Trainer Alumni Success Stories
PROGRAMS Trainer Alumni Success Stories
Horse Training Trade School Graduates
Max and Alexis Morin
Ecurie Morin Performance Horses
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
Both Max and Alexis are graduates of the John and Josh Lyons Certification program. Max, originally from France, began his equine career in the United States working directly with Josh Lyons. During that time, he completed both the Lyons Legacy Certification and the Accreditation course with Josh Lyons. These two programs built and solidified Max’s foundation as a trainer and horseman.
Following many years of being a tutor of Josh’s programs, Max was invited to become the first Master Trainer representing the Lyons Legacy philosophy and training methods, a huge honor.
Since Max’s time with the Lyons, he has had opportunities to work with some great trainers including Al Dunning, Jordan Larson, Morey Fisk, Ruben Vandorp, and Nick Dowers to name a few.
Max and Alexis use the Lyons Legacy training philosophy every day in their work which has proven its worth after Max recently made the 2020 NRHA Futurity Open Finals. Max and Alexis look forward to future success and opportunities to grow their business with the continued support of Josh Lyons and his team.
“Josh is an amazing horseman, trainer, and teacher. His attention to each individual student allows them to become the best version of themselves while also teaching its students to provide the utmost care to its horses to help prevent injury to both rider and horse.” ~Max Morin
Richie Wingfield
Richie Wingfield Horsemanship
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
In 2004, having achieved his certification, and in 2006, having achieved his accredited trainer qualifications, Richie Wingfield became a Lyon’s Legacy Elite Trainer. Richie is a forward-thinking trainer, continually striving to be at the forefront of industry standards and the ever-changing needs of the horse riding and training community. This highly sought-after trainer has established himself and his business through his dedication to meeting his client’s needs over a variety of disciplines.
Richie’s goal, at all levels is to see his clients and their horses reach their dreams and achieve the goals they have set, and then to encourage and inspire them to set new, exciting goals that they work towards, together. Richie has the ability to break his conditioned-response training method down into individualized steps, thus making him a truly versatile trainer for all levels and disciplines.
This dedicated family man is committed to his personal family as well as to the success of his family of clients. Richie can often be found in the demonstration arena at expos, working along-side his mentor and good friend, Josh Lyons. Richie’s natural ability to relate to his audience and clients, putting all at ease no matter their level of horsemanship, riding and training, makes Richie a crowd and client favorite.
“Josh’s programs are the best to improve your horsemanship and learn a more effective way of teaching and learning for you and your horses.” ~ Richie Wingfield
Brian Thomas
Smith Rock Trail Rides
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
In 2006, I completed the John & Josh Lyons Certified Trainers Program. It was Josh Lyons who gave me the inspiration to further my equine education even more. In 2007 and 2008, I was given the opportunity, by Josh to work with him as an instructor, teaching the Certified Trainers Program . An opportunity of a lifetime, that I will forever be thankful for.
Kriss Costa
(831)801-5427
horsewomenbygrace.com
Ride, Relax, Reflect, Renew, Rejoice! That’s the mantra of Kriss Costa, a Lyons Legacy graduate who turned her passion for horses and God into an experience for women looking to connect over horses and the outdoors. Costa launched Horsewomen by Grace 10 years ago and now offers two retreats a year. The spiritual excursions offer participants a chance to ride, reflect – well, you get the idea. “I had the privilege of apprenticing with John Lyons and I received more than I could have hoped for,” Costa said. “I learned so much about working with horses and their owners but what I was unexpectedly blessed with was a closer, deeper relationship with God.”
After searching for a place that offered such retreats and finding none, Costa said God nudged her to offer such a program – so she did. This year the first of two retreats will be held in July at Tri C Ranch in Wyoming. A second retreat will be offered in November. “When I offered the first retreat, I thought it would be a one-time deal,” she said. “(God) let me know right away there would be a second, and more.” The retreats are limited to 35 women. Some bring their own horses and those who want to ride but don’t have a horse will be provided one.
Costa doesn’t advertise or promote her retreats. She relies on word of mouth. “God will tell them – it’s whoever God invites. He brings together the people who need to be together,” she said recalling how one group shared the experience of having lost children. Another group had members recently widowed. She said attendees don’t know topics of discussion before they arrive. “We don’t try to coordinate too much – we let God do that,” she said.
Registration is available online. Cost of the upcoming retreat is $250 plus the cost of lodging at the Triple C. Details about this retreat and others can be found at horsewomenbygrace.com Scholarships are available to women serving in the military or the wives, mothers or daughters of law enforcement or military personnel. Scholarships are also available to women facing emotional, physical or financial hardships. When she isn’t leading a retreat, Costa continues her work training horses and people. She recently added firearm training to her repertoire. “I will always be grateful to John Lyons for teaching and inspiring me how to be a better horseman and partner to my horses, as well as to step out, and not be afraid to spread God’s love and word.”
Dina Miller
Happy Healthy Horsey LLC
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
Taking the certification with Josh Lyons – is the main reason I ended up in Colorado. I will always be grateful for the things I learned during the course with him. It was absolutely invaluable and I use a lot of what he taught me during that time. I believed I could grow and learn a lot about training horses when I first signed up – but I had NO clue what it truly entailed. Thank you for the lessons Josh – I can confidently say I enjoy being part of the middle of the movie so that the horses and owners have a good ending. I can definitely say that my life time in this career is hopefully going to be a good movie as well! We are still in the middle though! Thank you for the lessons Josh – I can confidently say I enjoy being part of the middle of the movie so that the horses and owners have a good ending. I can definitely say that my life time in this career is hopefully going to be a good movie as well! We are still in the middle though!
Randy Helm
Arizona Correctional Ind.
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
In 2011, I loaded up 2 horses and left Arizona for Tennessee not knowing that over in 6 short weeks my life would change my forever. I was 56 years old and had no intention of changing careers to train horses. My time working with Josh Lyons changed all of that.
I had trained horses, been to clinics, watched videos and DVD’s but the Lyons Legacy certification took me to an entirely different level. The tools that were now in my toolbox gave me confidence in training and a desire to keep growing and learning.
In 2012, less than a year after returning from the certification I was hired to develop a new program for the Arizona State Prison’s Wild Horse Inmate Program.
The methods and routines I learned from Josh were put into practice with men who had never even touched a horse and the results were nothing short of miraculous. The Lyons approach to horse training is very transferrable (almost everything builds on the last thing) so even people with zero horse experience can begin to understand it and put it into practice.
The result was, horses and inmates’ lives were radically changed which opened the door for documentaries and news stories here in the US and internationally, including USA Today, NBC, ABC, Fox News and Animal Planet.
The Lyons Legacy certification also connected me with lifelong friends and amazing trainers.
Today I continue working for the Prison, conduct clinics, cowboy churches, and demonstrations in the US and abroad.
Very few things in my life have been as transforming as Lyons Legacy.
Officer Loisel Cruz
Miami Police Department
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
Under Josh Lyons’ guidance and training, I observed a remarkable improvement in my own ability and confidence as a trainer as well as the two horses I had brought with me to the certification program. Josh has a very natural method of teaching you ways to better communicate with your horse and understand how their mind works. With this increased understanding of how to effectively communicate with your horse, you truly feel like you have a real practical ability to resolve any issues you may encounter with your horse.
Through Josh’s certification program and teachings, I was able to take my skills as a rider and trainer to the next level. I cannot recommend the John & Josh Lyons Horsemanship Certification Program enough as it is truly a wealth of knowledge and provides you with real world experience and skills that can be applied to any equestrian activity.
Eva Lynn Beiler
Teton Ridge USA
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
Josh Lyons has been my source of inspiration and motivation and always will be. If you ever get the chance to work or ride with him.. DO IT. Not only is he the best teacher, down-to-earth, he’s always “got your back”, full of wisdom and endless knowledge in the equine industry, but also one of the most respectable horsemen & people you’ll meet! Working alongside him the last year and 7 months has been super educational and such a blessing in so many ways. Something I’ll forever be grateful for!
Josh Carmel
Fur & Iron Ranch
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
In the November of 2018, I met Josh Lyons at a benefit clinic. My family had always been involved in the standardbred racing industry, but at the age of 18, I joined the USMC and had not had the opportunity to be involved in horses of my own since. I wanted to simply become a better rider. I learned that the programs were approved through the VA, I attended the Accreditation Program in January of 2019. Since then, I have had the opportunity to also complete the Cert. Program, as well as a 5-day Trainers Clinic. I have learned so much by attending these programs, not only about horsemanship, but about how to be patient and have understanding. As a veteran who suffers from PTSD, I learned a lot about myself. I would highly recommend these programs to my fellow veterans. No matter what level of riding you are at, Josh works with you to achieve your dreams and goals. I am thankful to have had these opportunities.
Phillip Elder
Horse Sense USA
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
As I look back on my Certification/Accreditation experience, I see it as the most significant Equine experience of my life. It was not only time on task with the most knowledgeable horse trainer in America, but it was both specific to the trainer’s needs and a huge challenge. It was rewarding far beyond what I anticipated and was worth every penny spent. It was not just an event, but rather the beginning of a journey, a quest for excellence. It planted the seeds for a more profound understanding of the most noble of God’s creatures, the horse. Among the many lessons we learned how to become introspective enough to be critical of ourselves so we could continue to learn especially if we have expectations of continuous improvement. The Cert/Accreditation Program is many things, but right at the top of the list is the total support and unlimited access to Josh Lyons. Very unique. I am grateful to Josh and Jana Lyons for their persistence and patience and for their dedication to this industry for years.
Eddie Ray Cantrell
Lyons Legacy Certified & Accredited Trainer
It’s funny how people tend to put me in a box as a horse trainer. I have two buckles from the Lyons Legacy boys. John and Josh Lyons are two of the best if not the two best horsemen in all the world. Their teaching and training methods are amazing, yet amazingly simple. When I got my Certified Trainer buckle John Lyons said ” Now go make that buckle better”. WOW!!!!!! Talk about lack of ego and full blown proof that John and Josh Lyons don’t turn out “cookie cutter” trainers.
Putting us (Lyons Legacy trainers) in a box is a major slap in the face to all of us and especially to the two men who stand at the top of it all. Josh Lyons is one of my best friends in the world who just so happens to be “one great horseman.” We were friends before I became one of his trainers, and Josh and I have talked about all my other influences in the horse world and Josh is the first to sit and listen intently to what you are saying and to what you are trying to get done with your training. Josh (and) John are always open to new ideas if they have merit. John told me just the other day that “we all learned from somebody else” none of this is completely 100% our own. Does that sound like a box? Does that sound like a cookie cutter. I’ve heard stuff like Josh is all about performance riding. Really? I had a barrel horse to train so what did I do? Got some Sherry Cervi videos because she is kinda good at barrel racing and what do you know!!!! She’s teaching most if not all that the Lyons boys are. I talked at length to some dressage trainers and what do you know! They teach a lot of the same things the Lyons Boys do! I’ve talked with competitive trail riders and they were all ears when we talked training because what “WE” do is valid within their discipline. I’m a HUGE FAN of trainers like Martin Black, Buck Branaman, Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt. I love their “Buckaroo” or Spanish Vaquero way of horse training. Being a native resident of Kentucky I don’t get to practice those buckaroo traditions as most of my saddle time is spent with others and their horses. Folks here either don’t know about the “Buckaroo” way of doing things or don’t understand it. Josh and I have talked at length about how I love that type of training and he is the very first to support me. But guess what? You guessed it, Lyons Legacy training closely parallels the Vaquero way of doing things in a lot of ways. My wife likes to trail ride. To get her the best horse possible I’ve looked in a lot of directions for something that I may be able to help her and her horse get better. John Lyons is a great trail rider, and his methods are suited GREAT for trail riders.
I tell people in clinics all the time, I could have trained under anyone that I wanted too… But I chose the Lyons boys. Why? They are genuine, knowledgeable, wonderful horse people whose lack of ego is amazing. They are a credit to all horses everywhere, they don’t put me in a box and probably the most important thing… their simple, common sense way of communicating to the horse… JUST – MAKES – SENSE. I recently said this on here, I take a little here, a little there, throw in a whole lot of the Lyons Boys, and some of my nearly 50 years and it works pretty darn good for me… Train with whoever makes sense to you, but don’t put yourself in a box. Parelli folks think he’s the best, Clinton followers think he’s the best, Chris Cox (who is the closest to John and Josh as there is out there) think he’s the best. Ken McNabb followers (a John Lyons Certified Trainer) think he’s the best. I own written works an videos of them all and I study every magazine article in every magazine as well… don’t put me in a box; I’m claustrophobic I hate restrictive places!
Beth Myer
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
God pointed me in the direction of attending Josh Lyons certification program and I thought I was going to go simply to be a better trainer and learn more about horses. However, Josh changed my whole life and a lot of my personal views. To overcome brokenness especially by people who I trusted the most was difficult but Josh was the greatest mentor for me and I am forever grateful that God opened the doors for me to spend so many hours with such an incredible man!
Michelle Eccles
Eccles Family Farm
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
Today my heart is full because of something nice that happened to someone I really care about.
One of my lesson students, Hope. For those of you who have met Hope, she is a good kid! Obsessed with horses, always willing to learn, loves to be with them, and can’t get enough. She has very supportive parents too.
Well, I heard she was doing a research paper for school, about John Lyons. Remembering how I was once I first learned about John Lyons when I was 15, (and why I got into this business) I couldn’t WAIT to give her all the books I owned, to help her with her research paper. I thought then, maybe I would text my friend, and mentor, Josh Lyons just to see if he would have the time to possible answer a couple questions for Hope, about his dad. Of course, Josh being who he is….he said yes.
Well, today, not only did Josh take Hope’s call to answer some questions….Josh put his dad, John Lyons on the phone for her. John spoke with her for some time. This to me, is amazing. They made that little girls WHOLE world. I can feel her happiness. It makes me so proud to have not only learned about horsemanship from these men, but what an influence they have all around. They are such good, positive people, and I admire them tons. Anyone who has had the privilege to ride, talk to, or be around these guys, knows the blessed feeling I am explaining. I admire you guys and continue to learn so much from you!
Monica Erman
Peacemaker Training
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
In 1998, I met several John Lyons Certified Trainers at an event in Missouri called Ride with the Stars. These trainers were extremely eager to help me with my horse and the capability they demonstrated inspired and encouraged me to reach for my dreams! The John & Josh Lyons Certification Program gave me the tools and knowledge to build my business and watch it grow. I have recommended the Lyons Certification Programs without reservation, noting especially the tremendous communication, professionalism and people skills John and Josh possess.
Since completing the Certification Program, I have written many training articles for national publications, served as a clinician for several horse and mule expos, was hired as an instructor during a camping trip in Monument Valley, Utah, and have competed in two Extreme Mustang Makeover competitions with success.
With the knowledge and experience I’ve gained from John & Josh Lyons, I have more clients than I can keep up with. I have clients at prominent boarding stables in my area, as well as teach weekend clinics in Pennsylvania and Missouri. I am able to customize my business in the way I want, making my personal dreams come true! My passion – what puts the light in my eyes – is learning new and better horse training techniques. John and Josh are faithful to offer advanced education to every trainer who wants it! I love being a John and Josh Lyons Certified Trainer! I always look forward to learning fantastic techniques every time I attend a Lyons educational event, and I’m never disappointed.
Louisa Heald
Powderhorn Ranch
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
I believe in chasing your dreams. You don’t have to follow what everyone else does, get out of your comfort zone and go for it. I knew I wanted to pursue my passion with horses. The Lord made that clear and led me all the way here and will still lead me to my next adventure.
I’ve been at Lyons Legacy for a little over a week now and have learned so much! Josh has taught me a lot about life, horse training and myself. My first couple days I was so nervous. I looked around and thought to myself, “why am I here?” I saw Josh look right at me and I thought he was going to yell at me and tell me all I’m doing wrong but all he did was walk to me and said “just relax. this takes time. Just go have fun!”
Josh is one of the best teachers I’ve had. As well-known as he is, he’s very humble in his work and wants to help you succeed. I was feeling discouraged one morning and he looked me straight in the eye and said “horse training takes time…you can do it faster and better, but you can’t do it wrong. The only thing that you can do wrong is quit…it’s not about being naturally gifted, it’s about all the work you put into it.” I’m thankful I’m able to be here and learn from Josh, he’s helped me see and view horses and life in a different perspective. Sooo happy I get to spend 2 more months!!
Stephenie Montanye
520 Performance Horses
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
I learned great things at the Lyons trainer certification course. I overcame a lot of self-doubt I had. Josh is an amazing teacher, mentor, and friend. I am so glad to be part of The Lyons Legacy Trainers and part of the family!! This was by far the best thing for me both personally and professionals!! I had the time my life with these people. Thank-you Josh Lyons, Jana Lyons, John Lyons, and Jody Lyons for all being so wonderful!
Sadie Fisher
Unbridled Equine
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
The day I decided to join the John & Josh Lyons Certification Program was extremely exciting, yet full of uncertainty. My Dad wasn’t sure about me spending the money since I was young, and he didn’t know how much I’d end up using the education, but I had his support if that’s what I decided. It was a dream come true for me. Those 6 weeks were some of the best in my life and I never, ever regretted it! With the inspiration Josh was to me, along with the knowledge he passes on, I have been able to make a full- time business of training horses within the year I was back. From there it has progressed to lessons, privates, demos, clinics, etc. I also started summer camps for girls and am now able to reach up to 75 girls a summer, spending 4 days with them and their horses, passing on tips and training methods that I’ve learned from the Lyons over the years. I highly recommend anyone who has his programs in mind, Go for it!! My next goal now is the Accreditation Program. Also, my Dad (Who is not a horseman) is recommending my sister to do the program as well!
John Baird
Rocking B Ranch
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
I would like to thank Josh & Jana and the entire Lyons Legacy team for working so hard to be able to train Veterans through the GI Bill program. For the last 5 years they have been working with the state of Colorado and the Veterans Administration to become the only equine trainer’s school to be accredited in the Colorado Education system and the Veterans Administration. Many of us veterans simply aren’t interested in a normal collegiate education and are looking for something different. This program is perfect for any veterans wanting a career in training horses and people.
Kim Robitaille
Two Minds – One Ride
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
I chose to attend the Certification Program in order to be a horseperson, for myself. Well that was my goal initially, however I discovered during the course of our 8 months in CO that I posses a love of teaching that surprised even me. What began as a journey of self-discovery blossomed into, not only that, but a discovery of a deep passion for passing on my teachings of John & Josh Lyons to other horse owners. My husband and I moved to CO, from Canada, in 2008 in order to fully invest our time & energy into this program as I believe in the Lyons methodology of training! We invested a huge amount of time & money, seat & tears, but I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!!
What we learned in CO in the Certification Program was far more than how to be a better rider or even how to be a better teacher. We learned how to be better people, how to inspire others, how to listen to others and how to be better communicators. The Certification Program goes so much deeper than horses….it is about people…and horses.
I came back to Canada and immediately went to work building a client base of students. I have hosted Josh Lyons twice now in sold out clinics, I have hosted clinics of my own, ( I am hosting another on Aug. 4, 2012 ) I have traveled within my province of Ontario and in the province of Quebec teaching private lessons and conducting demonstrations. I have taught students from all walks of life and ages ranging from 6 – 96 years old. I have conducted training consultations, by phone, from as far away as Florida. The horse is a magnificent creature with an uncanny ability to unite people from all walks of life and all ages. The horse itself is an extraordinary teacher of how to live a better life through their unique ability to exist and appreciate “the moment”; something we should all strive to achieve.
I graduated in 2008 from the Certification Program and have since been able to reduce my hours as a Retail Sales Representative by more than 1/2 in order to continue to build my Equine Training Business. Teaching is my calling. I know this in my heart to be true. I lose myself in the process and to inspire others to achieve their goals is a blessing. I would not be on this path if it were not for Josh Lyons and the Certification Program. This program builds better people, better communicators, better problem solvers…people who can give back to their community, people who are able to unite a community. I believe there are few career opportunities that are able to make this claim and have it ring so true.
Kate Fenner
Kandoo Equine
Lyons Legacy Certified Trainer
I completed the John and Josh Lyons Certification Program in 2001. I am an Australian and at the time I was living between Connecticut and London, UK. I now reside in Australia and am working training horses and people here. I am also currently completing an Equine Science degree with the view to undertaking a PhD (Equine Learning and Cognition/Horse-Human Dyad) in the near future.
While I have not worked in the USA since completing the program, I have worked in England, Asia and Australia. The course itself was invaluable and the knowledge I gained during the program is of great benefit to me on a daily basis.
One of the many things that make the Lyons Program unique is that it is not formulaic like many other courses. It encourages individuals to think for themselves, solve problems, find new and better ways and therefore prepares them for the business (real) world. The Lyons’ name is not as renowned here in Australia (nor was it in UK or Asia) as, I imagine, their success in the USA has negated the need for them to export the brand to any significant degree. As a result of this my work has always been judged on my skill as a trainer and, I am pleased to say, has always been held in very high regard – thanks to the training I received on the Certification Program. I can honestly say that I have never had a complaint made against me, even the slightest murmur of one.
I had recently relocated from Singapore to the USA when choosing the Certification Program. I consulted many people in the industry and the advice to do the Lyons Certification Course was close to unanimous. I was working at the time at Lion Share Farm in Connecticut with Ita O’Higgens-Young (former Irish Olympic team [Dressage] member) and it was Ita that eventually convinced me. The course was longer and more expensive than some of the alternatives but it was also considerably more comprehensive and educational than any.
The Lyons Certification Program was definitely a ‘life changing’ event for me. Not only did it lead me into what is now a very successful training career but it increased both my self-esteem and self-confidence immeasurably. This will only occur when working with animals in a sustainable, ethical and humane way and producing consistently excellent results.
The Lyons Certification is an excellent program and there is no doubt that it produces top trainers. The equestrian industry is plagued with myth and mystery (cowboys and charlatans) and there are far too few recognized qualifications available. The industry would benefit greatly if the Lyons Program was to become a recognized qualification. It is well organized, professionally run and of the high standard expected of state certified qualification.
Niamh Sexton
My journey with horses began in 2016 – I was 15 years old – when my mother and I embarked on a five-day trainers clinic with very minimal horsemanship knowledge. Despite our lack of experience, we brought with us a diverse background in performance and competition, having participated in English eventing, 4-H county fairs, and rodeo performance acts. Little did we know, this clinic would mark the beginning of an incredible transformation.
Marcia Rogers
I had an appointment today and will miss the clinic today. I’m in the barn thinking about what I’m leaning so far. I’m a teacher by profession. Not all people that are knowledgeable about horses know how to teach. I have such admiration for Josh. This is a trainers clinic. Half of us are over 60 and never plan to train, two adults loped for the first time and one cried after she did it. He smiles at our little accomplishments. He helps all of us no matter how little the issue is.
I can see that he truly has a respect for people and treats everyone with respect. He’s funny and so down to earth. I’ve been to many clinics in my day simply because I love to learn. I love to get better for my horse. He’s hands down miles above them all. He has a gift not just with horses but with people. So many of them are arrogant. It’s all about them! Josh is so different. I will never be tired of learning from him. I know that you know all of this but sometimes it’s nice to hear from someone else. In Maine and especially Downeast we just love him! Hope you and the boys are enjoying the fall and a little time relaxing after a summer of traveling. You are such a special family. 💖
James Malcolm
Bradenton, FL
John & Josh Lyons Certified Trainer 2005
cell: 941-224-3935
Certification through the John & Josh Lyons Certification Program has enabled me to make a living in the horse industry. I graduated in 2005 and nearly 7 years later I am still supporting my family with the income from my horse business.
The education and credentials provided by the program offered me unique capabilities and opportunities, not offered through traditional colleges or universities, that enabled me to get started with my horse business immediately upon graduation.
I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to earn a good living in a line of work that I love.
Feel free to contact me if you would like to understand more specifically how the John & Josh Lyons Certification Program has helped me.
