Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Business
Society & Culture
Health & Fitness
Sports
Technology
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Podjoint Logo
US
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts122/v4/0c/bf/09/0cbf091c-36aa-0f40-77ce-411bfc4b3f2c/mza_15947947318102491171.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Why Not?
Chrissy Hawkins
202 episodes
6 days ago
In a world where everyone always asks why, we are here to ask why not? On never ending quest to learn about ourselves we discuss elements of mindset that can be both helpful and destructive. Some solo eps from Chrissy and interviews with guests as she tries to find out, what makes people say why not?
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
RSS
All content for Why Not? is the property of Chrissy Hawkins and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
In a world where everyone always asks why, we are here to ask why not? On never ending quest to learn about ourselves we discuss elements of mindset that can be both helpful and destructive. Some solo eps from Chrissy and interviews with guests as she tries to find out, what makes people say why not?
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
Episodes (20/202)
Why Not?
#199 The Year That Hasn't Gone to Plan (And I’m Glad It Didn’t)


As we close out the first half of the year, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what’s changed—and what it’s taught me.

Six months ago, I was living in Ireland, planning a very different kind of move.

Since then, I’ve made some of the biggest decisions of my life—including moving to France on my own. It’s something I always wanted to do, but hadn’t acted on until now.

This episode is a look at what it’s really like to start fresh in a new place, face unexpected challenges, and rebuild routines when everything around you shifts. I talk about:

  • Learning to trust your gut (and the cost when you don’t)

  • Building resilience in a year that didn’t go to plan

  • Losing structure, regaining momentum, and showing up anyway

  • Creating systems that help me stay grounded, focused, and honest

  • Why it’s never too late to do something new—and how this move reminded me of that

This is the last episode before the podcast takes its usual summer break.

We’ll be back in September with Episode 200, and some exciting things to come.

In the meantime, feel free to comment your own mid-year reflections or what you’re planning for the second half of 2025—I’d love to hear where you’re at.


Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
4 months ago
26 minutes 53 seconds

Why Not?
#198 Comfort Isn’t the Same as Fulfilment

This episode explores the uncomfortable but deeply honest process of realising you want more—when everything on the surface looks fine.

I talk about what it means to live in that quiet space between “not bad” and “not enough,” and how hard it can be to admit you're ready for something different. Whether it's a shift in your work, relationships, routine, or identity, there's a real fear in acknowledging you’ve outgrown what used to fit.

This isn’t about blowing everything up or throwing shade on your past self. It’s about learning to listen when your inner voice gets louder—and recognising that desire isn’t selfish, it’s information.

I unpack:

  • The guilt of wanting more when nothing is technically “wrong”

  • The stories we tell ourselves about what we should be happy with

  • Why dissatisfaction isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign of growth

  • The subtle signs you’re ready to shift (even if you’re scared to)

  • How I’ve personally navigated this space and what I’m still figuring out

If you’ve ever felt like you were meant for more—but couldn’t explain why—this episode will help you feel less alone in that.

If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag ⁠⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
4 months ago
19 minutes 36 seconds

Why Not?
#197 When Visibility Feels Like Vulnerability

Ever feel like visibility should be exciting—but instead it makes you want to run?
In this episode, I’m diving into what it really feels like to be seen—and why it can trigger so much discomfort, even when it’s what we want.

I talk about the subtle ways we keep ourselves small, how fear of attention can sabotage our growth, and the mindset shifts that helped me stop flinching when the spotlight hit.

Whether you're showing up online, taking on new opportunities, or just trying to stop hiding—you’re not alone.

In this episode:
– Why visibility feels scary (even when you asked for it)
– The quiet ways we hide our progress
– How taking up space builds real self-trust
– What’s helped me stop ghosting my goals
– A challenge for anyone ready to stop playing small


If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: ⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠

  • Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag ⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
4 months ago
23 minutes 9 seconds

Why Not?
#196 You Show Up for Everyone Else… What About You?

This solo episode is all about self-trust — what it actually means, how we lose it without realising, and what it feels like to build it back.

If you’ve ever felt like you can show up for everyone except yourself… or like your goals always seem to come last on your to-do list, this one’s for you.

We’re not talking about hustle or motivation here. We’re talking about becoming someone you can rely on — someone who keeps their word, even when no one else is watching.

In this episode I cover:

  • Why we break promises to ourselves (and how that chips away at confidence)

  • What self-trust really looks like in everyday life

  • The shift that happens when you start following through

  • How to show yourself grace without abandoning your goals

  • Simple ways to start rebuilding trust, one small step at a time

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about proving to yourself, day by day, that you’ve got your own back.


If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: ⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠

  • Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
4 months ago
20 minutes 45 seconds

Why Not?
#195: The Hardest Part of Progress

In this solo episode, I’m diving into something that’s been showing up in my own life lately — the middle bit.

That weird, quiet, slightly awkward phase where you’ve started the work, but the big results haven’t arrived yet.

You're not struggling, but you're not buzzing either. You're showing up, but it doesn’t feel exciting. Sound familiar?

This is the episode I needed myself this week — a reminder that growth isn’t always loud, and that progress often hides in the days that feel slow or uncertain.

What I cover:

  • Why the “middle” of any journey feels the hardest

  • How to recognise progress that doesn’t feel like progress

  • The difference between a plateau and quiet integration

  • Why slowing down doesn’t mean starting over

  • What I’m learning about consistency that doesn’t rely on hype

  • How to stay connected to your goals when momentum feels low

You’re not off track — you’re just on a hill. And hills feel harder… but they still move you forward.


If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: ⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠

  • Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Show more...
5 months ago
21 minutes 59 seconds

Why Not?
#194 When Progress Feels Hard, Remember: You’re Climbing

In this solo episode, I’m following up on Episode 191 (When Progress Feels Like Panic) with a deeper dive into the dips that come after growth — and how easy it is to mistake them for failure.

This week, I hit one of those dips myself. After a run of feeling good and showing up consistently, I found myself shutting down — and falling into familiar patterns.

But this time, I responded differently.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever asked, “Why does it feel like I’m back here again?” even though they know they’ve grown.

We’ll talk about:

  • How momentum really works (spoiler: it’s not linear)

  • Why old patterns show up when you’re tired, stressed, or stretched

  • The difference between rest and avoidance

  • Why “I should be over this” is a lie

  • How to recognise progress even in the middle of a setback

  • The one thing I’m doing differently this time around

You’re not back at the start — you’re facing something familiar with stronger awareness. And that’s what growth actually looks like.


If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: ⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠

  • Find me on Instagram: ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…



Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠



Show more...
5 months ago
23 minutes 2 seconds

Why Not?
#193 The Real Reason You Keep Starting Over


In this episode, I’m getting into the real reason your training isn’t consistent—and it’s not because you’re lazy or unmotivated. It’s because you’re not planning it like you plan everything else in your life.

You schedule work, appointments, social plans—so why do you expect your workouts to just happen?

We’ll cover:

  • Why motivation fades and clarity keeps you going

  • How to figure out what your body actually needs

  • The difference between training for a purpose vs training out of guilt

  • How to stop wasting time on workouts that don’t serve you

  • What planning your training really looks like (without overcomplicating it)

  • When getting help is the fastest way to stop spinning your wheels

If you’ve been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.

  • Work with me: www.chrissyhawkins.com

  • Find me on Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_

  • Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I’d love to hear your thoughts.

  • Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.

  • Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.

  • Tag @stronginthesaddle_ in your stories so I can say thanks.

Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…


Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Show more...
5 months ago
24 minutes 13 seconds

Why Not?
#192 Stop Waiting, Start Moving: Lessons From an Overthinker

In this solo episode, I dive into the realities of overthinking — and how waiting for the "perfect" plan or moment can leave you stuck doing nothing at all.

I talk about:

  • How I wasn’t even an over-planner — I just avoided planning altogether, but convinced myself I'd made progress

  • The challenges of being an introvert in a media course full of extroverts, and the jealousy I felt seeing others so clear on their paths

  • Working in a jewellers, eventually studying to become a PT, and how long it took me to make the leap into the fitness world

  • Realising I’m not a professional planner — I’m a professional overthinker

  • How even perfectly laid plans (like my trip through France) can still go wrong — and why that's okay

  • The importance of learning by doing, and seeing setbacks as feedback, not failure

  • Taking opportunities even when you don’t feel ready, because that's the only way to grow

  • Finding little ways to get out of your own head — even if it’s having full-blown conversations with yourself

  • Creating routines and rituals that help you take action, without overwhelming yourself with a huge list of “non-negotiables”

  • Why if you wait for the perfect time, you'll just end up watching life pass you by — so you might as well go for it

I'd love to hear what you’re working towards — drop a comment and let me know!

inks + Mentions:

  • Connect on Instagram → ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠


    Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
6 months ago
24 minutes 25 seconds

Why Not?
#191 – When Progress Feels Like Panic: My Story with Stress


In this solo episode, I’m sharing something I’ve been unpacking privately for a long time—my relationship with stress, and how it shows up when life starts to change.

You’ll hear about the pattern I’ve noticed in myself: how I sometimes retreat after making bold moves, even when they’re exactly what I wanted.

I talk through how I used to bury stress, what happened when that stopped working, and the questions I ask myself now when I start to feel overwhelmed or blocked.

Whether you’re in a season of growth, burnout, or somewhere in between—this episode is here to remind you: you’re not behind, and you’re not alone.


What I cover:

  • Why we pull back after stepping outside our comfort zone

  • The stress response no one talks about

  • How I process overwhelm and check in with what I really need

  • The difference between resting and avoiding

  • Simple steps to move forward without bulldozing yourself

Links + Mentions:

  • Connect on Instagram → @stronginthesaddle_


    Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
6 months ago
27 minutes 30 seconds

Why Not?
#190 From the Stands to the Studio with @markjason86

Today I’m joined by Mark Jason Fanning — racing pundit, content creator, and all-round racing enthusiast.

If you’ve ever found yourself caught up in the buzz of a raceday or just love hearing from someone who truly lives and breathes the sport, this one’s for you.

We chat about:

  • How Mark first got into racing — from skipping school to hiding in ditches just to catch a glimpse of the action at Thurles

  • Working with bookies on racedays to earn a few quid and fuel the passion

  • How the general interest in racing has changed over the years, even around big events like Cheltenham

  • The shift in tech from the Bebo days to building a brand and showing up online now

  • The challenges of putting yourself out there and how to handle both constructive feedback and the not-so-constructive

  • Plans for the year ahead, including setting up a little home studio for content creation

  • Tackling racing’s bad reputation — and why we need more stories that highlight the real care and love for the horses

  • Why good news doesn’t travel as fast as bad news, and what needs to change

  • Going to Cheltenham for the first time (despite working in racing for years) and how it lived up to the hype

  • Mark also flips the script at the end and shares the best advice he would give someone starting out

We also take a moment to reflect on the tragic passing of jockey Michael O’Sullivan, and the impact it had on the racing community — a sobering reminder of the risks in the sport and the strength of the people within it.

Where to find Mark:
Instagram – @markjason86
YouTube – MJF Sports

If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠



Show more...
6 months ago
45 minutes 48 seconds

Why Not?
#189 Alone, Not Lonely: A New Chapter in France


It’s been a while since I’ve done a solo episode – and even more mad that I’m recording this one from France 🇫🇷

In this episode, I’m giving a bit of a life update and chatting through everything from why I moved, to how I got here (with my guinea pig, Spud, in tow), and what I’ve learned along the way.

Here’s what I cover:

  • Why I finally made the move to France – something I’d dreamed of for years but had nearly written off

  • How a big breakup led me to therapy, which completely changed my life

  • Wanting to run away at first… then realising I actually wanted to move for me

  • Travelling the hard way (because of course I did), including a very unplanned “well-planned” journey

  • Having just 10 days to rethink everything and settling on Perpignan

  • The emotional toll of putting yourself first when you’re not used to doing it

  • Bringing Spud across countries while my amazing parents carried the suitcase

  • Learning to settle into a new place, without speaking the language

  • The reality of social anxiety when you don’t have the words

  • Choosing to have a beginner’s mindset when it comes to speaking French

  • The joy of making your own schedule and not having to adjust for anyone else

  • A little challenge for you to try putting yourself first — or spend some time alone and see how it feels

  • And a reminder: just be yourself, and stop worrying about what anyone else thinks

Whether you’re thinking about a big change, working on yourself, or just curious about life abroad — this one’s a personal one, and I hope you enjoy it.

Show more...
7 months ago
29 minutes 4 seconds

Why Not?
#188 Mistakes, Milestones and the Magic of Horses with @dillon_equi


Today I’m chatting with Dillon Ryan, better known as @dillon_equi on Instagram. Dillon’s an equestrian influencer now, but he only started riding in 2020 — and what a journey it’s been since.

Growing up in a small village in North County Dublin, Dillon always felt drawn to horses trotting by, but it wasn’t until the world shut down during COVID and his work in the airline industry paused that he decided to finally give riding a go.

We talk about:

  • The nerves of starting lessons as an adult

  • Knowing instantly he was in the right place

  • Discovering that horses all have their own personalities

  • Leasing one horse… then another… until a friend suggested, “Why don’t you just get your own?”

  • The process of finding his first horse, Duffy, with support from more experienced horsey friends

  • The emotional moment of bringing Duffy home

  • The heartbreaking decision to let Duffy go and thinking he might never own a horse again

  • Meeting Elvis, his current horse — and realising the difference between owning a 14-year-old versus a 5-year-old!

  • Going back to basics, building trust, and learning together

  • The importance of setting your ego aside and getting help when you need it

  • Celebrating the little wins that come with producing a young horse

  • His plans for the year ahead with Elvis

  • And some great advice for anyone starting out in the equestrian world

This is a brilliant, down-to-earth chat about coming into the equestrian world as an adult, building confidence, and embracing the ups and downs that come with horse ownership.

Where to find Dillon:
Instagram – @dillon_equi

Show more...
7 months ago
39 minutes 11 seconds

Why Not?
#187 The Journey to Ed: How One Horse Changed Everything for @edthedun


Today, I’m chatting with Lorraine Cribben, better known as @edthedun on Instagram. Lorraine is a veterinary nurse, an equine photographer, and an equestrian influencer who has built a strong community around her journey with her horse, Ed.

We talk about:

  • How she got into equine photography and how balancing two jobs doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do
  • Setting up her Instagram page just after she got Ed and being surprised by how quickly it took off
  • The surreal feeling of being recognised as “someone from Instagram”

Then, we dive into Ed—how Lorraine nearly missed out on him but, thanks to a bit of fate, he ended up being hers. She shares:

  • What it was like bringing him home for the first time
  • The different things they’ve tried together, including giving polo a go
  • Why he’s currently on holidays and the challenges of winter riding
  • The process of bringing a horse back to fitness after a break

We also chat about the importance of having a solid support system—whether you’re competing or just riding for fun.

Lorraine shares her plans for both Ed’s future and her Instagram page, including an exciting giveaway coming up soon!

To follow along with Lorraine and Ed, check out @edthedun on Instagram.

If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠




Show more...
7 months ago
33 minutes 37 seconds

Why Not?
#186 Strength Without the Scales: Ditching Diet Culture in Fitness @simple.strength.leixlip

Do you hate the gym? This might be diet cultures fault.

Today, I’m chatting with Maggie Lawlor, owner of Simple Strength Gym in Leixlip, who specialises in non-diet fitness for women.

Maggie first got into gym-based training as a runner trying to avoid injuries, but over the years, her passion grew. She eventually became a coach, left her job as a nurse, and took the leap to open her own gym.

We talk about:

  • Making the move from nursing to coaching and how she gradually built her client base before going all in
  • Her first pregnancy and how it led her deep into research on strength training for women
  • The pressure on women to “bounce back” after pregnancy and why that mindset needs to change
  • The physical benefits of strength training before and after birth
  • How experienced lifters sometimes struggle to adjust intensity during pregnancy
  • Listening to your body and why rest is not a sign of weakness
  • The grip of diet culture on women and the fear of losing fitness or gaining weight instead of focusing on growing a human
  • Why every woman should see a pelvic floor physio postpartum
  • Running a marathon while breastfeeding (!?)
  • The dangers of comparing yourself to celebrities or athletes with completely different circumstances

We then dive into Maggie’s approach at Simple Strength Gym:

  • Why so many people think they hate gyms when really, they just hate the association with punishment and guilt
  • How she reassures new clients—no weigh-ins, no unrealistic expectations, just movement that feels good
  • The health benefits of exercise we all take for granted until they’re gone
  • Why smaller studio gyms can be a better fit for people nervous about starting
  • The importance of paying attention to the content you consume and how it shapes your self-image
  • The sneaky ways diet culture hides in fitness challenges—if it looks like a diet, it probably is
  • Why true healthy habits aren’t flashy, but they actually work
  • How fitness should be simple—if someone overcomplicates it, that’s a red flag
  • Accepting that some days will be better than others and that doesn’t make you a failure

Maggie finishes with some brilliant advice to leave you thinking.

To find out more or work with Maggie, you can find her at:

@simple.strength.leixlip

https://www.simplestrengthleixlip.com/

If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠





Show more...
8 months ago
1 hour 2 minutes 19 seconds

Why Not?
#185 Not All Men but Always the Patriarchy with @healinggalspodcast

Are you living life on Default?

In today’s episode, I chat with Molly Smyth, the creator and host of The Healing Gals Podcast.

Molly also hosts women’s circles and workshops, where she brings women together to support each other and help them heal.

Molly’s own healing journey began when she discovered her long-term partner had been cheating on her, shattering her world.

This difficult experience led her to a path of healing, and now she’s passionate about helping other women on their own journeys.

We dive into topics like:

  • Conditioning: How women are conditioned to feel “less than” so they can be sold more and more products to try to make them feel worthy.

  • Compliments and Body Image: We discuss how well-intentioned compliments about someone's appearance may have a negative impact, and how it's important to be mindful of how we talk about others' bodies.

  • Curating Your Environment: How carefully choosing your social media feed and the conversations you're a part of can affect your self-esteem and how you feel about yourself.

  • Worthy Without Effort: Molly shares why you don’t have to change anything about yourself to be worthy. It's okay if others choose things like makeup, diets, or cosmetic surgery—just make sure it's something you truly want, not something you feel pressured into.

  • Not a Trend: We talk about how our bodies are not trends, and how the pressure to keep changing them to fit ever-changing standards is damaging.


We also explore Molly’s previous relationship, how she was manipulated, and how she allowed it to happen because she was in such a vulnerable state.


  • Boundaries: Molly talks about the importance of setting boundaries—not to change others, but to protect your own well-being and create space for relationships with people who respect you.

  • Resentment and Relationships: We discuss how running yourself ragged in relationships can breed resentment, which can ultimately kill the connection.

  • The Patriarchy: How hating the patriarchy doesn’t mean hating men and how both women and men are affected by it.

  • Insidious Influence: We talk about how patriarchy sneaks into our lives, through advertising, and the ways we unknowingly act in our own homes.


Molly finishes with the best piece of advice on taking care of your inner child and why it’s so crucial for our well-being.


You can find Molly and the podcast on Instagram: @healinggalspodcast

If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
8 months ago
49 minutes 3 seconds

Why Not?
#184 From Anxiety to Four Horses with @trottingawaymyanxiety_⁠

We know horses can cause anxiety but can they help you cure it too?

This week, I’m joined by Siobhan O’Gara, better known as @trottingawaymyanxiety_ on Instagram.

As much as she cringes at the term, she’s an equestrian influencer who has built a community by simply showing up and being herself.

Siobhan rode as a child but took a break when she didn’t have her own horse.

Now, with adult money, she hasn’t just bought one—she’s got four!

We chat about how quickly she went from one to three horses in just a few months, how she balances them all, and the feeling of bringing home her first horse after literally writing down exactly what she wanted.

The universe definitely delivered!

We also talk about her unconventional approach—buying horses without ever riding them first—something that would make most equestrians break out in a sweat.

Then, we switch gears to her experience with anxiety and how it completely halted her life. Siobhan shares how, despite not having an obvious trigger, her anxiety became so severe she was convinced she had a physical illness.

She opens up about:

  • The fight to get doctors to listen and not misdiagnose her with depression
  • Taking a solo flight to Edinburgh after nearly 10 years of being unable to travel
  • How content creation helped her feel real again
  • Why social media actually helped both of us find answers for our own mental health struggles

We also chat about how animals can be a lifeline during tough times, the pressure to be a “proper equestrian”, and why it’s okay to just have fun with your horses instead of chasing competition goals.

Siobhan gives some great insight into the equestrian community, common misconceptions, and shares her advice for anyone wanting to grow online.

And of course, she wraps up with the final question in a way only she can.

Find Siobhan on Instagram: @trottingawaymyanxiety_


If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
8 months ago
41 minutes 18 seconds

Why Not?
#183 AI Has Changed the Game – Are You Ready to Play? with @shanemcsocial

This week, I’m joined by Shane McCarthy, an AI aficionado and entrepreneur, back for another chat after his first appearance on Episode #107 .⁠

Following on from last week’s AI episode, we dive deeper into what AI can really do, the opportunities it presents, and the challenges it brings.

💡 What We Chat About:

  • A quick reintroduction to Shane and the many things he’s working on (plus an exclusive announcement 👀).
  • What first drew him to AI and why he believes we’re on the brink of a seismic shift in how the world operates.
  • How he’s been testing AI’s capabilities from day one and why most people are only scratching the surface of what it can do.
  • The fact that AI goes beyond ChatGPT – from video editing to building websites – and you don’t need to be a techie to make the most of it.
  • How he built a brand in just 50 minutes using a few AI tools, saving weeks of work, time, and money.The conversation around job losses and why humans are still needed to drive AI – but upskilling is key.
  • AI and the loneliness epidemic – how technology connects us more than ever but also leaves people feeling isolated.
  • The global mental health crisis and how governments aren’t taking it seriously, leaving individuals and initiatives to step in without proper support.
  • Logic vs Emotion – how taking a step back and thinking logically can change how we react to situations.
  • Using AI’s speaking feature tTo ask deep questions and how curiosity can lead to a better understanding of yourself.
  • Whether it’s too late to start learning AI (spoiler: it’s not) and where we are now on the innovation adoption curve.
  • Shane’s top advice for anyone wanting to dive into AI and start learning today.


Plus, Shane has a new podcast launching this Thursday with Katie Sheehan – The Ripple Effect. Keep an eye out for that one!

Find Shane on all socials: ⁠@shanemcsocial⁠


Where you can find my new brand:

Instagram: ⁠⁠@creative_horizons_content⁠⁠


⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠

If you are interested in working with me you can find me :

Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠


Show more...
9 months ago
1 hour 4 minutes 20 seconds

Why Not?
#182 Why Not Break Boundaries? AI Meets Creative Horizons

Time for me to be the one answering the question Why Not?

In today’s episode, I’m sharing how I’m fully living the why not philosophy by launching my new AI-powered brand, Creative Horizons Content Creation! This isn’t just a business; it’s my leap into the future of creativity, and I’m bringing you along for the ride.

Here’s What We’ll Explore:

  • Why I decided to create an AI-powered content brand and how it reflects the why not mindset.
  • How AI can help us work smarter, faster, and more creatively instead of being something to fear.
  • A personal story of how I started playing with AI tools, overcame my skepticism, and found them fun and inspiring.
  • Common myths about AI, including why it’s not replacing jobs but transforming how we work.
  • The vision for Creative Horizons: making content creation simple and stress-free while keeping your unique brand voice.

Key Takeaway: AI isn’t here to take over; it’s here to help. Whether you’re ready to experiment or want someone to handle the complexities for you, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

So, why not give this episode a listen? Let’s explore the potential of AI and how it can transform creativity for the better.

Remember, in a world where people ask “why,” we’re here to ask why not?

Where you can find my new brand:

Instagram: @creative_horizons_content

LinkedIn

If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠





Show more...
9 months ago
21 minutes 58 seconds

Why Not?
#181 Learning to Listen to Your Body with @celinenelli_femalehealth

Do you ever check in with your body? Sure there's apps for everthing but do you actually know how you FEEL?

In this episode, I sit down with Celine Nelli, a nutritional therapist who specialises in female health from puberty to menopause. Celine’s passion lies in helping women reconnect with their bodies, something many of us have lost touch with in today’s world.

💡 What We Talk About:

  • Understanding Your Cycle: Many women either have no idea about their menstrual cycle or rely solely on apps to track it, without truly noticing how their body feels through the various stages. Celine shares how reconnecting with these natural rhythms can be a game changer.
  • Celine’s Journey: A difficult pregnancy ignited Celine’s fascination with learning about hormones, the female body, and how everything works together. Now, as a mother to two daughters, she’s passionate about empowering them (and others) to take charge of their health early on.
  • Simplifying Wellness: The wellness industry often overcomplicates things. Celine believes that sticking to the basics is often what truly works.
  • Hormones Over a Lifetime: We discuss how hormones fluctuate throughout a woman’s life and how factors like stress, nutrition, and sleep play a significant role.
  • The Role of Sperm in Fertility: (Spoiler: It’s more important than you might think!) Fertility struggles can often stem from either partner, so working together and optimising health on both sides is key.
  • Diet Culture Challenges: The all-or-nothing mindset many women struggle with makes lifestyle changes harder. Balance is the key to long-term success, something I see in the gym time and again.
  • Practical Tips for Women: Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or simply want to feel better, Celine shares actionable advice to help you take the first steps.
  • Advocating for Yourself: Knowing your cycle and understanding your body can make it easier to navigate medical situations and advocate for your health.
  • The Impact of Stress: Stress affects hormone health in ways we often don’t realise. Celine explains how recognising hidden stressors and introducing changes gradually can help you create lasting habits.

Celine wraps up the conversation with a piece of advice you won’t want to miss!

💻 Where to Find Celine:
You can connect with Celine and learn more about her work here:

Instagram: celinenelli_femalehealth

If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle ⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠



Show more...
9 months ago
59 minutes 15 seconds

Why Not?
#180 Starting 2025 with Intention

Welcome to the first episode of 2025—how did that happen already?

As I sat down to record this, I thought back to coming home from the holidays.

My first instinct was to dive straight back into everything, but instead, I decided to take my time.

I focused on smaller, manageable steps to ease myself back into a routine, and honestly, it made all the difference.

This is a lot like the typical New Year’s resolutions we hear about.

People often try to do everything all at once—a full life reset—and it can quickly lead to overwhelm and burnout.

So instead of diving headfirst into a complete overhaul (there’s the word!), why not take a step back?

Start with the easy wins, the little things that build momentum and help you find your rhythm.

Another thing I touch on in this episode is how much of an impact social media can have on your mindset.

If your feed is full of posts that leave you feeling bad about yourself, don’t be afraid to mute or unfollow.

Why would you want to upset yourself more? Protect your energy and focus on what feels good for you.

At the heart of all this is the question: what do you really want? I encourage you to ask yourself “why” five times to dig into the real reason behind your goals.

Be honest with yourself. Sometimes, you already know what to do, but fear holds you back.

If you find yourself coming back to the same desire again and again, that’s your sign—you really want it. Go for it. Take the leap and see what happens.

Finally, as we start this new year, I’d love your help. If you have ideas for guests or if you’d like to join me for a chat, please reach out.

I’m keen to speak to as many people as possible who live by the “why not?” mantra. Let’s make 2025 a year of saying yes to the things we truly want.

Thanks for listening—here’s to a brilliant start to the year!

If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle ⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠

⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠


Show more...
9 months ago
23 minutes 44 seconds

Why Not?
In a world where everyone always asks why, we are here to ask why not? On never ending quest to learn about ourselves we discuss elements of mindset that can be both helpful and destructive. Some solo eps from Chrissy and interviews with guests as she tries to find out, what makes people say why not?