Resilient Reiner

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Podcast by Nicole Burnett

Resilient Reiner

The Resilient Reiner with Nicole Burnett is your go-to podcast dedicated to mental performance coaching for reiners and western riders. Join us as we explore the power of the mind and how it can elevate your performance to new heights. Each episode uncovers invaluable strategies, techniques, and mindset shifts to help you overcome mental barriers, boost confidence, and achieve peak performance in the saddle. From managing competition nerves to cultivating focus and resilience, our podcast provides actionable insights and real-life stories that inspire and empower riders at all levels. Whether you're a passionate amateur, rookie reiner, or a seasoned competitor, The Resilient Reiner is your go-to resource for sharpening your mental edge and unlocking your equestrian potential & transforming your riding journey. Tune in, harness the power of your mind, and ride towards excellence.
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Latest episodes

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17 December 2024

#142 Holiday Mindset Hacks for Riders: Lessons from The Grinch

It’s the holiday season, and while the world is lighting up with joy, you might find yourself battling that pesky voice of doubt and negativity—your own Inner Grinch. 

Sound familiar? 

This episode is all about tackling those sneaky thoughts that hold you back in the saddle and replacing them with confidence-boosting mindset shifts. 

Just like The Grinch taught us, the way you talk to yourself shapes how you feel and what you’re capable of achieving. In this episode, I’m taking you on a holiday-inspired journey to flip that inner dialogue, grow your riding confidence three sizes bigger, and set yourself up for success as we head into the new year. Let’s dive in!

If this episode spoke to you, I’d love to hear about it! Share your favorite takeaway by tagging me on Instagram @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner. Let your community in on the fun by sharing this episode with them, too. Oh, and don’t forget—leaving a review on iTunes not only makes my day, but it also helps other riders find this podcast and start their own confidence-building journey.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

  • How to identify your “Inner Grinch” and its sneaky impact on your mindset.
  • Simple strategies to reframe negative self-talk into empowering beliefs.
  • How focusing on small wins builds lasting confidence.
  • The mindset tools to create calm and clarity before heading into the arena.
  • Why joy and abundance are the ultimate tools for becoming a better rider.

Questions I Answer:

  • What is the Inner Grinch, and why is it so good at stealing confidence?
  • How can I stop replaying mistakes and doubting myself?
  • What are the best ways to shift from frustration to growth?
  • How do I build long-term confidence both in and out of the saddle?

Links & Resources

Friend, you have everything it takes to show up as the rider you want to be. Let’s tackle that Inner Grinch together and unlock your full potential. 

I can’t wait to see how you grow!

Nicole

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10 December 2024

#141 I Watched 440 Entries at the NRHA Futurity. Here’s What I Learned

Today, I’m spilling the beans on what really separates the top dogs from the rest at the NRHA Futurity, where I soaked in 440 entries worth of raw talent and razor-sharp precision. 

This episode isn’t just a rundown; it’s a treasure trove of hard-earned lessons from the arena floor. Whether you’re training for your next big show or just aiming to sync better with your horse, these insights are going to challenge what you thought you knew about competing at the top. 

So, let’s dive into the real grind behind the glamour and see what it truly takes to shine in the reining world.

Fired up by what you heard today? Spread the word! Tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram to share how this episode has shifted your approach or helped up your game. I’m eager to hear your takeaways! 

Also, don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes—it’s a huge boost for helping others find us and join the conversation. Let’s get this wisdom out there and lift up the whole riding community!

In This Episode You Will Learn:

  • How meticulous practice at home translates into flawless execution in the arena.
  • The importance of self-belief and mental preparation long before you enter the show pen.
  • Why a quick recovery is more impactful than a perfect run and how to cultivate this resilience.
  • The undeniable bond between horse and rider that makes all the difference in performance.
  • How every rider's unique journey contributes to their performance and what we can learn from them.

Questions I Answer:

  • What really makes the difference in a rider’s performance at high-stakes competitions?
  • How can you build confidence that withstands the pressures of competition?
  • What’s the best way to handle mistakes during a performance?
  • How important is your connection with your horse in achieving competition success?
  • How does understanding each rider’s background help us improve our own riding?

Links/Resources:

Tune in, and let’s redefine what it means to be a champion in the world of reining. Every lesson, every challenge, every victory—let’s make it count together!

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03 December 2024

#140 What Top Riders at the AQHA World Show Do Differently to Prepare

You know those riders who always seem to be in a league of their own at every show? It’s not magic; it’s meticulous preparation. 

Today, we’re cracking open the playbook on what top competitors do differently to prepare for shows. This episode is all about bridging the Preparation Gap—the often overlooked difference between just participating and truly excelling. We’re diving deep into both the intentional actions and the mental strategies that can set you apart from the pack.

Did today's episode give you some new ideas for your show prep? I’d love to see how you put these strategies to work! Share your prep stories by tagging @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram. Enjoyed the episode? Help spread the word by leaving a review on iTunes—your insights can help others step up their game too!

In This Episode You Will Learn:

  • The components of intentional preparation that differentiate successful riders.
  • Common traps in preparation and strategies to avoid them.
  • Practical tips for creating a real-show atmosphere in training.
  • Essential mental skills for staying calm and adaptable in the show pen.
  • How reflection after practice sessions can dramatically improve your performance.

Questions I Answer:

  • What is the Preparation Gap?
  • What does intentional preparation involve beyond regular training?
  • How can riders effectively adapt to surprises during competitions?
  • What mental preparation techniques can you apply to ensure peak performance?
  • How should riders use reflection to enhance their skills and strategies?

Links/Resources:

This episode is packed with actionable advice designed to close the gap between routine practice and standout performance. Whether you’re competing at local levels or aiming for major titles, the strategies we discuss today are key to developing confidence and competence in the arena. Let's saddle up and get ready to redefine what success looks like for you!

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26 November 2024

#139 What Really Wins World Championships? Lessons from the AQHA World Show

Have you ever wondered what truly separates champions from the rest in the show pen?

It’s not always flawless preparation or the hours spent perfecting every maneuver. Often, it’s the ability to recover when things don’t go as planned.

In this episode of The Resilient Reiner Podcast, we’re diving deep into lessons from the 2024 AQHA World Show, including a standout performance that demonstrates how mental toughness, confidence, and adaptability can turn setbacks into victory.

Whether you’ve been in the show pen or just dream of competing at that level, this episode is packed with insights to help you step up your game—both in and out of the saddle.

If this episode resonates with you or someone in your circle, tag us on Instagram @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner to share your thoughts and favorite takeaways! I’d love to hear how this inspires your rides. And don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes—it helps others find the show and join our incredible community.

In This Episode You Will Learn:

  • Why preparation alone isn’t enough to win big.
  • How top riders recover after making mistakes in high-pressure situations.
  • The key role mental resilience plays in competition success.
  • Three simple strategies you can use at home to practice performing under pressure.

Questions I Answer:

  • What separates World Champions from other competitors?
  • How can riders mentally reset after mistakes during a ride?
  • What are practical ways to prepare for the unexpected in the show pen?
  • How can you build mental resilience to stay confident under pressure?

Links/Resources:

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19 November 2024

#138 Stop Talking Yourself Out of Success

Have you ever noticed how the way you talk to yourself can make or break your ride? 

That inner voice can be your biggest cheerleader or your toughest critic. Too often, it’s the latter. 

But here’s the truth: the story you tell yourself before you ride directly shapes how you perform.

In this episode, we’re uncovering how to turn self-doubt into self-belief. Whether you’ve been stuck replaying mistakes or battling nerves before stepping into the arena, you’ll learn practical strategies to rewire your mindset and show up as the confident rider you’re meant to be.

 

If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode, be sure to tag us @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram and share this episode with your community! I am curious to hear all about your experience. Also, be sure to leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the show.

In This Episode You Will Learn:

  • Why your self-talk directly impacts your performance and confidence in the saddle.  
  • How negative thoughts create a cycle of doubt and hold you back from real progress.  
  • If your brain believes everything you tell it.  
  • 3 techniques to shift your inner dialogue  
  • How to create a mindset that lifts you up and helps you ride like a pro.

Questions I Answer:

  • What is self-talk, and why does it matter so much for riders?  
  • How do negative thoughts affect your performance and your horse?  
  • How can you start changing the way you talk to yourself?  
  • What are practical ways to replace negative loops with positive reinforcement?

Links/Resources:

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12 November 2024

#137 5 Things Every Reiner Needs To Hear

This is a real talk, from one rider to another, about leaving behind what doesn’t serve you!

Imagine this: you’re riding into the arena, it’s just you and your horse, and nothing else matters. 

Not the fancy bit, not the pedigree, not even the trainer’s advice ringing in your ear. What really counts is your confidence and trust in yourself and your horse to get the job done. 

In today’s episode, we’re talking about five hard-hitting truths every rider needs to know to bring their best to every ride. 

These aren’t just the usual tips—they’re the real deal about what separates good riders from great ones. Let’s get into it, and prepare to shift your mindset, build real confidence, and leave behind what’s holding you back.

If you or someone you know finds this episode helpful, tag me at @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram, and share it with your community! I’m excited to hear your thoughts and stories about how these tips impact your rides. And don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes—your support helps other riders find these insights, too.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

  • How to focus on what truly impacts your ride, like mental resilience and trust in your abilities, instead of getting distracted by tools or pedigree.
  • The importance of self-confidence over outside guidance—especially when it’s time to perform.
  • Why letting go of the “perfect conditions” mentality can change the way you show up and ride.
  • Practical ways to ground yourself and lead your horse with confidence, especially in high-stress moments.
  • How to develop a true partnership with your horse that thrives on mutual trust and confidence.

Questions I Answer:

  • What role do tools, such as bits, and horse pedigree actually play in your riding success?
  • How can riders shift focus away from external factors like equipment or advice and tune into their own abilities?
  • Why is tuning out your trainer’s voice (literally and figuratively) key to finding your own riding rhythm?
  • How can you strengthen your confidence to make your horse feel secure and focused?
  • What simple steps can you take to build trust with your horse before your next ride?

Links/Resources:

 

Happy Trails,

Nicole

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