A Reitmeister of rare calibre, Jan Bemelmans bridges the timeless wisdom of classical training with the demands of modern sport. From guiding national teams to Olympic medals to cultivating harmony between horse and rider, Jan’s lifelong devotion to the art of dressage has inspired generations.

In this conversation, we explore the lessons behind his remarkable journey — the meaning of true connection, the evolution of the sport, and what it really takes to bring out the best in both horse and human. 

Resources:
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Few lives could rival the adventure and artistry of Susie Whitcombe’s. A painter, a rider, a pilot, a race car driver, a wife and mother — and always, an equestrian at heart.Through every chapter of her life, horses have been her constant presence — grounding her, inspiring her, and reflecting the spirit that moves through her art.

In this conversation, we explore how Susie’s love of horses has shaped her way of seeing the world — how the courage, freedom, and sensitivity of the horse mirror her own creative journey. Her paintings are not just depictions, but living expressions of experience, connection, and truth.It’s a story of adventure and artistry, of devotion and daring — and of a woman who has followed the horse as her guiding muse through every landscape of her life. 

Resources:
Connect with Susie Whitcombe: https://www.instagram.com/whitcombesusie 
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

From the green pastures of New Zealand to the great arenas of Europe, Bruce Goodin’s journey is one of quiet strength, enduring passion, and timeless horsemanship. A five-time Olympian now based in Sweden, Bruce has dedicated his life to the art of showjumping guided by countless horses, each one a teacher deepening his understanding of balance, respect, and the lifelong equestrian journey.

Through triumphs and trials, including serious injury, he’s shown what true resilience looks like — returning to the saddle again and again with calm focus and unwavering love for the horse. In this conversation, we explore not only the great moments of sport but the subtler lessons, the ones that live between the fences, in the feel, and in the quiet dialogue that emerges when we learn to listen.

Resources:
Connect with Bruce Goodin: https://www.instagram.com/brucegoodinshowjumper
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Few voices in the equestrian world carry such warmth and wisdom as Roger Fitzhardinge. Judge, teacher, writer, and storyteller, Roger has devoted his life to the horse and to the riders who seek connection with them.

As he once wrote, “The horse must learn to trust the rider’s aids, to understand the language of balance and lightness, and the rider must learn patience enough to let that language grow.” These words capture the spirit of his work — reminding us that horsemanship is as much about heart as it is about skill.

Resources:
Connect with Roger Fitzhardinge: https://www.facebook.com/roger.fitzhardinge.1/
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Few riders in the world embody quiet mastery the way Steffen Peters does. A six-time Olympian and one of the most respected dressage riders of our time, Steffen is celebrated not only for his extraordinary achievements in the arena, but for the artistry and soul he brings to every partnership.

In this conversation, we explore the inner landscape of performance — how he balances the pressures of competition with the work of staying centred, what his horses have taught him about presence and resilience, and the wisdom that comes from a lifetime dedicated to the equestrian path.It’s a conversation about medals and moments, yes — but above all, about what it truly means to connect with a horse.

Resources:
Connect with Steffen Peters: https://www.instagram.com/speters_dressage
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

There are riders who train horses, and then there are riders who dance with them. Rafael Soto is one of the great classical masters of our time—a man whose riding doesn’t just follow the principles, but brings them to life with lightness, presence, and soul. From the traditions of the Spanish Riding School in Jerez to the international stage, Rafael’s work has touched the hearts of riders and audiences around the world—not only for its technical brilliance, but for the joy and harmony it awakens.

To watch him ride is to witness art in motion. To speak with him is to be reminded that the horse is not just an athlete, but a partner, a mirror, and a friend. In this conversation, we begin to explore the deeper language of classical riding—where timing becomes feel, movements become music, and every gesture carries meaning. 

Resources:
Connect with Rafael Soto: https://www.instagram.com/rafaelsotodressage 
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Some riders take a traditional path into dressage. But Brett Parbery’s story begins somewhere different—in the dust and rhythm of the rodeo arena. That early foundation gave him more than just balance in the saddle—it gave him feel, timing, and a connection that runs deeper than technique. Today, Brett is known as one of Australia’s most accomplished dressage riders, with a reputation not only for his natural feel but also for his ability to translate that feel into words. Through his Performance Riders program, he’s created systems that help others understand and apply the principles of high-level dressage in their own riding.

In this conversation, we explore the spaces between instinct and refinement, the connection of body and mind, and what it truly means to become one with the horse—not just through training, but through transformation.

Resources:
Contact Brett Parbery: [email protected]
Website:www.performanceriders.comm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/performance.riders
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Some riders are remembered for their results. Others—like Mary Hanna—are remembered for their legacy. With a career spanning more than three decades and six Olympic Games, Mary’s presence in the equestrian world is not just about achievement—it’s about devotion. Devotion to the horse, to the craft, and to the lifelong pursuit of harmony.

In this opening conversation, Mary shares her journey of resilience through change, her respect for the classical roots of riding, and the quiet steadiness that has carried her through triumphs and challenges alike. Together, we reflect not only on the art of riding but also on what it means to evolve with grace, stay the course, and remain deeply connected to the horse through every season of life.

Resources:
Contact Mary Hanna: [email protected]
Learn more about Mary: www.statenepark.com
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rramossport
Follow along on the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast
Music produced by Melissa Parris

Welcome to The Equestrian’s Inner Life.

This is a space for riders, coaches, artists, and thought leaders to explore the art and soul of horses — beyond technique, into presence, creativity, and the deeper connection we share with them. 

Each episode unfolds through stories lived and shared, weaving together wisdom from extraordinary equestrians around the world. 

Follow now to join the journey: https://www.pernillehogg.com/podcast