Horse Welfare and Training: Best Practices for a Compassionate Approach
George sits with Katy Holder-Vale as they dive into the intricacies of the horse breeding industry, drawing on Katy's extensive 40-year experience. They discuss her journey from starting at Wychham House Stud to leading the Hanoverian Society in England. The conversation touches on the challenges of breeding, the importance of adapting to market demands, and the evolving landscape of horse welfare. Katie emphasizes the significance of networking, the role of apprenticeships, and the need for responsible horse ownership. They also explore the impact of social media on public perception and the necessity of showcasing the positive aspects of horse care and training. With insights into practical breeding practices and the emotional connections between horses and humans, this episode offers valuable advice for newcomers to the industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Adaptability in Business: The horse breeding and training industry requires flexibility to respond to market demands. Adjusting between breeding and offering livery services based on market conditions is crucial for sustainability. Networking and Community Engagement: Building connections within the local equestrian community through involvement in clubs, shows, and committees can lead to business opportunities and support. Importance of Welfare and Best Practices: The industry is increasingly focused on horse welfare, with initiatives aimed at promoting best breeding practices. Understanding the science behind these practices can enhance the care and training of horses. Utilizing Technology and Social Media: Leveraging social media effectively can help promote the positive aspects of horse care and training, countering negative perceptions and showcasing the good work being done in the industry. Commitment to Education and Training: Continuous learning and adapting training methods based on the horse's behavior and mental state are essential. Empathy and understanding the individual needs of each horse can lead to better training outcomes and stronger horse-human relationships. 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.
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54:03
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: The Top 3 Mistakes Equestrian Businesses Make
In this episode of the Let's Talk Horse Business podcast, George dives into the three biggest mistakes equestrian businesses commonly make and offers practical advice on how to avoid them. He emphasises the importance of developing a solid pricing strategy, highlighting the need to understand competitors and differentiate offerings to ensure profitability. George also critiques the over-reliance on word-of-mouth marketing, urging listeners to embrace digital platforms and social media to expand their reach. Finally, he addresses the critical issue of valuing time and preventing burnout, encouraging business owners to consider building a supportive team as they scale. Tune in for valuable insights that can help equestrian entrepreneurs thrive in a rapidly changing industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Poor Pricing Strategies: Many equestrian businesses fail to establish effective pricing strategies before launching. It's crucial to research competitors and understand market dynamics to set appropriate prices that reflect the value of the services offered. Overreliance on Word of Mouth: While word of mouth can be beneficial, it should not be the sole marketing strategy. Embracing digital marketing, social media, and online platforms can significantly enhance visibility and attract new clients. Valuing Time and Avoiding Burnout: Business owners often undervalue their time, leading to burnout. It's essential to price services adequately to reflect the true value of time spent and to consider building a team to share the workload. Adopting Digital Solutions: The equestrian industry is lagging in adopting digital tools and platforms. Utilizing online booking systems and social media can streamline operations and improve customer engagement. Mindset Shift: Business owners need to reframe their mindset from working for others to working for themselves. Recognizing the importance of their time and contributions is vital for long-term success and fulfillment in their business endeavors. 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.
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21:35
Exciting Developments at Fonture Transport: New Vehicles and Expansion Plans
George provides an exciting update on Fonture Transport, their horse transport business. As they approach the end of the first quarter, the host shares plans for expansion, including a new hire and transport site in Lincolnshire and the addition of a new lorry to their fleet in Newmarket. Emphasizing the importance of setting a clear vision and smart goals, the host encourages listeners to reflect on their own business aspirations as they move into the second quarter. With a focus on actionable steps and sustainable growth, this episode aims to inspire equestrian entrepreneurs to define their goals and take meaningful strides towards achieving them. KEY TAKEAWAYS Expansion of Business: Fonture Transport is expanding its operations by opening a new hire and transport site in Lincolnshire and acquiring a new lorry to support the existing fleet in Newmarket. Importance of Vision and Goals: Setting a clear vision and smart goals is crucial for business growth. Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART) goals help in maintaining focus and direction. Challenges in the Equestrian Business: Running a livery or equestrian business can be challenging, and many operators get caught up in day-to-day tasks, losing sight of long-term goals and strategies. Market Awareness: Understanding the market and breeding the right type of horses is essential for business success, as some horses sell more easily and at better prices than others. Encouragement for Others: There is an open invitation for listeners to reach out for support or guidance in their own business endeavors, emphasizing a community approach to growth and success in the equestrian industry. 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.
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5:40
The Equestrian Dilemma: Balancing Animal Welfare and Training Techniques
George Betson dives into the recent proposal by the Dutch House of Representatives to ban certain training aids in the equestrian world, sparked by the Party for Animals. While acknowledging the importance of animal welfare, George argues that banning tools like spurs and whips may not address the root of the problem, which lies in the misuse of these implements by individuals rather than the tools themselves. He emphasizes the need for accountability among equestrians and advocates for education to help the public understand the responsible use of training aids. The episode calls for a collective effort within the equestrian community to prioritize animal welfare and foster a better understanding of their practices, urging listeners to engage in the conversation and take action before external forces dictate the future of the sport. KEY TAKEAWAYS Proposal to Ban Training Aids: The Dutch House of Representatives has accepted a proposal to ban certain training aids in equestrian sports, including spurs and specific whips, raising concerns about the implications for animal welfare and training practices. Accountability in Equestrian Practices: The discussion emphasizes that the issue lies not with the training aids themselves but with the individuals using them. Proper education and accountability among equestrians are crucial to ensure the welfare of the animals. Potential Consequences of Banning Implements: Banning training aids may not solve the problem of animal cruelty; instead, it could push harmful practices underground, making it harder to address the real issues in the equestrian community. Importance of Education and Awareness: There is a need for equestrians to educate the public about the responsible use of training aids and the role they play in the welfare and training of horses, fostering a better understanding of the equestrian world. Call to Action for Equestrians: Equestrians are urged to prioritize the welfare of horses, act responsibly, and work together to create a positive image of the sport, ensuring that they are seen as advocates for animal welfare rather than contributors to cruelty. Relevant Resources https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/dutch-ban-bits-spurs-training-aids-884886 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.
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8:05
Creating Safe Spaces: How Empower Change Aims to Support Young Equestrians
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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
Welcome to Let’s Talk Horse Business, the go-to podcast for anyone passionate about the equestrian industry! Hosted by George Betson, this show dives deep into the world of horse business, covering everything from industry trends and equine entrepreneurship to marketing, management, and innovation in the field. Whether you’re a stable owner, trainer, rider, or equine enthusiast looking to turn your passion into a thriving business, this podcast delivers expert insights, success stories, and practical advice to help you stay ahead.
UK