Non-Dominant Horsemanship

Have you ever heard it said that the key to success with a horse is to “show ‘em who’s boss?”  Have you ever wondered where that comes from?  Or if it works?  Well, the answer to that depends largely on what kind of boss we become.

This seminar invites anyone interested in developing their leadership skills, whether they are horse experienced or not! Join us as we share what the herd has taught us about leadership that is free of dominance. Explore some key themes including choice, consequences, and consent.

Leadership is one of the main pillars of a successful horsemanship practice. This is why so many skilled horsewomen and men are also so adept at growing their communities, nurturing their families, and inspiring others in spheres of modern life that often have little or nothing to do with horses. So it follows, that practicing horsemanship can also hone your leadership skills.

Sunday April 12th, 2026

10am - 3pm

5621 Sawmill Rd.

Register here:

https://www.cognitoforms.com/Riding4Life1/NonDominantHorsemanship

Leann Manuel is a certified Master Instructor with CHA and Cultivating Safe Spaces facilitator.

"When I’m working with clients it’s never enough to simply say, “be a good leader.”  The concept of leadership is quite problematic in our society because it continues to tolerate a dysfunctional and even toxic dynamic.  Often the best way to begin teaching clients Leadership Skills is to begin instructing them about what they are not.  For some this comes as a great relief because they can’t stomach the thought of ‘leading’ a horse the way they’ve been ‘led’.  For others, this is very challenging as they first must unlearn a lot of habits and behaviours that have more to do with coercion and violence than they do with leadership."

"A horse’s core mission in life is to spend their time free of any and all perceived pressure.  This motivation serves them well in the wild where their survival depends on the ability to avoid predators.  But a horse on its own will always be on alert at some level and will never be able to rest.  True peace and comfort comes only with a herd.  And every herd of horses has at least one boss mare in there somewhere who is setting the tone, keeping the boundaries, and assessing the current possibility of danger.  So, what about the average domesticated horse?  Who do they look to for leadership?  How do they find comfort, and where will they find a trustworthy boss mare?"