By JAMIE SINDELL
It’s human nature to focus on the negatives. Of course, it is imperative to discuss the flaws in this industry such as drugging and dishonesty, because that is the only way to inspire change. However, when I’m stuck too far in that dark place, it’s easy to forget about the incredible, ethical professionals who embody kindness and integrity.
This year, my New Year’s resolution is simple: Focus more on the positives. Focus on the trainers who embody the good stuff.
The reality is, while the number of trainers I trust may feel like it’s dwindling, I’ve encountered many ethical professionals throughout my years—trainers with heart. I want to say thank you to all of you who are doing it right: the ones who put the horse first, prioritize trust, and foster a positive environment for horses and clients.
If you’re one of the good ones, I see you. We see you.
Collectively, we can celebrate the professionals with the values we want to see more of in the horse industry. And not just the professionals who are putting the winners in the ring.
1. The Trainers Who Demonstrate Ethics & Kindness
These are the trainers who prioritize their clients and horses, not only their financial gain. They emphasize trust and positive relationships while navigating an increasingly costly industry.
One example that stands out is my daughter’s trainer. Finding the right horse is an incredibly challenging process when your wish list and budget aren’t aligned. This trainer could have pressured us into accepting a less-than-ideal horse just to make a quick buck. But she hasn’t. She’s taken the time to ensure that we find the right match —not the easiest or most profitable sale. She truly cares about helping my daughter find her best next partner.
Recently, we brough a mare on trial. This trainer gave honest, thoughtful feedback rather than claiming she could work a miracle and make the horse work. This transparency illustrated her integrity and commitment to doing things right.
These types of trainers remind us that ethics matter, especially when decisions are involved that impact both safety and finances.
2. The Trainers Who Inspired Us from the Beginning
The people who lay the foundation for your riding journey leave a lasting impact. My very first trainer did just that. She provided me with opportunities to keep riding and learning even when my family didn’t have ample resources.
Unlike most of her clients, I didn’t own a horse. Still, she never excluded me, never made me feel less-than because I wasn’t in the same financial position as other girls. Instead, she transformed me into an exceptional barn rat. A gritty kid who worked her butt off in exchange for riding. She nurtured my passion for horses when she could just have easily extinguished it. Without her encouragement, I doubt I would now own a farm. I doubt I would be encouraging my own daughters to ride.
It’s amazing how gestures of kindness during pivotal moments can linger with us for years. Trainers like this one don’t only equate one’s worth with their income. It’s also about going the extra mile and offering encouragement and growth to those with potential.
3. The Trainers Who Show Us Patience & Empathy
Riding can be petrifying—especially when you’re a young kid struggling with anxiety. I’ll always be grateful to the trainers who showed my eldest daughter empathy during her most challenging moments. Instead of rushing her, judging her, or showing frustration, they worked with her, building her confidence at her own pace rather than pushing her too hard. Their support laid a foundation for her passion for riding and helped her move past her fears.
I’ll always be thankful to one trainer and his wife who invited my daughter into her home to do homework with their son while I rode, just so my kid could accompany me to the barn. This trainer also provided my worried kid with a saintly pony to lesson on, free of charge, so she could spend time in the saddle on something safe. I often think of those gestures. They are a chapter in my kid’s horse love story.
Working with trainers who recognize that confidence is just as vital as ability is invaluable. These trainers foster a safe, supportive environment where fear is met with empathy, not judgment or ridicule.
4. The Trainers Who Teach Us How to Do It the Right Way
The best trainers help shape us as horseman. The trainer I rode with for years showed me what skilled riding looked like. He prioritized flat work rather than drilling the jumps. Over and over, I witnessed how this mastery of the flat made his hunters incredibly supple, happy and more rideable. Now, one of my core values is great flat work, just like he taught me. We also did some young horses together. During that process, he taught me that something good is never worth rushing. He was patient with the youngsters and prioritized giving them a positive foundation.
These are the trainers who teach us true horsemanship. They shape who we are in the best ways. They teach us to consider the welfare of the horse rather than the size of the jumps or our own egos.
Celebrating the Positives
As we step into the new year, I hope we can thank the individuals who inspire trust, build confidence, and keep us connected to this sport through the good and bad times. We can acknowledge trainers who don’t play favorites, pit clients against one another or foster drama. These are the trainers who prove that it’s possible to thrive in this business when you lead with integrity.
Share your shout-outs and your stories, because when we celebrate the heroes, it’s not only about an acknowledgment. It’s about making it easier for prospective clients to find them. And making it more desirable for other professionals to emulate them. Ultimately, we make it easier to focus on the good.
Let’s shift the narrative together—one thank you at a time.
About the Author
Jamie Sindell is a passionate equestrian blogger. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona and a BS in Animal Science from Cornell University. She has ridden and owned hunters on and off throughout her life. She is a mom of five kids who range from ages 4-15. She and her family reside at Wish List Farm, where her horse-crazy girls play with their ponies. Her son and husband play with the tractor. You can follow her on Instagram @wishlistfarm.
