Have you ever considered the story your saddle is telling? Throughout history, saddles have symbolized connection, partnership, and the journeys we take. But in your own rides, is your saddle telling a story of trust—or betrayal?

We often assume a saddle that looks fine or feels "good enough" must be doing its job. But for countless horses, the effects of poor saddle fit are quietly devastating—causing chronic pain, behavioral issues, and eroding the trust between horse and rider. And for female riders, saddles designed for male anatomy may be holding them back in ways they don’t even realize.

In this episode, Noëlle sits down with Jochen Schleese, a Certified Master Saddler and Certified Equine and Saddle Ergonomist and founder of Saddlefit 4 Life®, to uncover the hidden truths about saddle fit. With decades of expertise, Jochen has helped countless horses move pain-free and empowered riders to feel balanced, comfortable, and confident. Together, they explore how an ill-fitting saddle impacts not just the horse’s body, but also the emotional and mental connection you share.

You’ll learn to spot the subtle signs of poor fit, understand the overlooked needs of female riders, and discover practical steps to assess and improve your saddle—without breaking the bank.

This conversation goes beyond saddle fit. It’s about redefining partnership, choosing compassion over convenience, and showing up for your horse in the most fundamental way: by listening.

Resources:

• Suffering in Silence: The Saddle Fit Link to Physical and Psychological Trauma in Horses by Jochen Schleese

• Explore Jochen’s work and saddle fitting resources: saddlefit4life.com