Horse Girl Chat: Fighting Obesity, Grief, and Life’s Challenges with Michelle Serna (@brokeasshorsegirl)
In this episode of Pursuit of Wellness, guest Michelle Serna sheds light on her lifelong connection to horses and the equestrian world. From costly upkeep to physical demands, Serna reveals the multifaceted nature of horse ownership. She provides candid advice for newcomers to this community, contrasting the approachable Western scene with the more insular English riding scene.
Serna's passion for horses extends beyond personal pursuits; she shares her entrepreneurial dreams of creating a brand that sponsors underprivileged youth in equestrian interests. Through her journey, she aims to spread awareness of horses' transformative impact and character-building role, instilled in her by her father and grandfather's influence.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Nov 21, 2024 episode of the Pursuit of Wellness
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1-Page Summary
Michelle's Lifelong Connection to Horses
Michelle Serna's identity has been deeply intertwined with the horse industry since birth, as shared by her father and grandfather. According to Michelle, horses have shaped her character, life choices, and philosophy, remaining integral even when she moved away for work. She sees horses as her life's driving motivation and source of excellence.
Advice for New Horse Enthusiasts
Michelle emphasizes that while the equestrian community can seem rigid, newcomers should explore different approaches without being discouraged. Michelle advises starting at lesson barns to build a strong foundation before owning horses. She cautions against beginner mistakes like prioritizing appearance over temperament, recommending modest, kind horses as ideal for learning.
The Multifaceted Nature of Horse Ownership
Michelle spends $8,000-$10,000 monthly on horse-related expenses, prioritizing them over personal comforts. Physically, riding requires developing specific muscles and facing fears. Mentally/emotionally, horses present challenges that teach perseverance, a mindset Michelle attributes to her father's influence.
Michelle's Entrepreneurial Goals
Inspired by Fallon Taylor, Michelle aims to start a horse brand that sponsors underprivileged youth in pursuing equestrian interests. She believes horses have transformative powers and wants to share their positive impact.
Contrasting Horse Communities
Michelle found the Western horse community more welcoming compared to the English community's insularity. Mari Llewellyn echoes this, noting increased confidence and self-reliance after transitioning to Western riding.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Michelle's connection to the horse industry since birth indicates that she has been involved with horses and the equestrian world from a very young age, most likely due to her family's background and influence. This early exposure suggests that horses have played a significant role in shaping her life, values, and decisions, creating a deep and longstanding bond with these animals and the industry as a whole.
- Michelle's philosophy being shaped by horses means that her fundamental beliefs, values, and outlook on life have been significantly influenced by her experiences with horses. This influence extends to how she approaches challenges, makes decisions, and views the world around her. Horses have played a central role in shaping Michelle's character, guiding her life choices, and serving as a constant source of motivation and excellence. This deep connection to horses has not only impacted her personal life but has also influenced her entrepreneurial goals and aspirations, driving her to create positive change within the equestrian community.
- Michelle spends $8,000-$10,000 monthly on horse-related expenses, covering various costs like boarding, feed, veterinary care, training, and equipment. These expenses are typical for serious horse owners who compete or maintain multiple horses. The financial commitment reflects the high costs associated with caring for and participating in the equestrian world. Michelle prioritizes these expenses as a significant part of her lifestyle and passion for horses.
- Riding requires the development of core muscles, including the abdominals and lower back, to maintain balance and stability on the horse. Additionally, leg muscles, such as the quadriceps and inner thighs, are crucial for maintaining proper leg position and providing cues to the horse. Arm and shoulder muscles are also engaged in controlling the reins and maintaining proper posture while riding. Overall, riding engages a variety of muscle groups to support the rider's coordination and communication with the horse.
- The Western and English horse communities represent different styles of riding and traditions within the equestrian world. Western riding is often associated with cowboy culture, characterized by a relaxed seat, distinct equipment like Western saddles, and events such as rodeo and reining. In contrast, English riding has roots in European horsemanship, featuring a more upright position, different types of saddles like the English saddle, and disciplines such as dressage and show jumping. Each community has its own set of practices, attire, and competitions that shape the experiences and interactions within them.
- Mari Llewellyn's experience transitioning to Western riding highlights a shift from English riding to Western riding, showcasing differences in riding styles, equipment, and community culture. This change often involves adapting to new techniques, attire, and horse handling practices specific to Western disciplines. The transition can lead to increased confidence and self-reliance, as noted by Mari Llewellyn, indicating personal growth and a positive impact on her equestrian journey.
Counterarguments
- While Michelle's identity is deeply connected to the horse industry, not everyone who engages with horses will or should feel that their identity is as closely tied to their hobby or profession.
- The idea that horses shape character and life choices might be true for Michelle, but others may find that their engagement with horses is just one aspect of a multifaceted life.
- Horses can be a driving motivation and source of excellence for some, but others may find fulfillment and motivation in different areas of their lives.
- Newcomers to the equestrian community might find that some approaches are not suitable for them despite exploring different ones, and that's okay.
- While starting at lesson barns is good advice for many, some individuals may have other effective ways of learning about horse ownership and care.
- The recommendation for modest, kind horses for beginners is sound, but some learners might thrive with a more challenging horse under proper guidance.
- The monthly expense on horse-related activities that Michelle reports is quite high and may not be reflective of the costs incurred by the average horse owner.
- Prioritizing horse expenses over personal comforts is a personal choice and not necessarily one that should be recommended to others, as financial prudence is also important.
- While riding does require developing specific muscles and facing fears, not all riders may experience the same physical and emotional challenges.
- The idea that horses teach perseverance is subjective and may not hold true for everyone's experiences.
- The influence of Michelle's father on her mindset is specific to her personal experience and may not be generalizable.
- Starting a horse brand to sponsor underprivileged youth is a noble goal, but it's important to recognize that not all initiatives may be successful or sustainable.
- The transformative powers of horses that Michelle wants to share may not be perceived or experienced in the same way by everyone.
- The perception of the Western horse community being more welcoming than the English community is subjective and may vary based on individual experiences.
- The increase in confidence and self-reliance from transitioning to Western riding may not be a universal outcome for all riders who make such a transition.
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Michelle's lifelong connection to the horse industry and her journey with horses
Michelle's identity has been deeply connected to the horse industry since birth, a journey that has influenced her character, her life choices, and her philosophy on life.
Michelle's natural immersion into the equestrian world
From the moment she was born, Michelle was fortunate to be immersed in an environment where the love of horses was a family legacy. Her connection with horses was immediate and profound, with her father and grandfather sharing their equine passion with her. She recounts how her life was intrinsically linked to horses from the very beginning, with her father having been employed at a livestock supply and feed store since adolescence before owning a feed store himself, as well as a boarding facility on their property. Michelle had ponies waiting for her when she was born and grew up with constant access to horses and the knowledge her family accumulated about them. She appreciates the encouragement from her parents to engage with horses, recognizing that many children may not have the same support.
Equestrian passion shaping Michelle's identity
Michelle's connection to horses is a core part of her identity. She insists that there's no version of herself without horses, as they have always been integral to her life. Even when she moved to San Francisco to work in tech, she did not step away from her equestrian roots, despite experiencing burnou ...
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Michelle's lifelong connection to the horse industry and her journey with horses
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Counterarguments
- While Michelle's identity is deeply connected to the horse industry, it's possible that other experiences and interests also play a significant role in shaping her identity.
- The influence of horses on Michelle's character and life choices is clear, but it's important to acknowledge that other factors, such as education, friendships, and various life experiences, may also have had a substantial impact.
- Michelle's immersion in the equestrian world from birth is a unique privilege, but it's worth considering that such an early and singular focus might have limited her exposure to a wider range of interests and potential passions.
- The idea that there's no version of Michelle without horses could be seen as an overlook of the multifaceted nature of personal identity, which can encompass a broad spectrum of traits and interests beyond a single passion.
- The assertion that horses taught Michelle everything she knows about ...
Actionables
- You can explore your own family's heritage to find a passion that resonates with you by interviewing older relatives about their interests and documenting these stories in a journal or digital archive. This could reveal a recurring theme or activity that has significance in your family, which you might want to pursue or learn more about.
- Create a personal vision board that includes images and quotes related to a passion you've identified, such as horseback riding, to visually reinforce your connection to it. Place the board somewhere you'll see it daily to remind yourself of the values and lessons this passion imparts, and use it as motivation to integrate these elements into your life.
- Start a micro-habit related to an interest you're ...
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Advice and challenges for people new to the horse world
Navigating the equestrian community can be daunting for newcomers. Michelle and Mari Llewellyn provide insights and practical advice for those looking to enter the horse world, emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation and cautioning against common beginner mistakes.
Established horse people can be set in their ways, making it overwhelming for newcomers to get started
Michelle touches on the insular nature of the horse world and how entrenched attitudes can make it intimidating for newcomers. She suggests that the equestrian community may have a variety of opinions on the correct approach to horsemanship. Yet, Michelle encourages new enthusiasts to explore different methods, learn from their mistakes, and not be discouraged by traditionalists who may seem rigid in their ways.
Michelle emphasizes that there are many valid ways to approach horses, and newcomers should not be discouraged by differing opinions
Michelle Serna advises new equestrians to choose their mentors and equine circle carefully, acknowledging that opinions vary widely in the horse community. Michelle implies that encountering negativity or rigid attitudes is possible, but it shouldn't deter newcomers from forging their own path in the horse world, nor should it overshadow the joy of learning and experiencing all that horsemanship has to offer.
Michelle advises new horse enthusiasts to start with lesson barns to build a solid foundation before transitioning to their own horse
Michelle shares her belief that English lesson barns are an excellent starting place for beginners, as they offer a strong foundational knowledge of equestrian sport. She encourages adults not to feel embarrassed about learning alongside children and highlights the importance of taking the time to truly understand and enjoy horseback riding before moving on to ownership.
Beginner mistakes, like prioritizing a horse's appearance over its temperament, can be avoided by learning the basics first
Michelle details the risk ...
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Advice and challenges for people new to the horse world
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The term "insular nature of the horse world" describes how the equestrian community can be close-knit and exclusive, often resistant to change or new ideas from outsiders. This can make it challenging for newcomers to break into the community or be accepted if they do not conform to established norms or practices. The insularity can create barriers for those trying to enter the horse world, as existing members may be hesitant to welcome or embrace different perspectives or approaches.
- In the equestrian community, horsemanship approaches vary widely, with different trainers and riders having distinct methods and philosophies on how to work with horses. Newcomers may encounter conflicting opinions on the best way to handle and train horses, which can be overwhelming. It's important for beginners to explore different approaches, learn from various perspectives, and ultimately find a method that aligns with their values and goals in horsemanship.
- English lesson barns are facilities where individuals can take structured horse riding lessons. These barns typically have experienced instructors who teach beginners the fundamentals of horseback riding and horse care in a safe environment. Lessons at these barns often involve learning how to groom, tack up, mount, and ride a horse properly. They provide a solid foundation for newcomers before they consider owning or leasing a horse of their own.
- Prioritizing a horse's temperament over appearance means valuing the horse's behavior, personality, and suitability for the rider's skill level and goals more than focusing solely on how the horse looks physically. It emphasizes choosing a horse that is well-suited to the rider's needs and abilities, even if it may not be the most visually striking or impressive in terms of appearance. This approach aims to ensure a harmonious and safe partnership between the rider and the horse, prioritizing compatibility and a positive experience over superficial qualities.
- Purchasing young, attractive horses for beginners can pose risks due to their potential high energy levels and lack of training, which may be challenging for inexperienced riders to handle safely. These horses may require more experienced guidance and training to develop into well-behaved mounts, making them less suitable for beginners seeking a reliable and predictable riding experience. In contrast, older, more seasoned horses often have established temperaments and manners that can better accommodate novice riders, providing a safer and more enjoyable learning environment. Prioritizing a horse's temperament and suitability over its appearance can help beginners avoid unnecessary challenges and potential safety concerns when starting their equestrian journey.
- Starting with older, dependable horses is important for beginners because these horses are typica ...
Counterarguments
- While established horse people may have set ways, this can also mean they have a wealth of experience and knowledge that can be invaluable to newcomers. It's important to balance respect for traditional methods with openness to new ideas.
- While there are many valid ways to approach horsemanship, it's also crucial for beginners to understand that some methods are more ethical and effective than others. It's important to learn from reputable sources to ensure the welfare of the horse and the safety of the rider.
- Starting with lesson barns is good advice, but it's also worth noting that not all lesson barns are created equal. Newcomers should seek out barns with a good reputation and experienced instructors, regardless ...
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The financial, physical, and mental/emotional aspects of horse ownership and involvement
Michelle Serna and Mari delve into the multifaceted world of horse ownership, sharing their experiences with the financial strain, physical demands, and mental hurdles associated with their passion for horses.
Horse ownership can be extremely expensive
Michelle opens up about the costly nature of horse ownership, admitting she spends anywhere from $8,000 to $10,000 per month on associated expenses for her truck, trailer, house, and horses. She confesses that her life revolves around her horses to such an extent that creature comforts like furniture or even basic groceries take a back seat. Despite recognizing her spending as "diabolical" and "insane," Michelle's dedication to her horses compels her to prioritize their expenses above all else. Even those with a high income might find the costs of horse ownership to be a financial "black hole," yet for Michelle, the passion justifies the expenditure.
Physically, riding horses requires the development of specific muscle groups and can lead to aches and pains
Michelle and Mari also discuss the physical component of horse riding. Mari recounts how she became obsessed with riding despite an initial challenging relationship with a leased horse. Michelle advises new riders to persevere through the aches and pains that develop as they grow specific muscle groups necessary for riding. She candidly discusses how her horse, Bird, evokes fear in herself and others, but she affirms that repeatedly facing one's fears, including the anxiety that precedes barrel races, is the only way to overcome them. Michelle credits her father's 'rock and roll' approach – facing fears directly and persistently – for her tenacity in riding and life challenges.
Horses can also pose me ...
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The financial, physical, and mental/emotional aspects of horse ownership and involvement
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Counterarguments
- While horse ownership can indeed be expensive, there are varying levels of involvement and cost, and not all horse owners will experience the high expenses described by Michelle. Some owners may find ways to reduce costs through shared resources, less expensive equipment, or by choosing less costly disciplines or activities.
- It's true that riding horses can be physically demanding, but it's also a form of exercise that can improve overall fitness, balance, and coordination. The physical demands can be seen as a positive aspect of horse riding, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
- While facing fears is an important aspect of horse riding, it's also crucial to recognize when fear is a sign of real danger. It's important to balance bravery with a sense of caution and to ensure that safety is always a priority.
- The mental and emotional challenges associated with horses can be significant, but these experiences can also lead to personal growth and de ...
Actionables
- You can start a horse-related savings fund to manage the financial demands of horse ownership. Set up a dedicated savings account and contribute a fixed percentage of your income each month, similar to a retirement fund. This can help you gradually build the financial resources needed for potential horse ownership without the shock of sudden large expenses.
- Incorporate horseback riding simulation exercises into your fitness routine to prepare your body for the physical demands of riding. Use a stability ball to mimic the movements of horseback riding, focusing on core strength, balance, and leg muscles. This can help condition your body, potentially reducing the aches and pains associated with actual riding.
- Practice mindfulnes ...
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Michelle's entrepreneurial goals and desire to have a positive impact on the horse community
Michelle Serna stands out in the horse industry for her business mentality and discipline which fuels her aspiration to make a significant impact through equine-related entrepreneurial endeavors.
Michelle aspires to start her own horse-related brand or business that would give back to the community, such as sponsoring underprivileged youth to pursue their equestrian interests
Inspired by figures like Fallon Taylor, a professional barrel racer and entrepreneur who pioneered the equine influencer space, Michelle aims to emulate Taylor's blend of savvy business acumen with a passion for equestrian life. She acknowledges the support and friendship of Fallon, who has also helped with her horses and supports the path Michelle is carving out in the horse industry.
Michelle believes horses have the power to positively impact people's lives and wants to use her platform to introduce more individuals to the transformative experience of interacting with horses
With a commitment to personal improvement in riding higher-level horses, Michelle’s ultimate goal is to launch a brand within the horse space. This brand would aim to sponsor up to five children each year, covering all of their horse-related expenses, and enabling them to follow their equestrian dreams.
Michelle credits horses with life- ...
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Michelle's entrepreneurial goals and desire to have a positive impact on the horse community
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Equine-related entrepreneurial endeavors involve starting businesses or projects within the horse industry. This can include creating products, services, or initiatives that cater to the needs of horse owners, riders, or enthusiasts. Entrepreneurs in this field often seek to innovate, solve industry challenges, and make a positive impact on the equine community through their ventures. These endeavors can range from developing new horse care products to launching equestrian events or services.
- "Business acumen" refers to a person's ability to understand business situations, make wise decisions, and achieve successful outcomes. It involves having a comprehensive understanding of how different aspects of a business work together for success, including financial literacy, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Individuals with strong business acumen can grasp the big picture of an organization, interpret financial data, make informed decisions, understand the impact of their actions on key business metrics, and effectively communicate their ideas.
- Riding higher-level horses typically refers to working with horses that have advanced training and skills in specific disciplines, such as dressage, show jumping, or eventing. These horses are often more experienced, responsive, and trained to perform complex movements or tasks. Riding such horses requires a higher level of skill, finesse, and understanding of advanced riding techniques to effectively communicate with and guide them during training or competition. Michelle's commitment to improving her riding skills with higher-level horses indicates her dedication to mastering more challenging and sophisticated aspects of equestrianism.
- Equestrian dreams typically refer to aspirations or goals related to horse riding, training, or competing in equestrian sports. For individuals passionate about horses, these dreams may involve achieving success in horse-related activities, such as show jumping, dressage, or horse racing. Pursuing equestrian dreams often involves dedication, training, and a deep love for horses and the eques ...
Counterarguments
- While Michelle's goals are admirable, starting a horse-related brand can be financially risky, and the equine industry is known for its economic volatility.
- Sponsoring underprivileged youth is a generous initiative, but it may not be sustainable long-term without a solid business model and consistent funding sources.
- The impact of horses on people's lives, while often positive, can vary greatly from person to person, and not everyone may find interactions with horses to be transformative.
- The idea of using horses for healing and personal growth, though supported by some studies, may not be universally accepted as a form of therapy or personal development.
- The success of such a brand as Michelle envisions may depend heavily on market trends and consumer interests, which can be unpredictable.
- There may be challenges in scaling the business model of sponsoring children, as the costs associated with equestrian activities can be quite high.
- While Michelle is inspired by Fallon Taylor and aims to emulate her success, individual paths to success can differ, and what worked for one entrepreneur may not work for another.
- The focus on higher-level horses might inadvertently create an elitist image ...
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Differences between the English and Western horse communities
In an exploration of the contrasting cultures within horse riding disciplines, Michelle Serna's experiences highlight a stark difference between the English and Western horse communities, specifically noting the latter's welcoming and supportive nature.
Michelle's experience transitioning between disciplines
Michelle found that the Western horse community was more welcoming and supportive compared to the English horse community, which she felt could be more insular and critical.
Transition to independence and self-reliance
Mari Llewellyn echoes this sentiment, sharing her own experiences of feeling more welcomed in the Western horse community. She recounts how Michelle Serna offered assistance with her horse, showcasing the supportive atmosphere prevalent within the Western community. Llewellyn contrasts this with her time spent in the English riding community, where she felt overly reliant on others, signifying a culture that catered less to individual growth in horsemanship.
In her transition to Wes ...
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Differences between the English and Western horse communities
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Counterarguments
- The perception of the Western horse community as more welcoming could be influenced by personal experiences and may not reflect the experiences of all riders.
- The English horse community has a long tradition of mentorship and training that can also foster independence and self-reliance, though it may be less apparent or expressed differently.
- The sense of community in any discipline can vary greatly from one barn or region to another, and generalizations may not hold true in all cases.
- Some may argue that the structure and discipline in English riding can also contribute positively to a rider's development and confidence.
- The critical nature of the English horse community might be interpreted as a commitment to high standards and excellence rather than a lack of support.
- The supportiveness of a community can be subjective and dependent on the specific individuals ...
Actionables
- You can explore local Western riding clubs to immerse yourself in a supportive equestrian environment. Start by searching online for nearby Western riding groups or clubs and attend a meeting or event. This will give you a firsthand experience of the community's atmosphere and allow you to connect with riders who value independence and supportiveness.
- Consider volunteering at Western riding events to experience the community's camaraderie. Offering your time at competitions, rodeos, or community riding days can provide insights into how the Western horse community operates and the ways in which they foster a welcoming environment.
- Engage with online forums and social media groups dedicated to Western r ...
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1-Page Summary- Michelle's lifelong connection to the horse industry and her journey with horses
- Advice and challenges for people new to the horse world
- The financial, physical, and mental/emotional aspects of horse ownership and involvement
- Michelle's entrepreneurial goals and desire to have a positive impact on the horse community
- Differences between the English and Western horse communities
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