Today's Horsewoman

Lacey is the founder of The Horse Concierge, a platform built to help horse owners easily find and connect with trusted equine professionals."The idea came from my own experience navigating a 6-year complex care team for my heart horse, JD, who developed navicular disease. Trying to coordinate vets, farriers, bodyworkers, nutritionists, and other specialists across the country showed me how fragmented the industry is for horse owners. That experience ultimately led me to build The Horse Concierge."Today the platform connects horse owners with providers across 49 states in the U.S. and includes features like horse profiles, care logs, trail discovery, and a growing provider directory of almost 4k pro's. Everything is designed around one idea: helping owners build and manage a trusted care team for their horses.

Tauni Huddleston is a mustang trainer, competitor, and horsewoman based in Utah. Known for her thoughtful approach to horsemanship, Tauni focuses on building softness, trust, and communication before speed or performance. She has developed a reputation for taking on challenging horses, especially mustangs, and helping them reach their potential through patience, feel, and a deep respect for the horse.Beyond the arena, Tauni is also the owner of Yellowstone’s Casanova Guided Tours, where she combines her passion for wildlife, the outdoors, and the western lifestyle. Whether she’s training horses, competing, or guiding in the mountains, Tauni is driven by a belief that great horsemanship is about connection, humility, and continually learning from the horse.

Having her own personal horse stolen led Debi on a lifelong journey to help people whose horses are stolen to find them. Listen in to hear her amazing story.

Mary McCashin is a third generation horsewoman from Mocksville, NC. Following the footsteps of her grandfather and father, Mary practically grew up in the barn aisle with her pony, Buttercup. Growing up she did hunters, jumpers, and dabbled in eventing. Ultimately, she found her way to the Buck Brannaman/Ray Hunt style of horsemanship after horse accident in 2012. She never looked back. Mary prides herself on being “for the horse” and helping them have a voice. She also specializes in trailer loading, young horses, and problem horses.

Tania Morton has been competing in Reining, Ranch and Trail show divisions for the past 25 years with many big wins to include ARHA World Champion, APHA Reserve World Champion and most recently, NSBA World Champion at the APHA World Show! During her time in the NRHA arena she has earned over $15,000 in winnings. Tania has been training horses and teaching equestrians for the past 18 years. In addition to her success in the show ring, she is also a certified judge and enjoys judging multiple shows every year.  She operates a horse leasing program through her business, The Complete Horsemanship Program. But her biggest passion is being a Mother to her three young boys!!

In March 2020, Brittany's life took an unexpected turn when she became the caregiver of her niece and nephew, uprooting her from her simple farm life to Los Angeles amid the beginning of the pandemic. Overwhelmed with emotions and feeling out of control, she stumbled upon the healing power of horses and reconnected with these amazing equine partners - who have reminded her to set healthy boundaries and take charge of her life. Now, living on a ranch in Colorado with these wonderful creatures, she's found happiness, tranquility, and a newfound purpose to empower others on their own journey. Join her on this transformative path to self-discovery and fulfillment. Brittany believes you too, can also experience fulfillment and contentment.

A new episode with Stacy Pearsall! Stacy is the founder of tThe American Brabant Registry, a horsewoman, photographer, and host of her very own television show! You will enjoy learning more about her.

Kim Boyd hails from South Carolina. She has had horses most of her life. She fell in love with Curly Baskir horses and has ridden and partnered with her very own Curly who is called Valor. I know you will enjoy learning more about these amazing horses!

Sarah Chastain is a very talented horsewoman from Alabama. She is the owner of Bar C Farms. Sarah is a champion colt starter, and trainer. She is a contestant in this years Heart of the Horse Championship! Sarah also trains dogs along with her husband Jonathan. I know you will enjoy meeting her. 

Kristi Seymour is a licensed clinical therapist and sport performance coach for equestrians. She lives in Alaska.EquiMind  will be the first AP in the world to combine evidence based clinical tools with horse rider performance. I know you will enjoy hearing all about the new AP

Meet Rebecca Blikslager a USDF Gold medalist and USDF L graduate judge with distinction, Pilates certified instructor and experienced farm manager. 14 students in her training program have earned their USDF Bronze medals and all but two have started with her at training level. Additionally 5 have attained their USDF Silver medal status and 2 received The Century Club Award! 

 Gracie Torres has joined our lineup, she will cover horsemanship, vaquero style and more! Gracie Torres is a first generation cowgirl who has been riding since she was three years old. After years of dabbling in many disciplines Gracie has developed a love of mounted shooting, cutting, and big loop roping. She has a passion for teaching lessons to riders of all ages and practicing traditional vaquero horsemanship with her husband, Pedro. Gracie and Pedro started Cavvietta Cattle Co. in 2017 and produce a variety of events focusing on western and cowboy type events. 

 A life long lover of horses Noche has dabbled in may different disciplines. She spent her twenties starting colts and doing ranch work. After marriage and children she switched to trick training. She now teaches an online trick training course and is working on bringing her children along in their love of horses.  All of her time with horses has been spent studying their whorls which has lead to the writing of two books on whorls. Noche spends more time than she should online as she continues learning as much as she can on this never ending whorl journey. 

 Meet Ashley Sisco, the proud owner of Carolina Trailer Sales, right here in scenic North Carolina. A native to our lovely state, Ashley’s passion for horses started early on. From attending countless equestrian events to logging miles on the road with a variety of horse trailers, she’s truly lived the equestrian lifestyle.With a solid decade under her belt in the horse trailer business, Ashley’s not just about selling you a trailer. She’s here to find the perfect fit for you, ensuring top-notch customer service before and after the sale. Communication, according to her, is the heart of a good deal. Whether you’re eyeing a new horse trailer from Merhow or Kiefer or seeking a quality pre-owned trailer, Ashley’s got your back. And if you’ve got a trailer to sell, she’s open to consignments, always emphasizing cleanliness 

Learn all about the Horse Human Research Foundation. It is a great organization and I know you will enjoy this.

Join us as we talk with Melissa Deal, Meet Melissa Spell Deal — a lifelong equestrian and founder of Compassionate Horse Click,where she helps horses and their humans communicate with kindness, confidence, and joy. Her work centers on creating relationships rooted in trust and understanding, so both partners feel confident, connected, and optimistic.A Certified Connection Training Coach, graduate of Shawna Karrasch mastery course Sante Fe, and a Recognized Compassionate Equestrian facility owner, Melissa has also spent 25 years as a certified instructor with the American Riding Instructor Association in Dressage, HuntSeat, and Western Equitation. Along the way, she earned her USDF Bronze Medal, adding to her decades of experience training, teaching, and supporting equestrians of all backgrounds.In recent years, Melissa has devoted her focus to the science and art of connection—studying with renowned behavioral experts such as Ken Ramirez and Justine Harrison. She shares herinsights as a speaker at international equine-behavior conferences and most recently through her work supporting a local mustang sanctuary. Her approach resonates deeply with both horses and humans: simple, effective, positive principles that restore optimism, deepen understanding, and build lasting trust. Melissa believes wholeheartedly in compassion-driventraining that transforms not only behavior, but the emotional well-being of both horse and handler.Melissa’s home base is her farm in Burgaw, North Carolina, where she coaches in person and online, offering live immersive clinics, online courses, and community experiences that bring these concepts to equestrians worldwide. Her own horse, Eclipse—once labeled “dangerous”and surrendered as a behavior problem—is now her greatest teacher and living proof that compassion, consent, and clear communication can change everything. 💙

 Carey Stewart, has dedicated her life to the education and empowerment of youth through equine science and agriculture. With a Master’s degree in Equine Education from William Woods University, a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Industry with a minor in Animal Science from West Texas A&M University, and an Associate’s degree in Equine Technology from Martin Community College, her academic journey has been shaped by a deep passion for horses, agriculture, and lifelong learning.Currently, she serves as the 4-H Agent in Cleveland County, where she lead two vibrant and growing clubs: the Livestock Club and the Equine Club. In addition to these core program she has had the joy of organizing and running spin clubs and day camps that cover a wide variety of topics—from honeybees and wildlife to healthy living and environmental science. Her goal is always to spark curiosity and foster hands-on learning in the youth I serve.Prior to her work with 4-H, she was fortunate to teach in the Equine programs at both Johnson & Wales University and Martin Community College. These roles allowed me to share my knowledge and experience with students pursuing careers in the equine industry, and they remain two of the most rewarding chapters in her professional life.She has also held her Open Show Judge’s card, which has given her the opportunity to judge horse shows across North Carolina, into Virginia, and down into South Carolina. One of the most meaningful events she has had the privilege to judge was the South Carolina Equine Special Olympics. The athletes’ dedication and joy remind me why she does what she does —it’s about heart, hard work, and celebrating each step of the journey.Her roots in equine education trace back to summer camps, where she started as a stable hand at the age of 12 and eventually became the director of the program in her 20s. Camps hold a special place in her heart, as they often introduce children to horses for the first time. Watching a child fall in love with a horse—sometimes timidly, sometimes instantly—is a powerful reminder of how transformative these moments can be.Throughout her career, she has come to understand that her role in the horse world isn’t to be the most decorated rider or trainer. Instead, her calling is to educate, inspire, and support the next generation. "My purpose is to help young people build strong foundations—through horsemanship, responsibility, and self-confidence—so they can grow into leaders, dreamers, and achievers in whatever path they choose", Stewart told us.

Rebecca May Is an amazing horse trainer and judge. She also is a tough competitor in the equestrian world. I think you will enjoy meeting her.

Shannon Hoffman provides coaching and training for equine owners to develop handy well-rounded equines, who are confident and willing partners, while applying safe horsemanship practices and stewardship.  She works primarily with donkeys and mules. I know you will enjoy learning about her and her farm.  For more go to www.St.ClaireEquine.com

As the year turned to begin again, the Rodeo Royalty's reign has ended. I sat down with them and we talked about lessons learned, legacies left behind and future.

The NC Rodeo Queens reign for 2024 has come to an end. I took time to speak with the girls to see things they have learned.

Sandra Beaulieu has to be the most artistic horsewoman I have ever had the pleasure of meeting! She is so creative with everything from painting on horseback, glamorous photo shoots to her books. I know you will enjoy getting better acquainted with this amazing woman!

Sher Gillespie is the area's first and ONLY Certified United States Hunter Jumper Association Trainers. Her training program includes Dressage and general horsemanship. Sher shares her standards of excellence and safety in every phase of her program.  I know you will enjoy getting to know her.

Heather King has 35+ years of horse experience in a variety of disciplines, including hunters, jumpers, dressage, eventing, western, english pleasure, saddleseat and carriage driving.  She is currently bringing her young horse Gia up the levels in eventing.  She trains horses and teaches lessons at her farm in Knightdale, NC.  Castle Farm, "Home of all the King's Horses", is very inclusive and welcomes all types of horses and people.  Heather has a BS degree in Animal Science from NC State, with a minor in Nutrition.  She has also received numerous state and national awards with the horses she competes on.  Besides horses, she has a passion for music and cats.  You can reach her at [email protected], or www.castlefarmhorses.com, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/heather.m.king.31

Julia has been certified in the trust technique used in horsemanship! I know you will enjoy learning more about Julia and this valuable technique! 

Jackie Turnbull is a multi talented horsewoman. She is a gifted Clinician, Judge and produces The Great American Trail Horse Sale.  The sale has grown into one of the premier horse shows and sales in the country! I know you will enjoy getting to know her.

Lori Tankel is a horsewoman, barn owner, instructor and author from the Florida area. She has years of experience showing, teaching and with the pony club. I know you will enjoy getting to know Lori!

Meet Mechelle Lawson of New River Vanners. Mechelle raises these beautiful horses in the quaint area of Sparta, North Carolina in the mountains. She stands two beautiful stallions and I know you will enjoy getting to know all about her program. 

Meet Malaika Albrecht, horsewoman. 

Stephanie Davis, Equestrian

Located in Maryland’s beautiful Middletown Valley, Katie Wherley Equestrian provides top-notch care and training for you and your horse. For over twenty years, an Advanced-level eventer and a graduate ‘A’ Pony Clubber Katie Wherley has helped horses and riders find their path, from the lower to upper levels in eventing, jumpers, hunters and dressage. Offering rider instruction, horse training, and rehabilitation services on a case-by-case basis, Katie is dedicated to supporting horses and riders as they find their stride in both pleasure and sport.

I know you will enjoy catching up with Lynn Palm. She is a multiple time champion in so many equestrian disciplines that I have lost count! She is very active in the Western Dressage world currently and is giving Clinics around the globe. She also has a new book coming out. Lynn has been a professional since 1970. She discovered dressage early on and used classical principles to develop all around show horses. While reaching the pinnacle of competition, she coached riders and entertained crowds with bridleless musical exhibitions. Always an educator, Lynn continues to serve on committees and advisory boards as well as judge and author books and articles for equine enthusiasts.I have been blessed to travel the world meeting new people, all thanks to horses. Spending time with those who share my passion for horses is what I enjoy and look forward to for years to come.

Skyeler Voss is an eventer and founder of Morningside Farm.

Pam Sauls, Horsewoman

Katherine Rizzo is a gifted horsewoman, accounting and business management specialist. She is part of Mythic Landing Equestrian Business Services. Get some great tips and learn more about this gifted woman.

Kelly Williams is an amazing 3 day eventing woman. Kelley is an advanced level eventer whose passion for horses began at young age while taking riding lessons at summer camp. Pat, having loved horses from the time she was a child, saw an opportunity to fulfill her childhood dreams and decided that mother-daughter riding lessons might be fun.  And the rest, as they say, is history.After graduating from St. Mary’s College with a degree in Mathematics, Kelley began working for Dr. Will Engel of Ridgeview Veterinary Practice (large animal veterinarian).  Working at the practice has helped fine-tune her horsemanship skills over the years.  In addition, Kelley continued with her riding and competing, and soon found a love of retraining young horses off the track and teaching students.  That, coupled with her passion for eventing, led to her current career as trainer for A Bit Better Farm.

Stephanie is the founder of a Heart for Horses as well as Mississippi Horse Rescue

Brett Shear-Heyman, Horsewoman Brett is active in the sales community and enjoys developing horses into competitors. She takes pride in finding each client their perfect horse and will guide clients through the buying process. The very first step to success in the sport is a proper pairing and Brett stays connected to her network of professionals around the country to source the best inventory of horses for anyone on the hunt.Brett believes in constant education within the sport. She continues to cultivate skills and experiences by regularly working with other professionals to both train horses in her program as well as collaborate to learn new techniques to share with her clients. She is devoted and detailed  For more information go to https://pennyleighllc.com/

Amanda Getto is a horsewoman and large animal veterinarian who saw a need for a product that would distribute hay automatically at given times of the day to help horses who are prone to ulcers. Her company Jigs and Co. now has that product available. Listen for more!

Margaret is an accomplished three day eventer. She is also the founder of Mythic Landing Enterprises, a business that formed to help professional horse industry people conduct and promote their business. I know you will enjoy listening to her.

Julie Seal is the coordinator for Heart for Horses through the Mississippi Horses rescue. She is an avid horsewoman and event producer. I  know you will enjoy learning more about her. 

After 32 wonderful years as a criminal defense attorney, Kim has transitioned into the field of Equine Facilitated Experiential Learning. In short, Kim leads horse retreats & seminars, des team building and private coaching- all involving experiential work with the horses. Retreats and equine work is held at her gorgeous Imagine Equus Farm in Western North Carolina. While Kim leads all types of retreats, she is also offering special retreats for attorneys.

Editorial and marketing professional with a focus on animal health, creating content alongside experts to further wellness for horses, livestock and pets.A 2022 AHP Equine Media NextGen Award co-recipient.Avid pet and equine adoption advocate -- local humane society Board President, volunteer and foster. Prior to working in animal health, held positions within magazine editorial and print manufacturing/publishing industries.

 In 2010, Dana accepted the position of Assistant Equestrian Director at The Fork Stables. Following the 2012 London Olympic Games, Dana returned to The Fork to continue building her competitive riding and training career and accepted the position of Equestrian Director/Resident Trainer.Dana has successfully competed through the 4* level in eventing and was a member of the Canadian Bronze Medal team at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru.  She now has her sights on the 2022 World Equestrian Games in Italy and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. She is an “A” level Pony Club graduate as well as an Equestrian Canada Level 1 Certified Coach.  Dana now resides at Kingfisher Park Equestrian as their Director of Equestrian Activities. Situated on 200 rolling acres of farmland just a 40 minute drive from Charlotte, North Carolina in Mooresville, KFP offers an idyllic setting for equestrian sports with many services including boarding, training, lessons, sales, and cross country schooling.  

Amy is the CEO for Hassinger Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation she also owns and shows a collection of horses in various disciplines.  I think you will enjoy getting to know this tremendous horsewoman and brilliant business woman.

Shannon Woolfe

Rebecca Husted is one of the world's leading large animal rescue experts.  She has 25+ years Instructing, now sole owner of Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, Inc. - all aspects of Large Animal Disaster and Emergency Preparedness; 28 years of Military Experience including active duty mobilizations (Ft. Bragg) and combat deployments (Iraq & Kuwait); 22 years freelance writing experience; 20 years management and corporate experience running small businesses (Equine/Bovine Ltd. and TLAER, Inc.); completing my Georgia Certificate of Emergency Management. I know you will enjoy knowing more about this fascinating woman.

Zoe Crawford horsewoman. 

Equine journalist and horsewoman Tori Repole. Winner of the American Horse Publications award for Next Generation Award 

Rachel Gagliardi is an amazing horsewoman. She is currently serving as Miss Rodeo North Carolina, horsewoman, Veterinary Student studying for a double masters! What a talented brilliant young woman. I know you will enjoy learning more about Rachel.