From PR to Horses: The Story of Smiling Goat Ranch with Sheryl Barto
In this transformative episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with the remarkable Sheryl Barto, founder of Smiling Goat Ranch in Carbondale, Colorado. Sheryl shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey, shaped by her son James, who is on the autism spectrum, and her lifelong love for horses. Discover how Sheryl built Smiling Goat Ranch into a haven for children, families, and individuals navigating autism, trauma, and life's many challenges—all while integrating horses, mountain sports, and ranch life in a holistic and life-changing way.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Sheryl's Personal Journey (Starts at 2:00)
Sheryl grew up with a deep connection to horses, spending her youth showing Ponies of the Americas (POAs) and exploring the countryside on horseback. Despite her dream of becoming a horse trainer, life initially took her on a different path—earning a journalism degree and building a successful career in PR. But when her son James was diagnosed with autism at age 10, Sheryl began to uncover a new purpose: helping others through the healing power of horses and nature.
The Birth of Smiling Goat Ranch (Starts at 16:30)
Founded in 2015, Smiling Goat Ranch offers equine-assisted therapy, classical horsemanship, and activities like mountain sports and ranch work. Sheryl’s approach is profoundly influenced by her experiences as an autism mom, her classical horse training skills, and her belief in the therapeutic connection between humans and animals. The ranch serves not only children with autism but also individuals dealing with trauma and those searching for connection and belonging.
The Name and the Heart of the Ranch (Starts at 24:00)
The ranch's name, Smiling Goat, reflects the joy and character of its early residents: three pygmy goats named Nelly, Lester, and Hubert. These quirky and lovable animals became symbolic of the warmth and playfulness that permeates the ranch, which now includes a range of animals and activities designed to meet people where they are—whether they connect best with horses, goats, mountain trails, or even wildflowers.
The Role of Classical Dressage and Yoga (Starts at 32:15)
Sheryl delves into the profound parallels between yoga and classical dressage, noting how both disciplines cultivate strength, balance, and harmony. She explains how classical dressage training helps horses develop the muscular and mental fitness needed to carry two riders, which is central to their work with autistic children and other special-needs clients.
A Community Effort and a Lifelong Mission (Starts at 41:20)
Building Smiling Goat Ranch was a community-driven endeavor. Sheryl recounts how local organizations like Roaring Fork Leadership and University of Denver students helped her create internships, housing, and infrastructure that make the ranch a sustainable and welcoming environment for families and visitors.
Horse Boy Inspiration (Starts at 52:45)
Sheryl describes the life-changing moment she first encountered Rupert Isaacson’s Horse Boy Method, witnessing its transformative impact on autistic children. This led her to train extensively with Rupert and incorporate Horse Boy principles into her ranch’s programs. From using horses to teach subjects like math and geography to understanding the vital connection between humans and animals, Sheryl’s philosophy blends evidence-based science with deep compassion and creativity.
The Power of Belonging and Connection (Starts at 1:04:00)
Smiling Goat Ranch provides more than therapy—it fosters a sense of community and belonging. Through internships, working student programs, and recreational therapy, the ranch creates opportunities for connection and growth, not just for its clients but for the broader community.
Memorable Moments from the Episode
- Sheryl explains how growing up with her pony Supreme and a veterinarian father shaped her deep connection to animals and their healing power.
- The story of James’s autism diagnosis and how it inspired Sheryl to advocate for inclusivity and understanding in schools and beyond.
- The magic of Smiling Goat Ranch, where horses, goats, and even wildflowers play a role in the therapeutic process.
- The critical role of classical horsemanship in creating physically and emotionally balanced horses capable of supporting the ranch’s unique therapy programs.
- How Smiling Goat Ranch’s programs evolved to include not only equine therapy but also mountain sports, ranch work, and recreational therapy.
Contact Sheryl
🌐 Smiling Goat Ranch
📧 [email protected]
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