In this episode of Black in the Saddle, I sit down with the incomparable Pennie Selina Brown, a community connector, wellness champion, and founder of The STAND Foundation. From trail rides under the stars to leading equine-facilitated leadership retreats in Jamaica, Pennie’s journey into the horse world is anything but traditional. And yet, her impact is exactly what this industry needs.

We talk about how a chance encounter at a party led her into the horse world at age 40, how she found healing and growth through her horse Blue, and why she’s so committed to creating safe, transformative spaces for Black girls. We also unpack the difference between her nonprofit work and her new venture, PS Wellness, and what it really means to prioritize healing for ourselves and our communities.

We also share behind-the-scenes reflections from our joint trip to Jamaica to introduce equine-facilitated learning to a new audience, and what it taught us about culture, connection, and care.

In this episode, you’ll hear us discuss:

• The founding of The STAND Foundation and its 10-year legacy
• The mission behind PS Wellness and the power of healing-centered work
• Our reflections on leading a retreat in Kingston, Jamaica
• Why work with the horses is more than sport
• The upcoming Black Equestrian Summer Bash on August 31st at City Ranch in Baltimore

This conversation is full of joy, depth, and truth-telling and it’s a reminder that you don’t need to have grown up on a farm or ranch to find your place in this world. Whether you’re new to horses or have been riding your whole life, you’ll find something in this episode that speaks to you.

Learn more about Pennie:

• The STAND Foundation: thestandfoundation.org | IG: @thestandfoundation__
• PS Wellness: pswellness.me | IG: @pswellness.me

Join Us:

The Black Equestrian Summer Bash is August 31, 2025, at City Ranch in Baltimore! Come for the horses, stay for the healing—and yes, there’s an afterparty.

Can’t make it? Consider donating to The STAND Foundation to support youth development, healing, and leadership through horses.

📩 Want to volunteer? DM me or send an email to get involved ([email protected]).