Owner, Riding Instructor

Madi grew up wild, galloping bareback through isolated farm lands on the back of her gelding, Whitey, who had startling clear blue eyes and a white coat. He was brilliant and loyal, willing to be her teacher as long as she was honest and fair. Now, memories with Whitey have become her most cherished childhood experiences, and Madi seeks to teach about partnership with horses to children, as she once had with Whitey. Madi went on to work with children for many years in different capacities, eventually acquiring a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy before once again finding her way back to horses. She realized this is where she was destined to be. Her personal experiences coupled with professional knowledge as an occupational therapist lends a unique perspective to her lessons while teaching children, one that is FUN and engaging! Madi mentored with Jody Nixon, founder of Metaphorse Growth and Healing Center, for the last several years preparing to take over the kids programs. Now, with gratitude, Madi’s Horse Lessons continues to grow and thrive. 

Riding Instructor

Steve, a retired equine-assisted psychotherapist, brings a wealth of experience with horses as well as a lifetime of training and experience in the helping professions to his work with Madi’s Horse Lessons.  Steve has worked with horses at a mental health clinic, a horse rescue ranch, a ranch for gentling mustangs, and Metaphorse Growth and Healing Center.  As a Presbyterian pastor, he led congregations for over 35 years.  He served, also, as a member of the clinical staff of an addictions rehabilitation center. Throughout his career, he volunteered as a firefighter and E.M.T. and as a chaplain for community police departments, fire departments, and an ocean rescue squad.  He and his wife, Nancy, own two horses, Owen and Ginger.  In all his work with lessons, classes, and camps, he is accompanied by his dog, Lily.  

Riding Instructor

Lezah grew up in Illinois. She knew she loved equines before age 8. She was fortunate to have her own horses as a kid. She enjoyed trail riding and honing her equine skills. Lezah, a longtime Colorado resident, holds Animal Science and Physical Therapy degrees. Since retiring in 2021, Lezah has been a passionate volunteer within the local horse community, starting out at Metaphorse Growth and Healing Center. With her extended knowledge of disabilities, rehabilitation and horsemanship, she can draw on that understanding to solve unique problems. She currently assists Madi in teaching horsemanship and riding skills to children and young adults under “Madi’s Horse Lessons” which include horse camps, The Vision Charter Academy students, and a therapeutic riding program. Recently Lezah purchased her own horse, Reggie, with whom she hopes to partner for many years as she continues to learn about the powerful human-horse bond and the massive impact horses can have on people’s lives. In addition to horses, Lezah enjoys her own ‘herd’ of family time in the outdoors and traveling the world.