Who Is The Adult Amateur? | Orchid Bertelsen | Ep 55

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Kelly sits down with Orchid In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Kelly sits down with Orchid Bertelsen to talk about returning to the horse world after a 25-year break, rediscovering passion as an adult, and navigating the realities of balancing horses, motherhood, work, and personal identity. With a background in digital marketing, Orchid opens up about leaving her career to pursue something that truly fulfilled her and how documenting her equestrian journey online has helped her reconnect with the sport in an entirely new way.The conversation dives deep into the emotional side of being an adult amateur rider — the guilt of taking time for yourself, the pressure to “have it all together,” and the struggle to balance family responsibilities while still pursuing personal goals. Kelly and Orchid discuss how horses become more than just a hobby; they become therapy, connection, and a way to reconnect with yourself outside of everyday life.They also unpack the realities of modern equestrian culture, from the financial commitment of the sport to the elitism and pressure often felt within the industry. Together, they explore why horsemanship, community, and inclusivity matter more than appearances or status, and why newcomers to the sport deserve encouragement rather than judgment.This episode is an honest conversation about passion, identity, self-care, and what it really means to be an adult amateur equestrian in today’s world.to talk about returning to the horse world after a 25-year break, rediscovering passion as an adult, and navigating the realities of balancing horses, motherhood, work, and personal identity. With a background in digital marketing, Orchid opens up about leaving her career to pursue something that truly fulfilled her and how documenting her equestrian journey online has helped her reconnect with the sport in an entirely new way.The conversation dives deep into the emotional side of being an adult amateur rider — the guilt of taking time for yourself, the pressure to “have it all together,” and the struggle to balance family responsibilities while still pursuing personal goals. Kelly and Orchid discuss how horses become more than just a hobby; they become therapy, connection, and a way to reconnect with yourself outside of everyday life.They also unpack the realities of modern equestrian culture, from the financial commitment of the sport to the elitism and pressure often felt within the industry. Together, they explore why horsemanship, community, and inclusivity matter more than appearances or status, and why newcomers to the sport deserve encouragement rather than judgment.This episode is an honest conversation about passion, identity, self-care, and what it really means to be an adult amateur equestrian in today’s world.