Mary Ann Simonds Equine Psychology, Trust, and the Human Animal Bond

This conversation felt like a deep exhale. A remembering. With Mary Ann Simonds, we explore what happens when we stop trying to control the moment and learn to be with it. Horses, wildlife, children, and humans all exist within the same field of awareness. When we soften our attention and shift from looking at to looking with, real connection becomes possible. This episode invites you back into the adventure that is already here, alive in your body, your relationships, and the natural world around you.

Mary Ann grew up loving horses in California and has spent more than four decades as a researcher, educator, coach, and pioneer in equine psychology and human animal interaction. Her work weaves science, consciousness, and lived experience to help humans and horses reduce stress, build trust, and thrive together. We explore social behavior, boundaries, safety, awareness, and what horses can teach us about leadership, regulation, and belonging.

• Why looking with nature reveals more than looking for answers
• What horses teach us about boundaries, safety, and social intelligence
• How presence and energy shape behavior in both humans and animals
• The parallels between equine psychology, child development, and healing
• Why awareness and relationship matter more than rigid training systems

Reflection for you
Where in your life are you pushing for answers instead of allowing connection? What might shift if you softened your focus and chose to be with the moment instead?

Links and resources mentioned

• Website: https://maryannsimonds.com/
• Book A Horse By Nature available on Amazon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-simonds-26697010/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equinesbynature/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryann.simonds
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-ann-simonds-26697010/
• YouTube: