We recently connected with Liz Steffes and have shared our conversation below.
Liz, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Driven by a desire to empower others after overcoming a challenging personal experience, I founded Rise & Ride Ranch. For almost six years, I endured an abusive relationship that left me feeling depleted and lost. With the unwavering support of my husband, Carson, I found the strength to break free and embark on a path of healing.
Our first step was welcoming Charlie, our Clydesdale , into our lives. Charlie, much like myself, carried the scars of past trauma. Together, we formed an unbreakable bond, our shared experiences fostering empathy and resilience. This journey ignited a passion within me to help others overcome similar struggles.
Rise & Ride Ranch has become a haven for countless animals in need and a source of strength for survivors of domestic abuse. Witnessing the transformation of those we serve is a constant source of inspiration. Additionally, I’m dedicated to empowering young people with the knowledge and resources to avoid falling victim to manipulative relationships.
My past has become a powerful motivator, guiding me to illuminate a path for others. It is a privilege to use my experience to make a positive impact on the lives of those seeking healing and hope.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Everything we do is for the horses. Hands down. Everything we learn and earn goes right back into them every time. The safe, easy and positive environment we strive to create is not just for the customers, but for our horses too. Its so important they have loving and kind people in their lives to give them that sense of belonging ♥️
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Horses have been my greatest teachers, constantly reminding me of the importance of a teachable spirit. They’ve shown me that the world isn’t always black and white – what appears clear can be surprisingly nuanced. Just like training a horse, growth comes from being open to learning, embracing mistakes as opportunities, and continuously refining my understanding. It’s a journey of adaptation, where preconceived notions are replaced by a willingness to adjust and improve.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
I thrive working with individuals who approach their horse experience with an open mind and a positive attitude. This positive energy creates a wonderful connection between horse and rider, which is truly rewarding to witness, and is so good for the horses.
Witnessing the connection between rescued horses and their riders is truly heartwarming. These horses have often endured difficult lives, especially with people, and the opportunity to build a trusting and loving relationship with people can be incredibly healing for them. When a client demonstrates a genuine desire to understand a horse’s past in order to provide the care and affection it deserves, it warms my heart! Those are the type of people the horses deserve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.riseandrideranch.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseandrideranch?igsh=MWg5Z292eWI4cmJtNg==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riseandrideranch?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Image Credits
Carolyn Marie
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