Unlocking peak performance often comes down to mastering your mental game, yet understanding where to begin on that journey can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Natalie Hummel joins Jessa to break down the essential components of self-mastery, from nervous system regulation and ego work to emotional mastery, and explains how these areas directly impact riders in and out of the saddle. She shares the roadmap for ongoing personal growth, describes what separates high performers, and offers actionable practices for listeners ready to step into their full potential. 

Episode Highlights: 

13:00: How this work directly applies to riding and performance 

33:45: Common roadblocks riders face during this process, and how to work through them 

51:20: Personality types that tend to excel with this work, and which ones may find it more challenging 

53:40: Practical advice for riders who want to start doing this type of work   

Meet the Expert, Natalie Hummel 

Natalie Hummel is a transformational life coach who helps equestrians and other athletes overcome mental and emotional barriers to elevate their competitive performance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Wellness from the University of Louisville, and she has served as head research assistant in the learning and performance lab during her time there. She has also earned a Wellcoaches certification and Mastery Coach certification, bringing evidence-based strategies and real-world perspective to her coaching work. 

If you’d like to learn more about Natalie Hummel’s Limitless Academy, visit the link below. https://nataliehummelcoaching.com/limitless/ 

Equestrian Mastermind Season 3, Episode 1 drops January 22. Find it in the In Stride feed and follow the show so you don’t miss new episodes. 

Brought to you by Ride iQ 

This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.

Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.

If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com. 

Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.