takeaways you can apply whether you compete, train, or ride for pleasure. This episode is packed with insight, experience and actionable tools for any rider wanting to think better, ride better, and enjoy the journey more.
 
We mention the 'Hakalau' technique, here's the episode:
https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-xi6vq-146519b(August 2023)
 
Connect with the guests:
Sam Osborn - www.osborndressage.com 
Facebook: https://facebook.com/osborndressage
Instagram: https://instagram.com/osborndressage
 
Sarah Gowling - 
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/17Q5UkkApb/
 
Jo Hopkins - https://www.surreyhillsnlp.co.uk/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/coxlandstud
 
Contact Tracey
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
 
Starts12th January. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 

Feeling Time-Poor? Here's how to stretch time!

As we come to the very last episode of 2025 (and honestly, where did that year go?), I wanted to slow things down a little and end the year with something genuinely useful. In this episode, I explore why time can feel as though it’s racing away from us and, drawing on psychology and NLP, I share three simple, practical techniques you can use to change your experience of time—without adding another thing to your already full day. These are quick, realistic tools you can slip into everyday life, whether you’re at the yard, at work or juggling everything in between. It’s a reflective end-of-year episode designed to help you feel calmer, less rushed and more in control of your time as we head into the new year.

Chatting with British flat racingJockey, Georgia Dobie

In this week’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by rising British flat jockey Georgia Dobie. At just 26, Georgia has carved out an inspiring career in one of the toughest and most competitive corners of horse racing — and she’s still only getting started. From leaving home at 16 to train at the British Racing School, chasing her dreams across the UK and even to Australia, Georgia shares what it’s really like to make it as a professional jockey — the early mornings, fitness routines, the drive to succeed and the pressure of riding for multiple trainers across the country.
We dive deep into her journey from pony racing to riding winners on the flat, how she handles the mental and physical demands of racing and the camaraderie within the jockey community. Georgia also gives us a rare insight into juggling the jockey lifestyle with life off the track, staying focused under pressure, and what’s next for her in the 2026 season and beyond. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to ride at the heart of British racing with grit, heart and unwavering passion — you won’t want to miss this conversation. 🇬🇧🏇
 
Follow Georgia
https://www.instagram.com/georgiadobie/
 
Follow Equestrian R Infinity (Georgia is their jockey)
https://www.instagram.com/eqr.infinityltd/
https://www.facebook.com/EquestrianRInfinity
 
Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
Free mental imagery / visualisations (no sign-up necessary)
https://traceycolenlp.com/free-mental-imagery-recordings/
 
Free Words Have Power course (no sign-up necessary)
https://traceycolenlp.com/free-course-your-words-have-power/
 
Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training:
Starts 12th January 2026. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards)
https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
Next NLP Master Practitioner Training:
NLP Only. Starts 18th June 2026. Every Wednesday 1:30-5pm. Recordings made available. NLP Practitioner or Coach as pre-requisite. https://traceycolenlp.com/product/nlp-master-practitioner-coach/
 
Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook:
https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref
 
Buy me a cup of tea!
Some kind people have suggested that my podcast is helping them with their riding and asked how they can help to defray the costs of making the podcast, (mostly editing software etc.). Many, many thanks, you can buy me a cup of tea here: www.buymeacoffee.com/?via=Ny2j49lgXB  
 
 
 

The First Minutes in the Saddle: Mindset Mastery

You’ve prepared your mindset in the days leading up to a ride, and you’ve set yourself up for calm before mounting… but what happens once you’re actually in the saddle? In this final episode of the series, Tracey Cole reveals simple, practical strategies for those first crucial moments of your ride. From choosing a powerful anchor word to a quick body and mind check-in, and even reframing mistakes with curiosity and a smile, these techniques help you stay present, confident, and connected with your horse. Discover how staying in the moment — not chasing perfection — can completely transform the way you ride and feel in the saddle.
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
🧠Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training: Starts12th January. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards) https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
🎓 NLP Trainers Training: 1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
📕 Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook: https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref

Set Your Ride Up for Success: Pre-Ride Mindset Hacks Part 2

What if the way you prepare your mind in the minutes before you ride could transform the entire experience in the saddle? In this episode, Tracey Cole shares simple but powerful mindset techniques you can use on the day of your ride — even while you’re tacking up. Discover how strategic breathing, grounding methods, and mental rehearsal can shift you from anxious or overthinking into calm, connected, and confident. If you’ve ever wished those first few moments of a ride felt easier, clearer, or more enjoyable, this episode gives you the tools to make it happen. Tune in and find out how a few subtle mindset shifts can set the emotional tone for your whole ride.
 
👉 Contact me 
Info@traceycolenlp.com
www.traceycolenlp.com
 
👉Let's be social!
www.facebook.com/traceycolenlp.com
www.instagram.com/traceycolenlp.com
 
🧠Next NLP Practitioner and NLP Coach Training: Starts12th January. Every Monday 1:30-5pm UK time. No prior learning needed. Recordings made available. NLP only for Practitioner and 5 certifications for the NLP Coach (all internationally recognised, accredited and certified by professsional boards) https://traceycolenlp.com/product/empowered-equestrian-coach/
 
🎓 NLP Trainers Training: 1:1 Start any time. Pre-requisite: Master NLP Practitioner https://traceycolenlp.com/nlp-trainers-training-curious-to-know-more/
 
📕 Confident Rider Mindset Book/ Audiobook: https://tinyurl.com/ypjunref