Maia Barnes, the owner of Dressage Sporthorses LLC, didn’t grow up in a traditional horse environment. Growing up in the city, Maia dabbled in many different sports, but her love for horses began by chance in the fifth grade. After tagging along to a friend’s riding lesson, she became fascinated by horses. At first, her family encouraged her to focus on well, less expensive sports, but by sixth grade,...

An Interview with Samantha Kalbach of Comfort Fit Equine As equestrians we all have to play detective when it comes to our horse’s care and comfort. Each day we find ourselves trying to get to the bottom of some puzzle that our horses throw at us. Is it my saddle? Does he need hock injections? Does he have arthritis in his neck? These questions could all result in the “yes” we are looking for,...

An Interview with Stephanie Swites  Introduction to the Equine Industry: Stephanie Swites, owner and head trainer of Irish Manor Stables, started riding hunt seat at age 7. She grew in her education and experience through Pony Club and ultimately attended the University of Findlay studying English Equestrian Studies and Business Management. Upon graduating, Stephanie took a role as an assistant...

Comparison plays both a positive and negative role in one’s ability to succeed at just about anything. In the equestrian sport, unfortunately we as athletes are not only comparing ourselves with others, but our horses with one another as well. We spend countless hours improving our skills, caring for our horses, and striving for perfection. While comparison can drive motivation, it can also breed...

Photo By EPC Member, Priceless Equine Productions

An Interview with Kim Fahrion and Paula Carey of Divine Equine Massage Introduction to the Equine Industry: Each of us has a unique story about how we fell in love with horses and got our start in the equestrian industry. Kim developed her love for horses while on vacation at a dude ranch, whereas Paula always had a love for horses. While their careers kept them busy, they shared another...

You know that feeling when your head hurts, you’re low on energy, you have a million things to do and have no idea where to begin? We all do. You look around your barn or your office and wonder to yourself, “how did this mess get here?” and/or “who is responsible for this?” The mess you see is often the result of too little time, too little staff, and too much work.  Our messes can be...

An Interview with Sara Wittman of Return to Rhythm LLC It can be overwhelming for any horse owner to decide and manage which maintenance therapy is right for their horse. As equestrians we must know our options and the science behind our options to make informed decisions. Our interview with Sara Wittman of Return to Rhythm LLC features the uses and proven benefits of PEMF therapy. Introduction...

An Interview with Kim Herslow Dressage Oftentimes horse owners and riders talk about their “heart horse”, who they love, connect or enjoy riding the most. For some that is their first horse, some their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc.. Some may even call multiple horses their “heart horse”.  Let’s face it, as a horse person and animal lover we all have big hearts. Did you ever wonder what makes...

Gossip: casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true. - Oxford Dictionary We’ve all been there. As we’re cleaning the aisle or mucking a stall, we overhear people whispering about the new rider or the fancy horse that just arrived. “Ooooh, where did he come from?” “what level does she ride?” “who was...

Photo By: Stacy Lynne Equine Photography An Interview with Eileen Keller of Aeon Dressage Every person has a story to tell, a lesson to share, and the opportunity to have a lifelong impact on another. Whether you have had the chance to learn from someone personally, or read their words or experiences in an interview such as this, EPC is devoted to giving our members the chance to share their wisdom...

An Interview with Reed Nolan of Nolan Performance Horses Here at EPC, we strive to connect every equestrian and equine professional across all backgrounds and disciplines. Reed Nolan, a young horse and roping trainer, was one of EPC’s very first members, and has posted two horses for sale on our EPC Marketplace. While temporarily living and offering services in Virginia, Reed is currently in the...

The equestrian world is tough. No doubt about it. The industry is tight, expensive and opportunities are often limited geographically to one type of discipline over another.  Navigating relationships, schedules, opportunities, competitions, medical providers, all on top of working is complex!  Whether you are a rider or an equine professional full time or part time, we all know how difficult it...

It doesn’t matter your saddle or your discipline. Nor your boots nor your helmet. There is a secret that escapes many riders and yet it’s critical to their success. It is not something that professional trainers and coaches can teach you. It goes well beyond skills and technique.  You spend countless hours in pursuit of your dreams. Dreams require work and they require commitment. There are...

Photo by Crystal Young of Royal Equine An Interview with Marissa Gentner of The Distinguished Rider  One of the primary goals of The Equine Professionals Club is to unite members of the equestrian community from all backgrounds. In this article, we are proud to feature The Distinguished Rider’s founder and owner Marissa Gentner, with whom EPC also shares a mission of increasing accessibility in...