Dressage Today S7 E3: Interview With Noel Williams
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In this episode of the Dressage Today podcast, host Steph interviews Noelle Williams, a highly accomplished dressage rider, judge, and trainer with deep roots in the sport through her family's legacy at Temple Lipizzans. Noelle shares her journey from being born into a horse-centric household—where she was on a Lipizzan stallion before walking—to her competitive career, including her USDF medals and aspirations to represent Team USA internationally. She discusses her personal and professional milestones, including her upcoming schooling show with her young horse Deville, her decision to pass her prized shad belly to a close friend due to her horse Tiger's stress, and her reflections on the emotional and financial challenges of the sport. Noelle emphasizes the importance of humility, continuous learning, and the value of both riding and judging education. She also reflects on the profound influence of her mentors, the unique socialization of stallions at Temple, and the joy found in the everyday quirks and mishaps of horse training. The conversation ends on a light-hearted note, underscoring the necessity of humor in navigating the highs and lows of a life with horses.
Humility and continuous learning are essential—Noelle took lessons from Mary Wanless and Kathy, even as a high-level rider and judge.
The emotional and financial toll of elite dressage is real; Noelle chose to prioritize her horse’s well-being over her own competitive goals.
Judging education enhances riding and teaching by deepening understanding of biomechanics and scoring rationale.
Horses are not machines—consistency in balance and connection is the goal, not perfection.
The best training includes not just riding but also business management, scheduling, and teaching skills.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
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Introduction & Personal Updates
Hosts Aviva and Steph discuss the harsh winter weather, colic concerns, and Aviva’s recent experiences with Mary Wanless and a trip to Maui, including a rare whale sighting.
Noelle’s Upcoming Events & Personal Reflections
“I can't think of someone that I care for more to do it if I can't do it. So, you know, letting go of the dreams is hard, but, you know, sending the legacy forward makes it just a little bit easier, you know?”
The Value of Continuing Education
“I realized that I am collapsing rather than lifting in my canter transitions. And so I started teaching myself when I was riding and thinking about that. And wow, I rode some really nice canter transitions today.”
Ask the L: Training to First Level
Aviva breaks down the purpose of Training Level and First Level tests, emphasizing balance, suppleness, throughness, and the importance of consistent connection.
“If you don't laugh, you spend a lot of time crying and that's not good for your health. And unfortunately, I'm sure like you guys, you've been around long enough. You see, you think you see everything that can possibly go wrong with them. Never. There's always something new.”
“It's just a horse show. It's not brain surgery.”
“I can't think of someone that I care for more to do it if I can't do it. So, you know, letting go of the dreams is hard, but, you know, sending the legacy forward makes it just a little bit easier, you know?”
Hosts
Guest
Noelle Williams
person
Aviva
person
Steph
person
Temple Lipizzans
organization
Deville
other
Tiger
other
Dante
other
Mary Wanless
person
Davos
other
Cervelo
other
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