A better way for horses, humans, and the future of the sport

Mary Ann Simonds has worked as a researcher, educator, coach and consultant for over 40 years in the fields of human and animal behavior, communication, consciousness and ethology. Lecturing and consulting nationally and internationally primarily on horse-human interactions, her work blends the application of science with intuition integrating cultural issues and finding solutions for the well-being of people and animal. She has produced numerous educational materials including videos and books and has a new book “A Horse by Nature” recently out.

Currently living in Wellington, FL, Mary Ann has retired from a rigorous teaching with the Institute of Integrated Sciences and the Whole Horse & Equestrian Science Institute to focus on writing and speaking. Her pioneering work has focused on stress management in animals and how humans influence animal behavior both in the wild and in captivity. Integrating a whole systems approach to interspecies psychology, Mary Ann has worked with governments, communities, businesses, non-profit organizations and universities.

On this episode, we discuss signs of stress in horses, horse personality assessments, skills of a good horseperson, welfare, and the future of the sport.

Connect with Mary Ann:

• Instagram


• Website


• Order the Book