In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George sits down with Evie, the founder of Empower Change UK, who is on a mission to address body image issues and eating disorders within the equestrian industry. They discuss the significant impact of social media on young adults and the importance of fostering open conversations about these stigmatized topics. Evie shares her personal journey, from her struggles with body image during her time at equine college to her efforts in creating a supportive community through Empower Change. The episode also explores the role of role models in shaping perceptions of body image, the implications of the 20% weight rule in equestrian sports, and the need for balanced approaches to health and wellness. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the importance of mental health in the equestrian world.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Empower Change UK: This organization aims to raise awareness about eating disorders and body image issues within the equine industry, providing a platform for open discussions and support for young adults.

2. Impact of Social Media: Social media can significantly influence body image perceptions, leading to anxiety around food and unhealthy comparisons. It's important to curate social media feeds to include positive and supportive content.

3. Role of Education: Educational institutions play a crucial role in addressing body image issues. Implementing supportive measures, such as private weighing systems for students, can help reduce anxiety and stigma around weight.

4. Balanced Approach to Health: Emphasizing strength and overall health rather than focusing solely on weight is essential. A balanced diet and mental well-being are critical for both physical performance and emotional health.

5. Seeking Help: Individuals struggling with eating disorders should seek support from trusted peers, therapists, or organizations like BEAT Eating Disorders UK. Finding a safe community and professional help can be vital in the recovery process.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of Let's Talk Horse Business, host George sits down with professional dressage rider and horse sales expert Kirsten Maine. Kirsten shares her journey from a young equestrian to an international dressage competitor and successful business owner. She provides insight into the dressage industry, discusses her unique approach to horse sales and training, and sheds light on the challenges and rewards of managing a horse business. A significant focus of the conversation revolves around the realities of running a livery, how to structure it for sustainability, and why traditional livery models often struggle financially. Whether you’re an aspiring dressage rider, a horse owner, or someone interested in equestrian business strategies, this episode offers invaluable knowledge and practical advice.

Topics Discussed:

• Kirsten’s background: Her early start in dressage and transition to a professional career.

• Running a successful horse sales and training operation.

• The structure of Kirsten’s business: separating livery, training, and sales.

• The financial and logistical challenges of running a livery yard.

• How Kirsten collaborates with her livery manager, Joe, to create a sustainable system.

• Differences in livery costs based on location and facilities.

• Managing livery clients' expectations and maintaining profitability.

• The state of the UK dressage industry and differences between the UK and European markets

• Advice for young riders and those looking to enter the industry.

Key Quotes:

• “Every horse is for sale, no matter whether I like to keep them or not. At the end of the day, money is money and a horse is a horse.”

• “Don't try and please everybody. It doesn't work. You can put yourself out there and try and make everybody happy, but you'll only end up causing yourself loads of misery.”

• “People have to be realistic about what things cost. The price of bedding, feed, and hay keeps going up, and we have to charge accordingly.”

• “Running a livery alone isn’t profitable. That’s why I separate it from my sales and training business to ensure everything remains financially viable.”

• “You need to set boundaries in your livery business—don’t let clients dictate prices based on what the yard down the road is charging. Know your worth.”

• “Reputation is everything in this industry. It can be built over years but ruined in an instant.”

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

https://www.tiktok.com/@hustle_with_george

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George has a small conversation with Evie, the founder of Empower Change UK, they delve into the critical issues surrounding body image and disordered eating within the equestrian community. Evie shares her journey since their initial meeting at the London International event, highlighting her passion for helping young adults navigate the challenges posed by social media and societal expectations. The conversation explores the growth of Empower Change, including strategies for building a sustainable business model to reach more individuals in need of support. Listeners will gain insights into Evie's experiences with pitching for funding, engaging with universities, and the importance of sharing her story to resonate with others. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of community and the steps necessary to foster positive change in the equine industry.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Empower Change's Mission: Empower Change UK focuses on addressing body image issues and disordered eating within the equine industry, aiming to support young adults in universities and colleges.

2. Growth Strategy: The importance of viewing Empower Change as a business rather than just an emotional movement was emphasized. This perspective helps in creating a sustainable model that can cover operational costs and expand outreach.

3. Social Media Engagement: Building a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram is crucial for reaching a wider audience. Engaging with the community and utilizing effective strategies, such as targeted hashtags, can enhance visibility.

4. Funding Opportunities: Participation in competitions like the Think Big Pitch at the university provides opportunities for funding and mentorship, which can help in developing the organization further.

5. Confidence Building: Taking steps to share personal stories and experiences, such as pitching at events and engaging with audiences, is essential for building confidence and connecting with others who may benefit from the initiative.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/empowerchangeuk?igsh=Y2NyNWthNTVibjl6  

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18fJqHs5Se/?mibextid=wwXIfr - Join the Community

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of Let's Talk Horse Business, we sit down with Emily, an international dressage rider who has transitioned from riding ponies to training her own horses at a competitive level. Emily shares her journey in the equestrian world, discussing her experiences with various riding disciplines, her passion for teaching, and the challenges of running a horse business. She offers valuable insights into managing a busy schedule, the importance of organization, and the significance of adapting training methods to suit individual horses. Emily also emphasizes the need for transparency in the equestrian industry and the benefits of utilizing social media for business growth. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and practical tips for aspiring riders and equestrian entrepreneurs alike.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Transitioning to Business: The journey from being a rider to running a business can stem from unexpected circumstances, such as injury. Starting small, like teaching on the side, can help build confidence and clientele before fully committing to a business.

2. Utilizing Social Media: Facebook is highlighted as a valuable tool for attracting clients, especially through local groups and recommendations. Engaging with the community online can lead to increased visibility and opportunities for clinics and lessons.

3. Client Management: It's important to be selective with clients. Keeping clients who are consistently reliable and respectful of your time can lead to a more sustainable and enjoyable teaching experience.

4. Emphasizing Equine Welfare: A focus on modern equine welfare practices, supported by scientific evidence, is essential. Understanding the balance between traditional methods and contemporary research can enhance horse management and training.

5. Mindset and Resilience: Building confidence in teaching and riding comes with experience. Embracing challenges, learning from them, and maintaining a positive mindset are crucial for growth in both riding and business.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George sits down with Peter from Granite Lens Media, an equestrian videographer and photographer. Peter shares his inspiring journey from working as a geohazard engineer to launching his own business in the equestrian space. He discusses the challenges and rewards of creating content for influencers, brands, and events, emphasizing the importance of building a core client base. The conversation delves into the realities of running a business, the impact of social media on the equestrian industry, and the significance of valuing one's work. Peter also reflects on his experiences filming in South Africa and Botswana, highlighting the unique opportunities that come with being part of the equestrian community. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to navigate the world of equestrian content creation and business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embrace Opportunities: Taking advantage of opportunities, even if they seem risky, can lead to significant career changes and personal growth. The journey from a stable job to pursuing a passion can be rewarding, especially when supported by a network.

2. Value Your Work: Transitioning from doing work as a favor to charging for services can be challenging. It's important to establish a pricing structure that reflects the value of your time and skills, while also being open to learning and adjusting as you gain experience.

3. Quality Content Matters: In the competitive world of videography and photography, producing high-quality content is essential. This includes not only the visuals but also the sound quality, which can significantly impact the viewer's experience.

4. Community Over Competition: Building relationships with other professionals in the industry can lead to collaboration and mutual support. Sharing knowledge and respecting each other's client bases fosters a positive environment, even in a competitive field.

5. Social Media's Dual Nature: While social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing work and connecting with audiences, it also comes with challenges, such as potential negativity and misrepresentation. It's crucial to navigate these platforms thoughtfully, ensuring that the content shared reflects the true nature of the work and the industry.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

Granite Lens Media

https://granitelensmedia.com/

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

Over the years, George has launched and managed multiple ventures, gaining deep insights into business strategy, scaling operations, and achieving sustainable growth. Mentored by industry experts, he’s developed a well-rounded approach to entrepreneurship that he now shares with others.

In this episode of "Let's Talk Horse Business," George sits down with Sophie, the Managing Director of Cavago, she discusses the company's mission to revolutionise the equestrian industry by transitioning it from an industrial to a digital era. With a background in the equestrian sector and a passion for horses, Sophie shares insights into Cavago's innovative platform that connects equestrian businesses with customers, making it easier to book experiences online. She highlights the challenges faced by the industry, such as discoverability and administrative burdens, and explains how Cavago addresses these issues through its user-friendly technology. The conversation also touches on the success of their recent participation in the London International event, where they engaged with attendees through interactive experiences, ultimately aiming to enhance accessibility and growth within the equestrian community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Digital Transformation in Equestrian Industry: Cavago aims to transition the equestrian industry from an industrial model to a digital one, addressing the challenges of discoverability and accessibility for equestrian services.

2. Unique Business Model: Cavago operates on a commission-based model rather than charging sign-up or monthly fees, making it financially accessible for equestrian businesses to utilize their platform.

3. Enhanced Customer Experience: The platform allows customers to easily book and pay for equestrian services online, streamlining the process and reducing the administrative burden on service providers.

4. Focus on Community and Collaboration: Cavago encourages equestrian businesses to work together rather than compete, fostering a community that can collectively enhance customer access to equestrian activities.

5. Continuous Improvement and Adaptation: The technology is designed to evolve based on user feedback, with features like proposal of new time slots and rescheduling capabilities that cater to the unique needs of equestrian service providers.

Socials

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mycavago/ 

https://www.instagram.com/my_cavago

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George welcomes Charlotte Franke, the founder of Franke Racewear, an international racewear brand. Charlotte shares her inspiring journey from being an apprentice jockey in Germany to establishing her own successful business in the UK. She discusses the challenges she faced in the racing industry, the importance of networking, and the lessons learned along the way. Charlotte emphasises the significance of trusting one's instincts, the hard work required to maintain a business, and the value of having a supportive community. Listeners will gain insights into the niche racewear market, the process of scaling a business internationally, and the mindset needed to thrive in the equestrian world.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embrace Change and Trust Your Instincts: Taking risks and trusting your gut can lead to significant growth and opportunities. The decision to invest in your business can yield substantial returns, as demonstrated by a 40% increase in turnover after a bold financial commitment.

2. Importance of Networking and Support: Building a strong network and having supportive individuals can be crucial for success. A brief meeting with a photographer led to the creation of a successful clothing brand, highlighting the impact of mentorship and collaboration.

3. Understanding the Challenges of Entrepreneurship: Starting a business requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn. Many new brands struggle to maintain momentum due to the complexities of running a business, including marketing, customer engagement, and product management.

4. Niche Markets Can Be Beneficial: Focusing on a specific niche, such as racewear for jockeys and yard staff, can help establish a brand identity and build a loyal customer base. This approach allows for personalized customer interactions and a deeper understanding of market needs.

5. Personal Growth Through Adversity: Experiences in the racing industry, including challenges faced as a groom, contribute to personal development. Overcoming obstacles and learning from failures can lead to resilience and a stronger mindset, essential for navigating the ups and downs of business.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George sits down with Rhiannon, an equestrian business specialist, to explore the intricacies of starting and marketing a successful equestrian business. Rhiannon shares her journey from managing strip clubs to becoming a consultant, emphasising the importance of understanding customer needs and differentiating one's brand in a competitive market. The conversation delves into practical advice for aspiring business owners, including the significance of market research, the value of personal branding, and the necessity of taking action despite self-doubt. Rhiannon also highlights the importance of positioning a business to solve specific problems for customers, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their unique qualities and take bold steps toward their entrepreneurial goals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Identify Your Unique Value Proposition: When starting a business, it's crucial to determine what makes your offering different from competitors. This could be through specialized services, unique packages, or a strong personal brand that resonates with your target audience.

2. Conduct Thorough Market Research: Before launching a business, it's essential to understand the market landscape. This includes analyzing competitors, identifying target demographics, and understanding customer pain points to effectively position your business.

3. Emphasize Benefits Over Features: In marketing, focus on how your product or service solves a problem for the customer rather than just listing its features. This approach helps potential clients see the value in what you offer.

4. Take Action Despite Doubts: Confidence often holds people back from pursuing their business ideas. It's important to challenge negative beliefs and take action, even if it means being imperfect at first. Growth comes from experience and learning through doing.

5. Create a Comprehensive Business Plan: Writing down a business plan that includes potential challenges and strategies to mitigate them increases the likelihood of success. A well-structured plan serves as a roadmap for your business journey.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of "Let's Talk Horse Business," George interviews Stephen, a remarkable entrepreneur who has transformed his passion for horses into a thriving livery business in just three years. From humble beginnings with his own horses, Stephen shares his journey of building multiple livery yards and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses the importance of hard work, passion, and the right partnerships in achieving success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into managing a livery business, the significance of team dynamics, and strategies for navigating the industry's challenges, including pricing and staff retention. Stephen emphasises the need for structure and support within the equestrian community, encouraging aspiring business owners to believe in themselves and seize opportunities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Embrace Opportunities: The journey into the livery business began during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of seizing opportunities even in challenging times. Instead of succumbing to negativity, it's crucial to recognize potential and take action.

2. Passion and Mental Health: Maintaining passion for the work is essential. If the love for the business diminishes, it may be time to reassess involvement. Prioritizing mental health and ensuring a positive work environment is key to long-term success.

3. Team Structure and Support: Building a strong team is vital for scaling a livery business. Providing clear roles, opportunities for training, and a supportive environment can help retain staff and improve overall morale. It's important to treat team members as valuable contributors rather than just labor.

4. Profitability and Investment: Profit is necessary for sustainability, but it should be reinvested into the business to improve facilities and services. Understanding the financial aspects and having a clear pricing strategy can help ensure the business remains viable.

5. Continuous Learning and Networking: Knowledge is power in the equestrian industry. Engaging with others, asking questions, and being open to learning can lead to new ideas and improvements. Networking with peers can provide valuable insights and support for growth.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

www.tiktok.com/@georgebetson

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George delves into the critical topic of the livery yard business, highlighting the challenges faced by livery yard owners in today's economic climate. Drawing on insights from a post shared by Ibby McPherson and the Tampna Eventing Team, George emphasises the importance of recognising horses as luxury items that require appropriate care and investment. He discusses the rising costs associated with running a livery yard, including hay, feed, labor, and insurance, and stresses the need for transparent communication and fair pricing in the industry. George also shares his top 10 steps for livery businesses to raise their prices effectively while maintaining strong relationships with clients. This episode aims to raise awareness about the value of livery services and encourages listeners to appreciate the hard work that goes into horse care.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Importance of Setting Goals and Vision: Many livery yard businesses struggle because they operate without clear goals and a vision, often treating their business like a hobby rather than a viable enterprise.

2. Rising Costs in the Equestrian Industry: The costs associated with running a livery yard, including hay, straw, feed, labor, and insurance, have been increasing significantly. This makes it essential for livery yard owners to charge appropriately for their services.

3. Value of Horse Care: Horses are considered a luxury, and owners should be prepared to pay for the care and services that come with them. The podcast emphasizes that livery yard owners should not subsidize horse care at the expense of their own financial viability.

4. Transparent Communication and Gradual Price Increases: When raising prices, it's crucial to communicate transparently with clients about the reasons for the increase and to implement gradual changes rather than sudden hikes.

5. Building Relationships and Offering Value: Establishing strong relationships with clients and highlighting the unique value and services provided by the livery yard can help justify pricing and maintain client loyalty.

Socials

https://www.instagram.com/gbetson/

https://www.tiktok.com/@hustle_with_george

About the Host

George Betson is a seasoned business entrepreneur with over a decade of experience, driven by a passion for both strategic business growth and the equine world. Starting his journey as a business graduate, George worked alongside his late father to run the family business, learning firsthand the value of hard work, resilience, and the essentials of building a successful enterprise.

Over the years, George has launched and managed multiple ventures, gaining deep insights into business strategy, scaling operations, and achieving sustainable growth. Mentored by industry experts, he’s developed a well-rounded approach to entrepreneurship that he now shares with others.

George’s love for horses began at age 15 and has since become a significant part of his life and career. As the director of Fonture Transport, an equine horse transport business, he has combined his business acumen with his equestrian passion. His commitment to the equine industry also fuels his personal goals, as he plans to return to competing in dressage next year.

Since July 2023, George has embarked on a journey of personal transformation, emphasizing personal development and aligning his values with his business ventures. He also runs his own property businesses, managing projects and partnering with investors to create opportunities that deliver safe and rewarding returns.

Now, George is excited to bring his expertise and passion to Let’s Talk Horse Business, a podcast designed to inspire and empower equestrian entrepreneurs. Through engaging conversations, he shares insights, strategies, and lessons learned from years of experience, helping others excel in both business and the equestrian world.