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.