In our latest episode of the Dear Horse World podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Niki Flundra, a remarkable ranch woman, stunt rider, and devoted mother, who shared her profound insights into the art of horsemanship and the intricacies of balancing motherhood with an adventurous equestrian lifestyle.
The Essence of Identity: Ranch Life and Motherhood
Niki Flundra begins by reflecting on her identity, one that intricately weaves together her roles as a ranch wife and mom. With three boys and an expansive 8,000-acre ranch, Niki embraces the vastness of their world, filled with cattle, horses, and an enchanting landscape she wouldn’t trade for anything else. Her story paints a vivid picture of a life deeply rooted in tradition and love for her family and animals.
Teaching Through Living: Raising Children with Horses
Niki generously shares her perspective on raising children in such an environment, highlighting how horses instill resilience, work ethic, and compassion in her boys. The lessons learned from these majestic creatures, she notes, mirror those essential teachings in parenting—patience and discipline, which are pivotal in nurturing both children and horses alike.
Crafting Purpose and Motivation on the Ranch
The podcast delves deeper into Niki’s insights on horsemanship, particularly how ranch work enhances a horse's purpose and motivation. It's a symbiotic relationship where both horses and people find gratification in roles that are meaningful and rewarding. Nikki emphasizes how these principles can transform the traditional views on training and riding into a more holistic approach, one that prioritizes understanding and cooperation.
Navigating Fear and Embracing Change
Niki's journey into motherhood naturally altered her relationship with risk. Despite her past fearlessness in tackling high-stakes stunts and performances, the safety of her children now shapes her perspective. Her openness about these changes underscores a universal truth many equestrian mothers face—balancing the thrill of the ride with the responsibilities of parenthood.
The Noble Art of Colt Starting
As a co-founder of Heart of the Horse, Niki elaborates on the critical and often under-appreciated art of colt starting. She compares this foundational phase to raising children, both requiring a thoughtful, nurturing approach to set up a lifelong framework for success. Her advice is invaluable for anyone looking to start their young horses on the right path, stressing the importance of aligning with trainers who resonate with one's personal goals and values.
Experiencing Liberty: A Dance of Trust and Freedom
Finally, Niki invites us into the world of liberty riding—a breathtaking discipline of trust without tack. She encourages equestrians to pursue this liberating aspect of horsemanship, offering a glimpse into its addictive nature as horses and humans form profound connections based on mutual respect and understanding.
As Niki Flundra exemplifies through her life and work, horsemanship is not merely a discipline but a beautiful amalgamation of art, sport, and way of life. Her story is a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and boundless possibilities that lie within the heart of those who passionately pursue a life with horses. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a curious listener, Nikki's experiences serve as a beacon for anyone seeking to deepen their connection with both horses and themselves.