About Strive
Trust. Understanding. Growth.
Welcome to Strive Equine! I'm Susan Chandler, founder and trainer, with nearly 15 years of experience in equine training. My goal is to help horses and their owners forge lasting partnerships built on trust, understanding, and strong foundations.
At Strive Equine, I tailor each training approach to meet the unique needs of each horse, using patient and effective methods that nurture confidence in both horse and owner. With a background in rehabilitating horses who have faced past challenges, I’m dedicated to helping them reconnect and find balance with people.
Strive Equine offers Northern Colorado horse owners the opportunity to build strong, harmonious bonds with their horses, no matter if you’re aiming to deepen your connection, support a horse through challenges, or expand your skills. Together, we’ll strive for harmony, trust, and excellence in every step of our journey.
Our Philosophy
At Strive Equine, training begins with empathy, patience, and a deep respect for each horse’s unique perspective. With nearly 15 years of experience, I’ve developed a blended approach that combines the timeless principles of Natural Horsemanship with modern, evidence-based methods, including positive reinforcement (R+).
For me, training isn’t about forcing a result, it’s about building a true partnership. I focus on clear communication, setting boundaries with consistency, and creating trust-based connections. Through thoughtful use of positive reinforcement, I help horses feel confident, engaged, and eager to learn.
Whether I’m helping a horse heal from past trauma or nurturing a new partnership, my goal is always to foster lasting, trusting relationships between horses and their people. Each session is tailored to meet the needs of both horse and rider, and every step we take is purposeful and guided by respect for the individual horse’s journey.
What to Expect
Whether you're bringing a horse for training or joining a lesson, here's what you can count on at Strive Equine:
- A Calm, Respectful Environment – I prioritize emotional safety for both horse and human. Sessions move at a pace that builds confidence without pressure.
- Individualized Plans – Every horse and rider team is unique. I’ll assess where you’re starting and design a plan that fits your goals and experience.
- Clear Communication – You'll always know what we're working on and why. I’ll walk you through each step and answer any questions along the way.
- Holistic Training – Each session is designed to address the needs of both you and your horse, using a mix of groundwork and under-saddle work to build confidence and connection.
- Support Beyond the Session – You’re not in this alone. Whether it’s follow-up resources or checking in on progress, I’m here for the long haul!
Training with Strive Equine isn’t just about mechanics, it’s about connection, understanding, and growth for both you and your horse.