The Equestrian’s Inner Life, a podcast hosted by Pernille Hogg, explores the unseen journey of riders. Launched in October with an episode featuring six-time Olympian Mary Hanna, followed by chats with Brett Parbery and classical master Rafael Soto, it delves into connection, resilience, and the transformative bond between horse and human.
In episode four of The Equestrian’s Inner Life podcast, Pernille Hogg catches up with American Olympian Steffen Peters.
Ep 4. The art and soul of Steffen Peters
Few riders in the world embody quiet mastery the way Steffen Peters does. A six-time Olympian and one of the most respected dressage riders of our time, Steffen is celebrated not only for his extraordinary achievements in the arena, but for the artistry and soul he brings to every partnership.
Episode four of The Equestrian’s Inner Life explores the inner landscape of performance — how Steffen balances the pressures of competition with the work of staying centred, what his horses have taught him about presence and resilience, and the wisdom that comes from a lifetime dedicated to the equestrian path.
It’s a conversation about medals and moments, yes — but above all, about what it truly means to connect with a horse.
Steffen Peters reflects on the rare Triple Crown victory at Aachen with Ravel — a moment defined not by submission or politics, but by connection, gratitude, and deep respect for the horse who gave everything at exactly the right moment.
For Steffen, the essence of dressage has never been about submission, but about cooperation — a deep, willing connection between horse and rider. Speaking of his legendary partner Ravel, Steffen reflects on moments when that connection felt complete, when everything simply flowed. One such moment came at Aachen in Germany, where he and Ravel achieved the rare and coveted Triple Crown — winning all three tests, a landmark achievement in the sport. Their harmony there was unmistakable: calm, focused, and utterly present.
Even after earlier Olympic controversy surrounding Ravel’s placing in Hong Kong, Steffen chose not to engage in politics, meeting each challenge instead with quiet resolve. He recalls preparing Ravel at Aachen with absolute precision and trust — exactly 21 minutes of warm-up, not a second more — allowing the horse to arrive in the arena in the perfect state: relaxed, confident, and ready. What followed were flawless performances, including a groundbreaking freestyle that earned an 86% score and made history.
Yet beyond the scores and accolades, the moment was deeply personal. Steffen remembers looking out and seeing his mother, his family, close friends, and even the coach who had trained him in his early years — all there to witness what he and Ravel had created together. Later, in the quiet aftermath, standing with his horse and reflecting, the true meaning settled in.
“At least 80 percent was the horse,” Steffen says — a simple sentence that captures the gratitude, humility, and profound respect he holds for the partner who gave everything at exactly the right moment.
Click here to listen to ‘The Equestrian’s Inner Life’ Ep 4. The Art and Soul of Steffen Peters.
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