Coach Kristi

Home
Coach Kristi

Coach Kristi Developing a horse lovers lifestyle and helping others to do the same through horsemanship education and real estate.

25/02/2025

We have many gifts—extraordinary gifts.

Gifts of perception, insight, and feel.

Gifts of intuition, timing, and awareness.

But there is one, just one, that while often overlooked is the most profound of all—shaping our experience with horses and unlocking possibilities beyond imagination.

It is, of course, the ability to think for ourselves. To focus. To see your horsemanship however you choose… and to experience it accordingly.

24/02/2025

We have entered a mud stage. Let’s hope it is the only one. There is definitely time for winter to return. But the 10 day forecast looks good!

22/02/2025

My horsemanship is deeply intertwined with my life’s experiences. Horses have been my way of processing challenges, making sense of my past, and understanding who I am and want to be. They have given me clarity in ways I never expected, revealing truths I once felt I had to keep hidden. Horsemanship is the filter by which I process the quality of my life as well as the quality of what I am able to offer to others.

For much of my life, I was expected to keep secrets. As a child, I learned that silence was survival. We never spoke of the neglect or violence at home. I was told that no one cared, that speaking up would only make things worse. As an adult, I found myself in another familiar pattern—holding the secrets of a mentor whose behavior was abusive. In the horse industry, daily verbal assault is often seen as normal. We were told that we needed to learn to not be so sensitive. So, again, we don’t speak about it.

But horses don’t live in silence. My horses have always been more than happy to let me know when I am falling short. They don’t pretend, and they don’t ignore energy that doesn’t match intent. They are masters of reading between the lines, of seeing what is real beneath the surface. Through them, I learned that just because I once tolerated neglect and abuse doesn’t mean I have to continue that pattern. And that just because someone else uses those tactics does n’t mean I need to do the same. I have the right to choose the kind of leadership I follow and offer, the kind of mentors I seek and become, and the kind of relationships I nurture.

I will never again accept guidance from someone who is unkind, demeaning, or belittling with their words or actions—whether to people or to horses. It is nearly impossible to learn when we are feeling under attack. I didn’t always know I had the power to set those boundaries. But now that I do, I choose differently. That doesn’t mean I won’t give people the benefit of the doubt, or hope for growth, but when someone shows me who I am to them, I believe them. When my horses show me who I am to them, I work on doing better if that is what they show me.

I am responsible for my learning and my readiness to learn, but that does not mean that I need to learn to tolerate abusive behavior. Learning is often difficult. I need a mentor who knows the difference between encouraging their people to work hard for extraordinary results and just belittling or demeaning someone. Saying the same thing over and over, louder and louder is not a teaching tactic. It is a sign of a lack of ability to teach. I don’t need to be coddled. I expect difficulty. I just don’t expect to be put down or shamed for not knowing something that I clearly asked for help with.

Horses have taught me to trust what I feel. To listen to the truth behind the words. To stop trying to reshape myself to fit into places that were never meant for me. And that is exactly what I want to offer to others through my horsemanship coaching—a place where you and your horse can grow together without fear, without judgment, and without the pressure to conform to outdated, harmful norms, but to also embrace the messy bits and seek excellence even though it is challenging.

If you’re looking for guidance that prioritizes connection, clarity, and support—for both you and your horse—I would love to help. Horsemanship should be about partnership, not dominance. It should feel good for both of you, even if it is sometimes difficult. If that resonates with you, let’s work together to create the relationship you and your horse deserve.

I know that I have and will make mistakes in my efforts to be a horsemanship coach and partner for my horses. Part of the journey is learning to reflect and take responsibility, even when it is unpleasant to do so. Mistakes are a part of learning only if you are willing to be accountable for them. As I know better, I try my best to do better. And I’d love to help you do the same.

18/02/2025

🌿 Horse Psychology Course – April 25-27, 2025 🌿
Whispering Woods Haven – Hamilton, Iowa

Horses are always honest in their communication, but do we truly understand what they’re telling us? The Horse Psychology Course is designed to help you see the world through your horse’s eyes, so you can create a partnership built on trust, clarity, and mutual understanding.

This 3-day immersive experience is part of my intimate summer series, where I work alongside you, sharing what I’ve learned through my own journey of studying horsemanship for 30 years. With only 3 participants, you’ll receive personalized coaching in a relaxed and supportive setting.

What You’ll Gain:

✅ A Deeper Connection – Learn to read your horse’s subtle cues, emotions, and thought processes to build a relationship based on mutual trust.
✅ More Effective Communication – Discover how your energy, body language, and intent influence your horse and how to refine your approach.
✅ Practical Problem-Solving Skills – Understand what motivates your horse’s behavior and how to guide them toward better choices without force or frustration.

Each day will include theory, simulations, hands-on experience, and demonstrations with both my horses and yours, so you can see these concepts in action before practicing them yourself.

🏕️ On-site camping is available for those who want to stay immersed in the experience.

📧 Spots are limited! Reserve yours today: [email protected]

If you’re ready to truly understand your horse and create a partnership that feels effortless, this course is for you. Let’s take this journey together! 💛

17/02/2025

Perfectionism vs. Excellence in Horsemanship

Perfectionism makes us focus on how things look, seek external approval, and fear mistakes. It creates tension, frustration, and a rigid mindset that makes progress feel impossible.

Excellence, on the other hand, is about how things feel. It values growth over approval, curiosity over control, and connection over mechanics. It allows us to learn from mistakes, adapt to the horse in the moment, and celebrate progress—no matter how small.

When we fixate on perfection, we risk missing what our horse is trying to tell us. They’re not being difficult for the sake of arguing—they’re communicating. A brace, a hesitation, or a misunderstanding isn’t defiance; it’s feedback. Instead of taking it personally, we can ask: What is my horse telling me? What can I do to help?

Let go of perfection. Seek excellence. Listen to your horse. That’s where true progress begins.

09/02/2025

💡 Imagine having a dedicated mentor in your pocket, helping you and your horse every step of the way! 💡

Horsemanship can feel like a lonely journey sometimes—but it doesn’t have to be. I offer full-time, long-distance mentorship to support you and your horse in a way that’s personal, consistent, and deeply rewarding.

✅ Regular video exchanges so I can give you feedback and guidance tailored to you and your horse
✅ An exclusive Facebook group where we share our wins, challenges, and insights—building a supportive community
✅ Content designed to support my advice—so you understand not just what to do, but why it works
✅ Twice-monthly live Zoom calls for deeper discussions, troubleshooting, and celebrating progress together

The truth is, everyone needs a mentor. I have Linda. Linda has mentors. Learning is for life. The key is finding someone you feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable with—someone who challenges you, supports you, and helps you grow. That’s what I want to be for you.

This isn’t just about learning—it’s about growing, connecting, and having fun with your horse in a way that feels good to both of you. If you’ve been looking for a mentor who truly cares and a community that lifts you up, I’d love to have you join us!

💬 Drop a comment or DM me if you’re interested—I’d love to hear about you and your horse!

04/02/2025

Join me for Pathways to Harmony—a unique horsemanship experience designed to deepen connection, refine communication, and create a willing, responsive partner. Through groundwork, riding, and liberty, you’ll learn the key ingredients of harmony: trust, clarity, and choice. No matter where you are in your journey, these courses will help you and your horse move together with confidence and ease.

✨ Custom-tailored courses for all levels
✨ Develop feel, timing, and responsiveness
✨ Build a partnership based on trust and understanding

Ready to take the next step? Let’s create something amazing together!

27/01/2025

Is Your Horse Trying to Tell You Something?

Resistance isn’t defiance—it’s communication. When your horse balks, spooks, or shuts down, they’re sending you a message: something doesn’t feel right. It could be confusion, a lack of trust in your leadership, or even physical discomfort like ulcers, saddle fit issues, or imbalanced feet.

True harmony with your horse begins with understanding their mental, emotional, and physical needs. When we put their needs ahead of our goals, they become willing, joyful partners. But this requires empathy, clarity, and self-awareness—qualities we can all develop with the right guidance.

If you’re tired of frustration and ready to build a deeper connection with your horse, I’d love to help you. Together, we’ll work on reading your horse’s messages, building trust, and creating a partnership that feels good to both of you.

Let’s unlock the magic of harmony—because your horse deserves it, and so do you.

Message me to learn more about coaching or my OnLine Protégé program!

19/01/2025

🌟 2025 Horsemanship Courses at Whispering Woods Haven 🌟

If you’ve ever felt the pull to create something truly special with your horse—a connection built on trust, empathy, and joy—I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’ve walked this road too. Over the past 30 years, I’ve faced the same struggles and questions, and I’ve discovered that success isn’t about talent—it’s about building skills, staying curious, and embracing the journey.

This summer, I’m opening my home, Whispering Woods Haven, for a series of intimate, 3-day courses designed to help you and your horse grow together. Each course is crafted to provide practical tools, deep insights, and a supportive environment where you’ll feel seen, understood, and encouraged.

📅 Course Schedule:
• Horse Psychology Course: April 25-27 (Spots Available!)
Learn to truly understand your horse’s mind, so you can connect on a deeper level. We’ll explore how horses think and feel, how to interpret their subtle cues, and how to create a partnership that honors both your needs and theirs. This course is the foundation for everything else we do with our horses.
• Obstacle Training Course: June 20-22 (This course is now full!)
(Thank you to everyone who signed up—I’m so excited to work with you!)
• Trail Ride Training Course: September 19-21 (Spots Available!)
Discover how to transform trail riding into a relaxed, joyful experience. Together, we’ll build your horse’s confidence on the trail, develop safe strategies for navigating challenges, and focus on creating calm, connected adventures.

Each course is limited to 3 participants, so I can offer you the individualized support you and your horse deserve. My goal as your coach is to meet you where you are, share what I’ve learned, and walk this journey alongside you. You’ll leave with tools, insights, and the confidence to take your horsemanship to the next level.

👥 Limited Spots Available
📧 Reserve your spot today: [email protected]

Wherever you are in your horsemanship journey, know that you’re capable of more than you think. Let’s take the next steps together.

19/01/2025

Building trust, one gentle moment at a time. Kaya’s spunky spirit keeps me on my toes and reminds me that connection, comfort, and choice are the heart of horsemanship. Grateful for her sass and softness as we continue this beautiful journey together. ❤️

12/01/2025

🌟 2025 Horsemanship Courses at Whispering Woods Haven 🌟

Join me at Whispering Woods Haven in Hamilton, Iowa, for an unforgettable series of exclusive 3-day courses designed to deepen your connection with your horse, build trust, and enhance your skills. With only 3 participants per course, you’ll receive highly personalized guidance in a serene, supportive setting.

📅 Course Schedule:
• Horse Psychology Course: April 25-27 – Understand your horse’s mind and build a foundation of trust and connection.
• Obstacle Training Course: June 20-22 – Strengthen your horse’s confidence and communication through creative challenges.
• Trail Riding Training Course: September 19-21 – Develop the skills to enjoy safe, confident, and fun adventures on the trail.

👥 Limited Spots Available!
📧 Reserve your spot today: [email protected]

These courses are perfect for anyone looking to create a deeper partnership with their horse. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun!

06/01/2025

Sometimes, relief comes not from fighting against reality, but from accepting it. Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up on your goals or stopping the work that moves you forward. It means recognizing when the best thing you can do is to pause, even if it’s uncomfortable.

This past week, I’ve been sick with a virus. Cabin fever is setting in, and I feel the itch to move, to do, to be out in the world. I want to ride my horses. I want to go to my workout class. I want to walk my dogs through the healing woods I love so much. But right now, my body needs rest. My horses don’t need to be worked in this weather, and the mess in the arena will wait for better conditions.

Accepting this reality doesn’t mean I have to like it. It simply means recognizing what’s outside my control and shifting my energy toward what I can influence—my own healing. By letting go of resistance to the “sucky parts,” I can free up the energy that would have been wasted on frustration or guilt.

There’s power in knowing when to let go and when to hold on. Sometimes, acceptance is the most productive thing we can do—not forever, but for now. And while I might not like it, I know it’s okay to feel that, too.

25/12/2024

Merry Christmas from Me and My Mares 🎄🐴This season, I’m reflecting on the incredible gifts these four beautiful mares have brought into my life—not wrapped in shiny paper but in lessons of trust, patience, and connection. They remind me daily of the magic of presence, the joy of partnership, and the importance of giving without expectation.

As we celebrate this season of giving, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share moments of harmony, understanding, and growth with them. Horses truly are some of the best gifts we can ever receive.

Wishing you and your herd a holiday filled with peace, joy, and the warmth of connection. Merry Christmas!

18/12/2024

Living with animals bred for specific purposes is an incredible experience—they come with instincts and abilities that are fascinating, but they also serve as a constant reminder of their nature. Yesterday, I had a brief but impactful moment with my well-bred cow horse, Kaya, and my Cowboy Corgi, Sheila, that highlighted the importance of respecting their instincts.

While walking Sheila, I lost focus for just a moment while we were in Kaya’s pasture. What started as a curious and seemingly adorable interaction quickly escalated. Kaya’s cow horse instincts woke up, and before I knew it, she had a go at Sheila. Almost instantly, Sheila’s working dog instincts kicked in, and she decided to stand her ground. It was a brief but chaotic moment—two animals bred to track, move, and control suddenly acting out what they were born to do.

Luckily, no one was hurt, and Sheila eventually realized she was in over her head and scampered out of the pasture. But it was a vivid reminder of how important it is to stay mindful of what our animals are telling us, both through their body language and through their instincts.

Our animals are incredible partners, but they’re also products of their nature and breeding. While we can train them and guide their behaviors, their instincts are always there, waiting to emerge. It’s a responsibility to keep that in mind and respect who they are at their core.

From now on, I’ll be extra diligent to ensure everyone’s safety. And I’ll also cherish this reminder to never underestimate the beauty and power of what makes each animal unique.

13/12/2024

Today, on the Day of the Horse, I want to honor two incredible mares who have profoundly shaped my life.

First, Maxi, my partner of nearly 24 years. She has been with me her entire life, and in that time, she has become my most influential teacher and steadfast guide. Maxi has taught me the value of strength, resilience, and unwavering determination. Through every challenge and triumph, she has been a constant reminder of the power of perseverance and the beauty of connection. Maxi, you are a treasure, and I am endlessly grateful for the journey we’ve shared.

Second, Saturi. It’s been nearly three years since I had to say goodbye, and not a day passes that I don’t miss her presence. Saturi had a way of reaching into the deepest corners of my heart and helping me heal parts of myself no one else could touch. She taught me lessons in compassion, vulnerability, and the courage to let go. Though she’s no longer by my side, her spirit continues to guide me, and her memory is woven into the fabric of my life.

To Maxi and Saturi—thank you for the love, lessons, and unforgettable moments. I am who I am because of you.

Who are you honoring today, on this Day of the Horse?

27/11/2024

Winter can be tough on us horse lovers. The cold, the shorter days, and the challenges of keeping ourselves and our horses motivated can sap the energy and enthusiasm we feel during the warm, sunny months. But even when our spirits are low, it’s important to remember that doing something is always better than doing nothing.

For both us and our horses, connection, relaxation, and responsiveness in motion are like medicine for the soul. It doesn’t have to be grand or perfect—sometimes, the smallest moments can make the biggest difference.

Maybe it’s just spending time grooming, taking a short walk together, or playing a simple liberty game in the barn. These moments matter. They keep the partnership alive and growing, even when winter’s chill makes it feel like progress is frozen in time.

On days when motivation feels far away, remind yourself that it’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing something. Your horse doesn’t expect perfection; they value presence. And more often than not, those small efforts to connect will not only lift their spirits but yours too.

So bundle up, breathe in the crisp air, and let the magic of your partnership bring a little warmth back into your winter days. The effort you make now will pave the way for stronger bonds and brighter rides when the sun returns.

Keep going. You’re doing better than you think.

22/11/2024

Back in the arena with my Vannah girl—what a gift it is to spend time with her again. Grateful for every moment of connection and the joy she brings to my journey. 💙

18/11/2024

ROI in Horsemanship: Is It Worth It?

As I sit here in the Dallas airport, waiting for my final flight home from this year’s trek to Australia, I’m reflecting on the concept of ROI—Return on Investment—and how it applies to horsemanship, and to life.

For me, most of what I’ve designed my life around comes back to this question: Is this hard thing leading to something special or at least worth it?

It’s not that I avoid hard things—far from it. I embrace them when they serve a purpose, when the effort is for a good reason. And this trip was a perfect example of why it’s worth investing in what matters.

Traveling to Australia is no small feat. The journey is long and grueling, and I’m sitting here blurry-eyed with exhaustion. But my heart is full, and my spirit is satisfied. The ROI on sharing the How To Talk Horse program with passionate horse people is exceptional. Seeing the lightbulb moments, the connection, and the joy it brings to others makes every mile, every hour, every ounce of effort feel meaningful.

In horsemanship, ROI is about more than just progress; it’s about the experiences, the relationships, and the moments that make the journey worthwhile. It’s about asking:
• Is this investment—of time, energy, and patience—building something special?
• Are my efforts helping my horse feel more connected, confident, and comfortable with me?
• Am I growing into the kind of leader my horse wants to follow?

Yes, the hard work can be exhausting. Yes, there will be moments where the challenges feel heavy. But when those efforts lead to something beautiful—a deeper partnership, a joyful ride, or an opportunity to make a difference—it’s all worth it.

As I reflect on this year’s journey, I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the chance to share this program, for the people I met, and for the horses who continue to remind me why I do what I do.

So as you evaluate your own investments—in horsemanship or in life—ask yourself, Is this leading to something special? If the answer is yes, lean in. Embrace the hard things, because they’re often the ones that matter most.

The ROI is worth it.

Address

Website

http://www.thecoachkristi.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Coach Kristi posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Coach Kristi:

Shortcuts

Address
Alerts
Contact The Business
Claim ownership or report listing
Want your business to be the top-listed Pet Store/pet Service?

Country:

City:

Horsemanship Is For Everyone!

I have loved horses my entire life and have always wanted to understand them and have interesting and dynamic interactions with them. It can be difficult to learn how to do that unless you happen to live in a location that has someone to learn from. I grew up and continue to live in the cornfields of rural Iowa. There are not a lot of great horsemen in my area unless you are passionate about a particular sport or performance. My passion is trail riding and so for a great deal of my life I had been on my own to experiment. What I mostly learned in my childhood and early adulthood was how to tolerate prey animal behavior.

I was introduced to Parelli Natural Horsemanship in the mid 90’s. What I love about this program is that there are resources for everyone to learn from no matter where you live. There is support for trail riders, performance folks, talented and challenged alike. Parelli Natural Horsemanship teaches us the skills and habits needed to turn our horsemanship into a fulfilling and satisfying experience for both you and your horse, regardless of your horsemanship goals.

I will use this page to share what has been shared with me.

Coach Kristi

25/02/2025

24/02/2025

22/02/2025

18/02/2025

17/02/2025

09/02/2025

04/02/2025

27/01/2025

19/01/2025

19/01/2025

12/01/2025

06/01/2025

25/12/2024

18/12/2024

13/12/2024

27/11/2024

22/11/2024

18/11/2024

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Horsemanship Is For Everyone!