Daisy Smith – Confidence Coach & Founder of How Very Horsey
Daisy Smith
Confidence Coach & Founder of How Very Horsey
Daisy Smith is a British equestrian, mindset coach, and founder of How Very Horsey, a consultancy dedicated to helping riders overcome fear and rediscover their confidence in the saddle. Coming from a distinguished equestrian lineage—her grandfather was a racehorse trainer, her father a National Hunt jockey, and her aunt Kelly Marks, founder of Intelligent Horsemanship—Daisy began riding at age 12. Within six months, she qualified for the Search for a Star final at the Horse of the Year Show. She went on to compete at top events like HOYS and the Royal International, winning multiple titles and becoming the only rider to win BSPS Rider of the Year twice.
Despite her early success, Daisy faced a profound crisis of confidence over a decade, intensified by a riding accident and personal challenges. Through a combination of psychotherapy, CBT, EFT, and other tools, she rebuilt her mindset and returned to riding with renewed purpose. This journey inspired her to support others facing similar struggles. As a qualified sports psychologist and mental health first aider, she now offers 1:1 and group coaching, focusing on rider psychology and confidence. Her blog has won multiple awards and she has been featured in publications like Horse & Rider and Horse & Hound.
Daisy Smith Content:
How to stand a horse up for a judge
How to stand a horse up for a judge Featuring Daisy Smith of How Very Horsey Two minute video to […]
Spring 2022
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Explore Your Spring 2022 IH Magazine!
Hello IH Members and friends!
Spring has officially sprung – and hasn’t it been lovely to see those longer evenings and a bit of fresh grass returning to the fields? Pie and Blondie are definitely enjoying the milder weather (and yes, the rolling has increased in both frequency and enthusiasm!). This issue is one I’m especially excited to share with you – we’ve dedicated the whole magazine to something we all need more of at times: Confidence. Whether it’s in the saddle, handling on the ground, or simply making decisions around our horses, confidence is at the heart of everything we do. And we’ve packed this edition with insights, stories and strategies to help you build it. I do hope you’ll find something here that speaks to you.
What’s Inside?
• Kelly Marks’ “My World” reflection on confidence, imposter syndrome, and the importance of nudging ourselves forward
• An inspiring Big Interview with performance psychologist Charlie Unwin on mindset and confidence
• Practical IH Training articles from Clare MacLeod (feeding for confidence), Gillian Higgins (physical readiness), and Dr Veronica Fowler (intelligent science)
• Traffic Light Training for Confidence with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
• IH Confidence Special – winning tips from Kelly, Sandra Williams and Daisy Smith
• Member stories including Natasha Smith’s heartfelt RAF journey and stage 2 student research projects
• Scientific insights on rider weight and symmetry from the Saddle Research Trust conference
• Letters and photos from members sharing their real-life confidence journeys
• The launch of our 2022 IH Equestrian Photographer of the Year – with a £500 prize pot!
Why You’ll Love This Issue
Spring is such a hopeful season, but it can also feel a bit daunting, especially if you’re coming out of winter unsure about your horse’s fitness—or your own! That’s why this Confidence Issue is a bit of a seasonal toolkit. Whether you’re planning your first dressage test like brave Sue Fletcher (p6) or just getting back to hacking after a soggy winter, you’ll find stories and strategies here to boost your confidence from the inside out.
You’ll love the variety: from Gillian Higgins’ wisdom on making sure your horse is physically safe to ride (p24), to Clare MacLeod’s expert insights into how nutrition affects behaviour and performance (p22). Plus, our wonderful IH students have been doing fascinating studies—ever wondered if a fly mask helps a horse during travel? (p15). There’s practical science, heartfelt stories, and lots of encouragement.
And if you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “good enough” or ready to try something new, I hope this issue will give you that gentle nudge. Because, as I always say, you can do this.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
4 – Kelly Marks: My World – Living Our Best Lives!
Kelly reflects on confidence, imposter syndrome, and how Intelligent Horsemanship continues to support both horses and humans to grow.
6 – Letters & Feedback
A whole page of your confidence stories, with heartfelt thanks to Daisy, Sandra and Kelly for the Confidence Webinar that sparked so many thoughts.
7 – IH News
Updates from across the IH community, including a touching tribute to Bob Brickell and support for women in racing.
9 – Members’ Photos
A beautiful gallery of members and their horses. Huge congratulations to canvas print winners Bruce, Diane and their Shire, Harry.
10 – Meet a Member: Natasha Smith
An inspiring profile of RAF medic Natasha, who credits IH with supporting both her horsemanship and mental wellbeing.
12 – IH Equine Photographer of the Year Launch
Full details of our exciting photo competition – open to members and a guest. Cash prizes, canvas print, and a spot in the magazine!
14 – Stage 2 Student Successes & Projects
Meet our newest diploma holders and discover their fascinating research on horse behaviour, stress, laterality, and more.
17 – Saddle Research Trust Conference Review
Sue Palmer breaks down Dr Hilary Clayton’s talk on how rider biomechanics affect horse welfare – a must-read for any rider.
18 – The Big Interview: Charlie Unwin
Performance psychologist Charlie Unwin reveals how mindset shapes everything from sport to horse riding success.
22 – IH Training: Feeding for Confidence with Clare MacLeod
Learn how nutrition can influence a horse’s confidence, behaviour, and readiness to learn.
24 – IH Training: Is Your Horse Physically Ready to Ride? with Gillian Higgins
Discover how to assess your horse’s readiness and comfort before riding – a practical guide to reduce risks and boost confidence.
26 – IH Training: Intelligent Science with Dr Veronica Fowler
Debunking bad science and helping you ask better questions – science communication at its best.
28 – IH Training: Confidence Special – Tips from Kelly, Sandra & Daisy
Real-world strategies from three IH pros on building confidence in yourself and your horse.
33 – IH Training: Traffic Light Training for Confidence with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
An innovative way to read your horse’s emotional state and respond with clarity and calm.
36 – IH Debate: Unsolicited Advice – Should We Give It or Keep Quiet?
Thought-provoking discussion on the culture of advice in the horse world – helpful or harmful?
38 – Book Extract: Bolder, Braver, Brighter
A sneak peek into a motivating new book on confidence and courage.
40 – Spotlight On: Charlie Carr
A close-up on an inspiring IH Trainer and their journey.
43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation from clients working with IH Trainers across the UK.
Navigation Tags
confidence, groundwork, rider psychology, rider positioning and biomechanics, nutrition, equine science, traveling, safety, acceptance training, student research, spring, photo competition
Spring 2020
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Explore Your Spring 2020 IH Magazine!
What’s Inside?
• Kelly Marks shares powerful reflections on brain health and horsemanship in her heartfelt My World column.
• Our very first IH Writer of the Year is announced! Read the moving winning entry by Lorne Thomas.
• Meet an extraordinary IH Member: Hollister Turner — a trailblazer for women in sport and lifelong learner of horsemanship.
• Daisy Smith reports on IH’s Mental Health First Aid training and why rider wellbeing matters more than ever.
• Dr Veronica Fowler unpacks the science behind ‘licking and chewing’ – is it really a sign of relaxation?
• Debate: Trick training – useful skill or problematic trend?
• Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores what makes someone an “expert” in the horse world.
• Sandra Williams tackles medical causes of poor performance in horses.
• Our Members’ section is packed with photos, feedback, and real-life inspiration from your fellow IH community.
Why You’ll Love This Issue
This special Spring edition is all about YOU – our members. From the extraordinary achievements of long-time IHers like Hollister Turner, to heartfelt writing from members who’ve overcome incredible personal challenges, every page celebrates what makes this community so powerful. Whether it’s Kelly’s stirring reminder to look after your brain (and wear that helmet!), or Daisy’s insightful report on mental health in equestrian life, this issue brings together learning, empathy, and encouragement in true IH spirit. If you’re in need of inspiration, reassurance, or just a nudge to keep going, it’s all here.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
4 – Kelly Marks: My World
Kelly takes a brave and personal look at head injuries, brain health, and mental wellbeing, tying it all back to what really matters in horsemanship – kindness, awareness and protecting both people and horses.
6 – Letters and Feedback
Heartfelt letters from members share stories of compassion, connection, and how IH has touched their lives – from saying goodbye to beloved ponies, to rediscovering confidence and joy.
7 – In Other News…
Updates from across the horse world, including rider confidence breakthroughs, animal welfare legislation news, and Carl Hester’s thoughts on happy horses.
8 – Meet a Member Special Edition: Hollister Turner
An inspiring profile of IH Member Hollister Turner – former director of the Women’s Sports Foundation, campaigner for equality, and passionate learner of horsemanship.
13 – Members’ Photos
From Shetlands to warmbloods, these photos capture the love and fun you share with your horses. (Congrats to Rachel & Rosie – our canvas print winners!)
14 – IH Mental Health First Aid Report
Daisy Smith explores how IH trainers are being equipped to spot and support mental health needs in riders. Includes practical takeaways and resources.
16 – IH Writer of the Year: Winner Announced
We reveal the winner of our very first writing competition: Lorne Thomas. Her story, “Highs, Lows & Just Don’t Knows”, is a touching tribute to love, loss, and finding hope through horses.
23 – We Need to Talk About… Concussion
Kelly Marks continues the conversation around rider head injuries – from brain scans to scratch-and-sniff smell tests – with wisdom, humour, and urgency.
28 – Intelligent Debate: Trick Training
A thought-provoking discussion on whether trick training adds to or distracts from ethical horsemanship. Hear both sides and make up your own mind.
30 – IH Training: Medical Causes of Poor Performance in Horses
Sandra Williams highlights why it’s vital to rule out medical issues before labelling a horse as ‘naughty’ or resistant – a must-read for every horse owner.
34 – Intelligent Science: Licking & Chewing – What Does It Mean?
Dr Veronica Fowler breaks down the behaviour we often associate with relaxation – but is it always what we think?
37 – Should You Really Trust the ‘Experts’?
Dr Rosie Jones-McVey explores the tricky topic of authority in the horse world – and how to tell helpful wisdom from confident guesswork.
40 – Spotlight On: Bridget Colston
A closer look at the adventures and insights of another remarkable IH member.
43 – IH Trainers Client Feedback
See what members are saying about their experiences with our brilliant IH Recommended Trainers.
44 – IH Courses
Details of upcoming courses to continue your horsemanship journey – whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your skills.
Navigation Tags
groundwork, horse psychology, rider health, concussion, mental health, veterinary, ethics, spring, writing competition, licking & chewing, performance,
Autumn 2018
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Explore Your Autumn 2018 IH Magazine!
What’s Inside?
• Kelly Marks shares inspiring career wisdom and honest stories from home in “My World”
• Dr Veronica Fowler breaks down equine science myths in “Intelligent Science”
• Fascinating Big Interview with Gillian Higgins, founder of Horses Inside Out
• Rosie Jones-McVey’s article sparks big conversations in “What is it with Women & Horses?”
• Training deep-dives with Dr David Marlin on salt & electrolytes, Daisy Smith on bitting, and Lizzie Hopkinson on bonding with new horses
• Uplifting stories from IH Members overcoming loading, bonding, and behavioural challenges
• A practical, heartfelt guide to rehoming horses
• Your chance to WIN HOYS tickets – don’t miss it!
• Final call for entries to the IH Young Equestrian Photographer of the Year – £500 prize up for grabs!
Why You’ll Love This Issue
This season, we’re digging deep into the connection between people and horses, whether it’s through groundbreaking anatomical insight from Gillian Higgins, or Dr Veronica Fowler’s refreshingly honest take on science headlines. I especially loved the thoughtful responses from members about the emotional bonds we share with horses (see p6–9) — they’re truly heartening.
We’ve also focused on practical, grounded training support. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune bitting choices (p26), want clarity on feeding salt (p24), or are still finding your rhythm with a new horse (p20), you’ll find useful, compassionate advice. This issue is all about encouraging you to keep learning, reflect deeply, and, most of all, enjoy your horse.
Complete Contents with Article Descriptions
4 – My World
Kelly Marks reflects on how to build your dream career, even when the path isn’t obvious. Plus, updates on Pie, Shylo and family horses, with candid chat on confidence, weight control, and the power of persistence.
6 – Letters & Feedback
Heartfelt stories from members overcoming big hurdles with their horses, from ‘Jaws’ the biting gelding to loading drama turned calm companionship.
9 – Members’ Photos
Beautiful submissions from members across the UK, celebrating the bonds they’ve built with their horses. This issue’s canvas winner: Sarah & Toff.
10 – In Other News
From therapy Shetlands to equine obesity studies, this round-up of updates is as informative as it is uplifting.
11 – Meet a Member: The Hughes Family
Meet the powerhouse Hughes family: instructors, saddle fitters, nutrition experts – and still finding time for medieval re-enactments and IH demos!
12 – IH Young Equestrian Photographer of the Year
Final call for entries! With tips from Sophie Callahan, Lucy Sewill and more, young photographers are encouraged to take that creative leap.
15 – Intelligent Science
Dr Veronica Fowler kicks off her new column by busting myths around horses recognising emotions in photographs. Smart, science-savvy, and a little bit sassy.
16 – The Big Interview: Gillian Higgins
An illuminating chat with the woman behind Horses Inside Out. From painting bones on horses to meeting the Queen, Gillian shares her journey and passion for equine education.
20 – IH Training: Bonding With Your New Horse (Part 2)
Lizzie Hopkinson continues her practical and heartfelt series for those in the early stages of a new horse-human relationship.
24 – IH Training: Feeding Salt and Electrolytes
Dr David Marlin helps you separate fact from fiction in this refreshingly clear breakdown on what horses actually need.
26 – IH Training: Bits and Mouths
Daisy Smith explores how to choose and fit the perfect bit, with kindness and clarity as top priorities.
29 – WIN! Tickets to HOYS
It’s the biggest show of the year – and you could be there! Find out how to enter.
30 – Intelligent Debate: Naming and Shaming
A balanced look at whether public ‘naming and shaming’ in the horse world helps or harms. Join the discussion.
32 – Home Sweet Home: The Intelligent Guide to Rehoming
Everything you need to know about giving a horse a second chance. Honest, emotional, and incredibly helpful.
37–42 – IHRT & Case Files
Updates from IH Recommended Trainers, including standout case studies from Cyndie Gould and Sue Palmer.
Navigation Tags
groundwork, horse psychology, bit fitting, electrolytes & feeding, nutrition, rehoming, IH science, brain & senses, myths busting, anatomy, biomechanics, loading, travelling
