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Over the years, I’ve learned a lot. As a trainer, I’ve always been more of a watcher than a talker. Who are you? When I was an assistant trainer for Mickey Hayden, I remember how easily he walked away from gossip. I admired that so much. I’d be standing with people chatting about the latest drama in the horse world, and I’d glance over at Mickey—he’d have that glazed look on his face, completely uninterested, and then he’d simply walk away. I loved that reaction. This industr

In my earlier years, I had many coaches who served as role models. Each one taught me something different. I leaned on their guidance, absorbed their strengths, and eventually shaped my own style. I truly love coaching. I love inspiring. I love that moment when a rider gets something right—the “ah ha” moment. I love seeing my horses enjoy their jobs. Those things fuel me. My most influential role models were three trainers who shaped me in very different ways. First was Gry M

Employee Challenges I’m sitting here this morning with my coffee, and I’ve just gotten a text that two of my employees aren’t coming in. One is sick, and the other… well, we’re not quite sure yet. When I started my business 26 years ago, it was just me. Only responsible for me. Luckily, I show up early, I work hard, and I’m rarely sick. I’ve always been able to depend on myself. As the business grew, I had to start hiring. First someone to help with the horses, then an assist

Good morning! I’m currently at the Northern Winter Classic horse show, and I must say, the weather is so much better this week. Last week it was 20° with the windchill—so cold! I have a new rider, Angelica, who came to her first show last week. It was so exciting and so fun to watch her win her first blue ribbon. Seeing the tears in her eyes really warmed my heart. On Sunday, she told me she was absolutely exhausted and didn’t know if she could even function. I told her this

Pic: Me & Moonlighting, aka Turtle I rode for the first time at the age of seven. I’m now 56, and in those years between, horses have shaped nearly every part of my life. This blog is my way of sharing the experiences, lessons, and stories I’ve gathered along the way. My hope is that riders, young trainers, and anyone who loves this industry will find something here that resonates — or at least reminds them they’re not alone in the trials and triumphs that come with this lif