HoofNit™ Podcast

Join in on this episode as Jana interviews Melissa Cowan about Living Life Ranch. Melissa provides updates on Living Life Ranch and all the activities they are involved in these days.

Join Lynn Thomas and Tyler Brklacich from Horses for Mental Health as they prepare to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Their incredible team is dedicated to enhancing the impact of horses on mental health and personal development. They have developed a program to support Non Profits nationwide. Be a part of their conversation about the upcoming Seen Through Horses Campaign.

It is not what you do for your children, but what you teach them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings ~ Ann Landers Inspired by this quote, Tiffany created "Tails of Transformation," a program tailored for her community. Young individuals, particularly teenagers, greatly benefit from acquiring life skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, confidence, as well as social and emotional development, mental health awareness, and wellness. Involvement in activities with horses can help children excel in these areas and more. The current generation faces a unique challenge due to technology's instant accessibility, which poses obstacles for youth in critical thinking and problem-solving. By engaging in outdoor and social activities, we can assist our children in developing vital skills crucial for their future. Combining her love for horses and mental health, Tiffany practices equine therapy, customizing methods to individual requirements. She strives to make mental health services inclusive to all, demonstrating openness, authenticity, and adaptability in her approach. Through TAILS, the community can partner with horses to improve themselves, regardless of income, ability, or age, with a focus on expanding program options and catering to participants' specific needs.

"What's in a Name?" Soul to Sole Connection is committed to supporting our Brave Veterans, active duty personnel, first responders, and their families. During the interview, Katie shares her deep admiration for veterans and other life protectors she assists, along with their families. She expresses her enthusiasm for working with both horses and humans, highlighting the many services her program provides for clients. A complete array of resources and tools is available to aid in the healing process for those in need. By offering a complete array of resources and tools, they can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our safety and well-being.

Teresa Fletcher is the Executive Director of Pegasus TRA. With dual degrees in equine science and psychology, she leads innovative programs and initiatives, cares for the horses, and oversees community programs. Teresa is certified in therapeutic riding instruction and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, and is an adjunct professor at Delaware Valley University. She may have a busy schedule, but she takes time for helping others. In this interview she shares her story and a very touching experience she has had while working to help humans at Pegasus Riding Academy. Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy in Philadelphia offers therapeutic horseback riding programs and equine-assisted services for individuals with disabilities and those in at-risk populations. They provide over 100 lessons weekly to improve physical and emotional well-being. The academy offers specialized programs and aims to establish excellence in Equine Assisted Services.

Meet Jake LaRue, a veteran who spends his time working with wild mustangs and helping fellow veterans. Jake shares his personal story and explains why he chose wild mustangs as partners in his program, A Man with A Horse Project. As a Marine veteran, Jake shares the therapeutic effects of horses with other veterans who face similar struggles to the ones he has overcome.

Rachael is the founder of two equine-assisted learning programs in Wisconsin, UP THERE and Operation Horses Heal. UP THERE is an acronym for United Partners Through Human Equine Relationship Experience, and the team consists of people, horses, and dogs who work together to help clients achieve personal goals and build better relationships. Operation Horses Heal provides therapy with horses for veterans and active service members to find relaxation and peace. Join us to hear more about Rachael’s organizations.

Marcy Tocker is a certified professional counselor who founded Grey Muzzle Manor Sanctuary, Inc. which offers Animal Assisted Psychotherapy. Horses are used because they are social and have an extraordinary ability to read nonverbal communication. The organization offers counseling services, group therapy, support groups, and corporate training they have several programs. Grey Muzzle Manor is committed to changing lives of both humans and animals. Join us as Marcy shares her heart and the experiences that she has had along the way.

Healing Strides of Virginia is a facility that provides a unique approach to Equine Therapy. They have been providing this service to the community for over 30 years. Equine Therapy is a form of therapy that uses horses to help individuals with a variety of mental, physical, and emotional challenges. Carol Young, the CEO of Healing Strides, shares her journey to the program and how it has grown to what it is today. She shares heartwarming experiences of how Equine Therapy has helped individuals in their personal growth and development. With the help of staff members, volunteers, and their herd of 28 equines, they are able to offer several services to the community. They have partnered with several certification programs and offer training to those interested in Equine Therapy opportunities. In October of 2024, they have a large event coming up that you won't want to miss. It's a wonderful cause that is making a significant impact on the lives of many individuals.

Meet Meg Hill - a jack-of-all-trades with a heart for horses. After graduating from St. Edward's University, Austin, TX with a degree in Art and Education, Meg has spent 40 years riding horses in all styles - English, Western, and even Sidesaddle! With a lifetime of personal experience, Meg has always known the magic of horses, and recognized their therapeutic power from a young age. Settling in North Carolina for the past two decades, Meg saw a need for equine-assisted services in her community, inspiring her to create Asheville Equine Therapy Inc. As a center member, they provide equine-assisted services and beginner riding lessons, driven by their goal to enhance lives for all. Their services cater to people with disabilities, special needs, PTSD, and trauma through equine-assisted services, adaptive/therapeutic riding, and horsemanship. Meg and her team strive to build true friendships and make a positive impact on all who cross their path with the help of these majestic creatures.

This Del Shields recommendation holds a unique significance. Katherine, with her devotion to God and attentiveness to His guidance, contributes to the exceptional nature of this recommendation. Angel Reins Stable, a sanctuary for both humans and animals, embodies rescue, love, and tranquility. Katherine graciously imparts her personal narrative about this extraordinary program, which aids survivors of human trafficking and veterans. The rescue horses undergo a process of restoration and repurposing, enabling them to leave their painful pasts behind and embark on a journey of healing. We invite you to join Katherine as she shares her heartfelt experiences and everlasting memories.

Kristen Marcus Executive Director, a passionate advocate for CHAPS, shares her story and the programs available to the public. These programs include Adaptive Carriage Driving, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning, and are designed to cater to individuals, groups of veterans, Pre-K children, and aged community members. One of the benefits of human-horse interaction is its ability to provide both physical and mental-emotional benefits. Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions work to reduce emotional reactivity, anxiety, depression, and improve coping, relationship and communication skills. CHAPS' professional staff and volunteers work closely with clients to ensure safe lessons and increase confidence, while every effort is made to ensure the safety of the client, horse, volunteers and staff. CHAPS' instructors have a strong equine background, as well as an understanding of various disabilities, and each staff member earns a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education per year. The staff is comprised of outstanding individuals with a heart to help people, and they are committed to changing lives through therapeutic horsemanship.

Find your Freedom with Freedom Equine's unique experience. Simone tells us about her journey towards working with Horses at Freedom Equine Association's programs. They offer Equine Assisted Learning, Therapeutic Riding and Boutique Trail rides for an intimate exploration and adventure on horse back. The dedicated team at Freedom Equine make a difference in lives of those that come to their facility for help.

MG Tidwell and Justine Daniels have quite a program to share. Their goal is Providing hope and improving the lives of those with physical, mental, and emotional challenges through equine-assisted services. They have a large facility in Texas. MG and Justine share how they use horses for mental health and the other programs they offer. Listen to how many volunteers they have Wow!

Del Shields a well known musician who wears many hats, Join us with this Podcast as we talk about Del's journey with singing and poetry then his travels with Best of America on Horseback. He talks about his travels around the country, showcasing trail riding locations and meeting interesting people along the way. Scheduling historic rides at locations that create lasting memories.

Meet the two people that make Rock Ranch so special. Together they created a Faith based place to help people heal in so many ways. Rock Ranch is a non profit that has several programs designed in a welcoming environment. We hope you enjoy meeting them through this interview and learning about their Ranch.

HoofNit with Lynn and Tyler from Horses for Mental Health. Tyler and Lynn join us for another interview to share the Seen through Horses Campaign results. 2023 was a great success join us as Tyler and Lynn go through the stats and what is coming.

HoofNit with Sarah Douglas, she is General Manager, certified in Equine Facilitated Learning a Level 1 Practitioner for the program at “A Different View Equine Center”. If you Are you are active duty military, a veteran, 1st responder, or family member. This program is for you. In this interview Sarah shares her journey that led her to this program. Her passion and experience working with clients and horses for healing mental health. #hoofnitpodcast @hoofnitpodcast #horsesforhealinginc @horsesforhealinginc

Caitlin Erickson, who recently accepted the position of Executive Director of Horses For Healing Inc. Caitlin shares her journey with us of how she has been with “Horses For healing” from the beginning. Growing up with a parents with careers as a Veterinarian and a horse trainer, her love for horses turned into a career that she never dreamed of. Helping people heal in this unique program. #hoofnitpodcast @hoofnitpodcast #horsesforhealinginc @horsesforhealinginc