Meet Elizabeth Rischar

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elizabeth Rischar. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elizabeth below.

Hi Elizabeth, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?

What a beautiful and poignant question! The conditions that allowed me to develop my empathy are deeply rooted in my experiences and the incredible people in my life. Reflecting back, my journey began with the gentle guidance of my pediatrician, who first recognized my empathic nature. Being the oldest daughter in a large family, I’ve always been surrounded by a rich tapestry of experiences.

My oldest brother’s journey, living as a quadriplegic after his service, revealed to me the profound strength and resilience that different life circumstances can foster. Additionally, my younger brother, who has Down syndrome, brought to light the extraordinary beauty of unique human experiences. While their abilities do not define them, they’ve certainly shaped my understanding of compassion and acceptance.

Navigating my own battles with bipolar type 1 has taught me the importance of empathy on a personal level. I’ve faced challenges that have often felt overwhelming, but these experiences have allowed me to connect with others in meaningful ways, helping me to understand pain, joy, and everything in between.

Growing up on a farm instilled in me the understanding that life is a blend of trials and triumphs. My grandpa Leaton Starman’s words resonate deeply within me: we are here to be kind to one another. This mantra has guided my actions and interactions, reminding me that kindness can be a powerful force.

Animals, especially horses, have played an instrumental role in my life. They’ve shown me the importance of community, the nuances of non-verbal communication, and the beauty in connection. Through these experiences, I’ve learned to not only embrace my empathy but to also nurture it, choosing joy and hope as I engage with the world around me. By planting seeds of kindness, I’ve found that we can cultivate a harvest of compassion and understanding in our lives and in the lives of others.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m excited to share my journey and the work that fills my days with purpose. As a Personal Aide through the Department of Rehabilitation, I have the privilege of supporting individuals in their pursuit of independent living. Every day, I get to show up with encouragement and compassion, helping others find joy along their unique paths. Witnessing their progress and growth is incredibly fulfilling and reminds me of the resilience that lives within us all.

My commitment to service extends beyond my role as a Personal Aide. I’m actively involved with Special Olympics, where I celebrate the extraordinary talents and spirit of athletes. Additionally, I volunteer at our local animal shelter, Homeward Bound Waggin’s, believing wholeheartedly in the impact one person can have, even in small, everyday actions.

Beyond my current endeavors, I’m in the process of creating a nonprofit centered around the incredible bond between humans and horses. This initiative is particularly close to my heart, as it will focus on non-riding equine interactions, highlighting trust and non-verbal communication. My goal is not only to preserve our generational family farm but also to provide meaningful jobs for horses who can no longer be ridden but have so much healing to offer.

I’m excited about the community engagement this nonprofit will foster and the opportunity it creates for individuals to connect with these majestic animals in a profound way. Through this project, I hope to demonstrate that healing, understanding, and personal growth can come from forming deep, trusting relationships—whether with people or animals.

I believe wholeheartedly in the power of compassion, connection, and community, and I look forward to what the future holds as I continue to pursue these passions!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, I can pinpoint three qualities that have significantly shaped who I am today: a strong work ethic, the importance of preparedness, and the value of calm presence.

First, my farming background instilled in me the power of hard work. The field life taught me that with grit, determination, and the right tools, so much can be accomplished. It’s a humbling reminder that perseverance is key, and the effort we put in often yields rewarding results.

Secondly, I owe a great deal to Mr. Rich Lask, my high school Jazz band teacher, who imparted a valuable lesson: “to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, to be late is to be in trouble.” This philosophy of preparedness applies to everything in life. It encourages us to respect others’ time and to be proactive in our pursuits. Being prepared not only sets us up for success but also cultivates a sense of confidence.

Lastly, my first horse, Lady, taught me the significance of calm presence. She showed me that one doesn’t need to be powerful to be productive. Sometimes, the most impactful thing we can do is listen deeply, understanding that being present and attuned to others is just as important as expressing our own voices.

For those who are early in their journeys, my advice is to embrace these qualities wholeheartedly. Work diligently and don’t shy away from the effort—every small step contributes to greater achievements. Always strive to be prepared, as it opens doors and creates opportunities. Lastly, cultivate the ability to listen and be present; these traits not only enrich our personal growth but also foster stronger connections with those around us. Remember, it’s the combination of these attributes that will guide you toward your goals and help you navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

My father believed in me 💫

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Starlineranch
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19pMAaA1et/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits

These photos were taken by me or my family & friends – none are professional photos