The Journey On Podcast: Episode Featuring Kate Pilcher

Release Date: February 14, 2025
Host: Warwick Schiller
Guest: Kate Pilcher, Founder of Globetrotting

Introduction

In this inspiring episode of The Journey On Podcast, host Warwick Schiller welcomes Kate Pilcher, the dynamic founder of Globetrotting. Globetrotting specializes in organizing horse riding vacations across nearly every continent, offering unique and transformative experiences for horse enthusiasts worldwide. Warwick and Kate delve deep into Kate's remarkable journey, the inception and growth of Globetrotting, and the profound personal development that accompanies horse travel.

Kate Pilcher’s Background and Early Journey

Kate Pilcher's passion for horses and travel began in her early years on a cotton farm in Dolby, Australia. Her father, an amateur racehorse trainer, introduced her to horsemanship, fostering a love for riding from the age of two. Despite attending boarding school where horses took a backseat, Kate's wanderlust led her to embark on a European gap year, immersing herself in diverse cultures and experiences.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [06:07]: "I had a husband who was willing to support my dreams, which is something I deeply cherish."

The Birth of Globetrotting

Kate's pivotal moment came during a photojournalist assignment in the Masai Mara, Kenya, where she rode alongside Maasai warriors during the peak migration. This transformative experience ignited her desire to create horse riding adventures that not only showcase the beauty of diverse landscapes but also foster deep cultural connections.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [07:40]: "Delving beneath the skin of a country horse allows you to understand a nation on a deeper level."

Recognizing a gap in the market, Kate founded Globetrotting to provide curated horse riding experiences that emphasize horse welfare, local culture, and environmental stewardship. The company offers a range of rides catering to different skill levels, ensuring accessibility for beginners while still challenging seasoned riders.

Global Adventures and Unique Experiences

Kate shares vivid anecdotes from her rides across the globe:

• Iceland: A week-long adventure riding Icelandic horses alongside a loose herd of 70, experiencing breathtaking scenery and unique herding techniques.

  Notable Quote:
  Kate Pilcher [08:24]: "Riding alongside a loose herd in Iceland is unlike anything else – it's pure magic."

• India: Exploring Rajasthan on Marwari horses, Kate appreciates the vibrant culture, spirituality, and the resilience of local communities.

  Notable Quote:
  Kate Pilcher [16:44]: "The color, vibe, and spirituality of India were beyond my expectations and deeply enriching."

• Argentina: Navigating the rugged terrains of Patagonia, Kate emphasizes living and breathing horses, experiencing the gaucho culture, and enduring the challenges of remote landscapes.

  Notable Quote:
  Kate Pilcher [25:36]: "Patagonia felt like a second home where horses truly reign."

• Botswana and Namibia: Engaging with the Okavango Delta's water ecosystems and the Namib Desert's harsh yet stunning environment, Kate highlights the adaptability and strength of both horses and riders.

  Notable Quote:
  Kate Pilcher [59:08]: "Riding through the Namib Desert was a blend of work and unparalleled beauty."

These stories illustrate how Globetrotting offers more than just horseback riding; each journey is a portal to personal transformation and cultural immersion.

Personal Growth and Developing Resilience

A significant portion of the conversation centers on personal development. Kate discusses her transition from a traditional life path to embracing her adventurous spirit, culminating in the creation of Globetrotting during her quarter-life crisis. This shift was not just professional but deeply personal, reshaping her understanding of purpose and fulfillment.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [30:47]: "My true purpose is to bring up resilient, gritty, strong-thinking girls."

Integrating meditation and breath work into her daily routine, Kate emphasizes the importance of mental well-being and resilience, not only for herself but also for her three daughters. These practices have become instrumental in navigating life's challenges and fostering inner strength.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [66:22]: "Breath work helps me tap into my inner peace and resilience."

Raising Resilient Children Through Globetrotting

Kate passionately shares how Globetrotting serves as a vehicle for raising her daughters to be strong and independent. By involving them in horse riding adventures, she provides experiential learning that goes beyond traditional education, fostering adaptability, confidence, and a deep connection with nature.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [70:08]: "Riding alongside my daughters allows me to impart tools for their personal growth in a natural and joyful way."

She highlights the concept of "world schooling," where real-world experiences complement formal education, shaping her children into well-rounded individuals who appreciate diverse cultures and environments.

Community and Connection

Globetrotting is not just about individual adventures but also about building a global community. Kate emphasizes the bonds formed between riders from different backgrounds, sharing that these connections often last a lifetime. The shared experiences of riding through challenging terrains foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among participants.

Notable Quote:
Kate Pilcher [82:14]: "When you ride together, you forge connections that surpass traditional friendships. It's like being in the trenches together."

Embracing the Universe’s Magic

Throughout the episode, both Warwick and Kate reflect on the serendipitous moments that led to their ventures. Kate recounts how selling her magazine coincided perfectly with launching Globetrotting, a testament to the universe's timing when one surrenders control and remains open to opportunities.

Notable Quote:
Warwick Schiller [62:35]: "The universe has a magic to it when you can surrender to it and live your karma."

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Warwick and Kate wrap up the episode by underscoring the transformative power of following one's passion and embracing change. Kate's journey exemplifies how aligning personal goals with broader purposes can lead to meaningful and impactful endeavors. Globetrotting stands as a beacon for those seeking adventure, personal growth, and a deeper connection with both horses and the world.

Notable Quote:
Warwick Schiller [88:12]: "Inspiring others to follow their dreams and be open to the universe brings amazing gifts."

How to Connect with Globetrotting

Listeners eager to embark on their own horse riding adventures can learn more about Globetrotting through the following channels:

• Website: globetrotting.com.au – Features a fun pop quiz to help find the perfect ride based on ability, budget, and travel duration.
• Social Media: Available on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube by searching "Globetrotting."

Closing Statement:
Warwick Schiller extends his gratitude to Kate Pilcher for sharing her inspiring story and encourages listeners to explore the transformative journeys offered by Globetrotting.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that the journey truly is the destination, embodying personal growth, cultural immersion, and the timeless bond between humans and horses.