Interview with Olivia Renshaw

May 5 / Kat & Olivia
Interview with Olivia Renshaw
Founder of Wolds Equine Rehabilitation and Training

Olivia, take us back to the beginning — how did it all start?
Honestly, it feels like a lifetime ago now! I started the business around 10 years ago. Back then, I was a really keen equine massage therapist with a huge passion for rehabilitation. I’ve always loved Thoroughbreds in particular — I’ve taken quite a few out of racing, many with kissing spine, and worked through their rehab. That hands-on experience really shaped everything for me and drove my passion forward.  

How has the business evolved over the years?
It’s grown massively, both professionally and personally. After starting up, I spent three years training and qualifying in veterinary physiotherapy, which added a whole new depth to what I could offer. But alongside that, my love for teaching just kept growing and growing. Now, a huge part of what we do is education — and not just teaching techniques, but really developing people.  
What makes your teaching approach different?
For me, it’s all about the individual. My biggest thing is working with people who might struggle with believing in themselves. I love helping them uncover their strengths and also identifying where they need to develop — whether that’s mindset, confidence, or practical hands-on skills.

That’s why we keep our practical days really small — usually just three to six students. It’s incredibly low compared to similar courses, but it means we can really focus on each person. We’re not just teaching a skill — we’re building confidence and understanding in a really supportive environment.  
What would you say has been your biggest personal achievement?
Without a doubt, it’s the horses and the students together. Taking horses through rehab, especially those with complex issues and then using them as part of the learning process is incredibly rewarding.

I love allowing each horse to just be themselves, accepting them for who they are and what they’ve been through. Then watching my students grow in confidence as they work with those horses — and seeing that progression over time when they come back that’s honestly the most fulfilling thing for me.

And what about your achievements this year?
This year has been a big one! My biggest achievement personally has been completing my Level 7 PG Cert Animal Studies with the McTimoney College of Chiropractic. I’ve always wanted something at that master’s-level standard, so that meant a lot to me.

My second big achievement is writing a book, I’ve put together an anatomy book in collaboration with Kat, from KM Equine Services. That was a huge project and something I’m really proud of.
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What’s next for you and the business?
We’re already looking ahead! The next step is developing another book, but this time focusing more on massage and rehabilitation itself, rather than just anatomy. We want to keep expanding what we offer educationally while staying true to our core values — quality teaching, small groups, and really making a difference to both horses and people.

You clearly put a lot into your work — how do you switch off?
I’ll be honest — I am completely passionate about the horses and the students, but that can be quite mentally draining because I do put everything into it. My way of unwinding is actually very simple — I go home and help my husband with the cows! It’s my reset. No books, no laptop, just being outside, working with the cows. It gives my brain a break and helps me come back refreshed.

Finally, what keeps you motivated after all these years?
The people and the horses - always.  Watching both progress, grow and improve is what keeps me going.  There's nothing better than seeing someone gain confidence or a horse thrive through rehab.  That's what it's all about.
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