For over 25 years, Brandi Lyons has been dedicated to helping riders and their equine partners build strong, enduring relationships. This passion, ignited in her youth on the road with her father, John Lyons, has driven her to explore various avenues of teaching, from in-person clinics and month-long training programs to innovative virtual classes designed to empower riders from the comfort of their homes. The core philosophy remains consistent: fostering confidence in riders and ensuring horses feel at peace with their human companions. This approach focuses on teaching riders how to set clear expectations, communicate them effectively, and achieve them, thereby creating a foundation of trust and safety for both horse and rider.
The Evolution of Equine Education
Brandi’s journey in equine education began with traditional methods, including extensive travel for clinics and offering monthly training and lessons. From 1998 to 2013, this hands-on approach allowed her to connect with numerous riders and horses. As her children grew, she returned to traveling for clinics, but the advent of the pandemic in 2020 prompted a significant shift. This period of necessity led Brandi to embrace online teaching, a venture she initially approached with trepidation.
She recognized the need for an online learning experience that went beyond a generic curriculum. Brandi envisioned goal-oriented virtual programs that provided individual attention, catering to each rider’s unique aspirations and journey. The success of her trial classes surprised and delighted her, validating this new approach. Today, these virtual programs, alongside continued in-person clinics and intensive immersion programs, offer riders flexible and effective ways to develop their skills and deepen their connection with their horses.
The Pillars of a Strong Horse-Rider Relationship
Central to Brandi’s philosophy is the concept of a horse-rider’s worthiness. Riders need to understand that they are deserving of clear expectations from their horses. When a rider establishes and communicates these expectations effectively, the horse feels secure and cared for, knowing precisely what is required. This eliminates the guesswork and anxiety often associated with misunderstood cues.
Brandi’s programs are meticulously designed to equip riders with the knowledge of what to expect, how to convey these expectations, and how to achieve them. This focus on clear communication and mutual understanding is the cornerstone of building a lasting, harmonious relationship.
Program Offerings:
Brandi Lyons offers a diverse range of programs to suit every rider’s needs:
- In-Country Clinics: These provide immersive, in-person training experiences across the country.
- Virtual Programs: Accessible from home, these online courses offer step-by-step guidance and personalized attention. Examples include:
- Ground Work Series: This program focuses on transforming how riders interact with, react to, and train their horses from the ground up, covering fundamentals, and even exploring tricks and liberty work.
- OVERCOME Your Fear!!: Designed to help riders conquer their fears, this virtual program guides participants from groundwork to the saddle, emphasizing clear communication, respect, and building a lasting relationship.
- Building a Confident Trail Horse: This program offers a safe and proven method for developing a horse that is confident and reliable on the trail, ensuring enjoyable and secure trail riding experiences for both horse and rider.
- Month-Long Intensive Programs: Held at her facility in Arizona, these immersive programs allow for focused, in-depth work on specific rider and horse goals.
Brandi’s expertise has been recognized through publications in prestigious equestrian magazines such as Horse and Rider, Western Horseman, Perfect Horse, Horse Illustrated, and The Trail Rider, as well as various blogs. She is also a participant in the 2022 Road to the Horse competition, highlighting her standing within the equestrian community.
Are you ready to cultivate a deep and lasting bond with your horse? Explore Brandi’s online programs to receive guidance every step of the way on your journey. Stay connected by joining her mailing list for tips, inspiration, and updates on upcoming events.
