How to Market Your Horse Business with Denise Alvarez

40 Episodes
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By: Denise Alvarez

How do I build a horse business so I can keep doing what I love to do? Do I need a website—and if so, what do I even put on it? How can I get my social media following to grow? Does email marketing really work? Welcome to How to Market Your Horse Business where you’ll get all of these questions answered and more! Each week, host Denise Alvarez from Stormlily Marketing breaks down marketing into bite-size bits and gives you actionable and doable tips and strategies that you can apply to your horse business. Plus, you’ll hear f...

3 Crucial Areas You Can’t Afford to Ignore as You Grow Your Equine Business
#212
Today at 9:00 AM

If your leads and income feel inconsistent or your marketing lately feels like a lot of effort without results, this episode will help you pinpoint what’s really keeping your equine business stuck.

You’ll uncover the 3 areas of your business you can’t afford to ignore if you want to grow sustainably.. And, of course, I’ll help you make a game plan to take the first step.

Because the magic is in the action-taking. :)

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about here and get li...


Behind the Scenes of Equine Affaire: Lessons in Marketing, Leadership, and Growth with Coagi Long
#211
03/25/2026

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of Equine Affaire with Coagi Long, president and owner of one of the largest equine expos in the country.

But this isn’t just a conversation about events. We talk about what it really takes to market to multiple audiences, why a “well-rounded” approach matters more than chasing trends, and how Coagi has built and led a team that’s stayed committed for years.

You’ll also hear her perspective on staying inspired, navigating challenges, and making decisions that support long-term growth, not just short-term wins.


Hitting a Ceiling in Your Horse Business? This Crucial Shift Is the Key to Consistent Growth
#210
03/19/2026

If your horse business feels like it’s hitting a ceiling, this episode will show you why. And because you know I’m all about the practical application, you’ll also learn exactly what to do about it.

I’m breaking down the crucial shift from operating like an employee in your business to stepping into the role of CEO, even if you’re a company of one.

This is about a crucial shift in how you lead your equine business.

With that shift as our foundation, you’ll discover 5 CEO habits that drive consis...


Where to Find Your Next Clients: 7 Lead Sources for Horse Businesses
#209
03/13/2026

Looking for new clients and customers?

Smart move. Because every sustainable equine business requires a steady pipeline of leads.

New people discovering you, learning about your work, and eventually becoming paying clients.

That’s true whether you’re booked out with a waiting list or you have openings you’re doing your best to fill.

And while there isn’t one magic button that suddenly fills your calendar overnight, there are several reliable ways to get in front of the right people.

In this episode, I’m walking you through se...


Behind the Scenes: What's It Like In My 1:1 Coaching? [with Susan Friedland & Susan DiFelice]
#208
03/04/2026

Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes inside Take the Reins, my 6-month 1:1 coaching experience for equestrian entrepreneurs.

You’ll hear directly from two clients — Susan Friedland (equestrian author & speaker) and Susan DiFelice (equestrian artist & illustrator) — about where they started, what shifted, and how clarity and strategy helped them move forward with confidence.

If you’ve been wondering whether 1:1 coaching is right for you, this episode will help you identify what kind of support you actually need in this season of your business.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summar...


How to Use AI As Your Marketing Assistant Without Losing Your Voice
#207
02/25/2026

AI is everywhere right now — ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc. And, as an equine business owner, you’ve probably heard, “If you’re not using it, you’re falling behind.”

But what if that’s the wrong way to think about it?

In this episode, we’re talking about how to use AI for your equine business without losing your voice and giving up your power as the owner and strategist of your business.

I’ll walk you through a proactive approach to using AI as your marketing assistant. Plus, you’ll get three practical ways you c...


How Venessa Wood Built a Mission-Driven Business with Ag Women Connect
#206
02/19/2026

What does it really take to build a mission-driven business that aligns with your faith, values, and season of life?

In this conversation, Venessa Wood, founder of Ag Women Connect, shares the real, practical lessons she’s learned while growing a purpose-centered community. From getting involved in rooms that stretch you, to letting go of the pressure to always be “on,” to trusting that not everyone is meant to stay in your circle, she gets real about what building from the ground up looks like.

We talk about leadership, perspective, boundaries, and why sometimes the most p...


My Sales Workshop Didn't Sell. Here's What I Think Went Wrong
#205
02/12/2026

Even as a marketing strategist, not every launch or sell hits the mark. And today I’m pulling back the curtain on one that didn’t.

In this episode, I’m sharing the honest truth about why my recent “Sell with Confidence” sales workshop didn’t sell the way I hoped, and what I learned from it.

You’ll hear three key reasons it missed the mark (including one that might surprise you), plus three simple things you can do this week to strategically plan your 2026 sales rhythm so you can hit your revenue goals for the year.<...


How to Stay Grounded in Your Horse Business When the World Feels Heavy
#204
02/04/2026

How do you hold feeling unsettled by what’s happening in the world around you while also trying to run a business, care for your family, and show up in the barn like normal?

In this episode, we’re talking about what to do when the world feels heavy and your usual motivation just isn’t there. I’ll walk you through a simple, practical process to help you pause, reset, and move forward with clarity, without ignoring what’s going on around you or within you.

If you’ve been feeling the weight of it all and w...


Learn to Close Sales Without the Cringe With Sausha Davis
#203
01/28/2026

If you’ve ever felt like sales doesn’t fit your style or personality, this episode is for you.

Sales strategist and ranch gal Sausha Davis shares a refreshing, psychology-based approach to selling in your equine business.

You’ll learn how to handle objections without pressure, create buying environments that feel natural, and shift your mindset so you can close more sales with confidence.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about here and get links I mentioned.”) are over at Stormlily.com/203

🐴 The...


3 Powerful Sales Practices for Equine Entrepreneurs
#202
01/24/2026

Whether you’ve seen the movie or not, P.T. Barnum offers a great example of both what not to do and what to do when you’re trying to convert someone to make a buying decision.

In this episode, I’m taking you beyond the move to highlight two common mistakes equine entrepreneurs make when selling (you might not even realize you’re doing them). Plus, we’ll uncover three powerful shifts to help you sell with more confidence, clarity, and connection.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talk...


Grow Your Reach & Revenue: How to Build an Affiliate Program That Works in the Equine Industry with Jamie Birch
#201
01/16/2026

Thinking about launching an affiliate program for your horse business, but not sure where to start or if it’s even worth it?

In this episode, I’m joined by affiliate marketing expert Jamie Birch to explore how equine brands and businesses can create affiliate programs to grow their revenue and amplify their reach.

You’ll learn what makes an affiliate program successful in the horse industry, common mistakes to avoid, and how to start building yours today. 

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about her...


What Kenny Chesney Taught Me About Business (Every Equine Entrepreneur Should Hear This)
#200
01/09/2026

Even if you’re not a country music fan, there’s something in this episode for you.

After reading Kenny Chesney’s memoir, I walked away with a surprising list of lessons that directly apply to growing an equine business. And, of course, I had to share them with you.

This one’s part story, part strategy, and full of practical guidance for growing your equine business with purpose.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about here and get links I mentioned.”) are over at Storml...


You Launched. Now What? The 4-Step Debrief That Changes Everything
#199
12/19/2025

You hit publish. You launched the thing. Now what?

Before you move on to the next big idea or offer, this episode will walk you through a simple 4-step post-launch debrief that helps you actually learn from your results.

I’m sharing real examples from my own recent launch and practical questions to ask so you can grow, refine, and make your next launch even more effective.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about here and get links I mentioned.”) are over at Storml...


The Bold Business Move Most Equine Entrepreneurs Avoid With Chelsea Lothrop
#198
12/10/2025

Most equine entrepreneurs avoid the hard stuff — but not Chelsea Lothrop.

In this episode, you’ll hear how leaning into uncomfortable, scary, and uncertain decisions helped Chelsea build a business that’s not only successful but deeply aligned.

From pricing to mindset to marketing, she reveals the bold moves that made the biggest difference in her growth.

If you’ve been holding back from something because it feels hard, this conversation will give you the clarity and encouragement to move forward.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of...


Realign Your Strategy {The 2026 Reset Day 3}
12/05/2025

✨ Access full replays + daily workbook through Friday, December 12 → Stormlily.com/reset

✨ Join my growth-focused coaching circles for equestrian entrepreneurs ready to leave striving behind and build from a place of purpose:

Enroll in The Business Barn Collective  → Stormlily.com/collective


Reconnect to Your Why {The 2026 Reset Day 1}
12/05/2025

✨ Access full replays + daily workbook through Friday, December 12 → Stormlily.com/reset

✨ Join my growth-focused coaching circles for equestrian entrepreneurs ready to leave striving behind and build from a place of purpose:

Enroll in The Business Barn Collective  → Stormlily.com/collective


Refine Your Direction {The 2026 Reset Day 2}
12/05/2025

✨ Access full replays + daily workbook through Friday, December 12 → Stormlily.com/reset

✨ Join my growth-focused coaching circles for equestrian entrepreneurs ready to leave striving behind and build from a place of purpose:

Enroll in The Business Barn Collective  → Stormlily.com/collective


Sales Feel Flat? Try This 2-Part Fix
#197
11/25/2025

Yes, the way people buy is shifting. When it comes to online sales, you may have heard it called a trust recession.

But that doesn’t mean they’re not buying. It means your sales strategy needs to evolve.

In this short but powerful episode, we’ll talk about two essentials your marketing may be missing — and how bringing them back could re-ignite your results. If you're planning for holiday sales or a New Year relaunch, this one's a must-listen.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked...


When Your Equine Business Is Asking for a Pivot (But You’re Afraid to Make the Move)
#196
11/22/2025

Feeling the nudge that something in your business needs to shift, but scared to pivot?

Let's uncover the three hidden mindset blocks that keep equestrian entrepreneurs stuck in place, even when they know a change is needed.

You’ll learn why pivoting isn’t failure, why clarity matters more than hustle, and how to take your first aligned step forward.

And, why permission to pivot might be the most important gift you give yourself heading into 2026.

💫 Join The 2026 Reset, my free 3-part mini-workshop series to help you reconnect with your why and...


When Your Equine Business Loses Its Shine, Remember This
#195
11/13/2025

When you’ve been building your horse business for a while, it’s easy to get stuck in the grind and lose sight of why you started in the first place.

In this personal episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes to share the heart behind my own business and why reconnecting with your deeper purpose matters more than ever as you grow.

If you’ve been feeling like your business has lost its spark, this conversation is your reminder that purpose fuels momentum.

You’ll walk away with three powerful reflection questions...


How to Get Paid for the Products You Already Recommend with Jamie Birch
#194
10/30/2025

Are you constantly recommending products to your clients, students, or barn friends?

If you’re a horse pro or equestrian entrepreneur who already recommends products to your friends and clients, this episode will show you an easy (and ethical) way to get paid for it.

Affiliate marketing expert Jamie Birch joins me to break down how horse business owners can turn authentic product recommendations into a legit stream of passive income. No slimy sales tactics or massive audiences required.

You’ll hear simple, actionable steps to get started today (even if you’re not te...


Your Next Level Starts When You Stop Doing This In Your Equine Business
#193
10/24/2025

“Maybe I’m just boring.”

That’s what a client said to me when evaluating the results of a recent promotion. 

How easy it is for us as entrepreneurs to internalize our results! 

Before you blame your offer, your audience, or yourself… there’s one question I want you to ask: What are you measuring your success against?

In this episode, you'll uncover why unrealistic expectations might be keeping you from making the shifts that will actually move the needle in your business.

This isn’t your typical “don’t compare yourself t...


Why Business Coaching Isn't for Everyone [And How to Know If It's for You]
#192
10/15/2025

If you’re lacking clarity on how to market your equine business and you’re tired of trying to do it all alone, business coaching *might* be the key to unlocking your growth. But, is it really for everyone?

As a business coach, I can honestly tell you that not everyone should hire a business coach.

So, how do you know if your’e ready? How do you know if it’s for you right now?

In this episode, we’re getting real about the reasons equestrian entrepreneurs hold back from hiring a coach and...


You’re Not Bad at Marketing Your Equine Business. You’re Just Missing This
#191
10/09/2025

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Why isn’t my marketing working?”

I honestly doubt that it’s because you’re bad at marketing. It usually goes a little deeper than that.

What if you were just missing a few key pieces that would actually make your marketing feel doable and effective? And, sometimes even fun. (It’s possible. Promise.)

In this episode, I’m breaking down 3 likely reasons you’re feeling stuck in a never-ending marketing loop. You know I’m all about the practical action. So you’ll also discover how to finally get out o...


4 Questions to Prepare Your Head & Heart for Q4
#190
10/01/2025

If your year has felt like a whirlwind, full of both goodness and growing pains, you’re not alone.

In this short but powerful episode, I’m sharing four intentional questions that came out of a recent Equestrian Mastermind session. Each question is designed to help you reflect on what’s been, and refocus on what matters most as you head into Q4.

Whether you journal through them on your own or process them with a trusted biz friend, these questions will help you pause, reset, and finish the year with clarity and purpose.

...


The Power of Knowing Your Strength & Owning It With Megan Hensley The Donkey Farrier
#189
09/17/2025

If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to do all the things in your equine business, this episode will be a breath of fresh air.

Megan Hensley, known as The Donkey Farrier, shares how she built a thriving brand by focusing on one thing — and doing it with excellence.

You’ll hear how a mindset of enoughness, the courage to ask for help, and a willingness to keep learning (and unlearning!) have shaped her success. Most of all, you’ll be inspired to embrace your own strengths and build a business that reflects who you real...


Let Go of the Timeline & Trust the Process With Brooke Drassal
#188
09/12/2025

If you’ve ever wondered when things will finally “click” in your business, Brooke Drassal's story will speak to you.

In this episode, we highlight the power of staying faithful to the dreams you have for your equine business — even when the timeline looks different than you expected.

For Brooke (like many of you), the horses came first. But, she realized early on that it takes more than passion to build a sustainable business.

You’ll hear how Brooke leaned into patience and persistence, doing the work without rushing the outcome.

Her story...


Course, Community, or Coach? How to Know Which One Is Right for Your Equine Business
09/11/2025

If you’re listening to this episode, I already know something about you: you’re growth-minded. You’ve got ideas, and you’re not afraid to take action to bring them to life as you build the horse business of your dreams. 

You also value learning from others — you don’t want to do this in a silo. And even though it’s just you and me here through audio, I hope this podcast helps you feel a little less alone on the journey.

But maybe you’re ready to go beyond listening. Maybe you’ve been considering...


Social Media Has Changed. Don't Let Your Equine Business Be Left Behind
#187
09/05/2025

The social media landscape has seen a shift over the past year. What does it mean for how you market your equine business? 

Let’s talk about it! 

We’re diving into the specific ways the social media landscape has changed for equine businesses. Then, I’ll give you four specific ways you can apply these changes to your social media strategy so you can grow your equine business. 

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about here and get links I mentioned.”) are over at Stormli...


When Hard Work Isn’t Enough (Here’s What You May Be Overlooking)
#186
08/29/2025

Hard work is hardly ever the problem for horse people—you already know how to put in the hours.

That means, if your horse business still isn’t growing the way you want, it may be because something is missing. That’s why we’re diving the two essentials you need in place before any marketing strategy can truly work.

You’ll learn why they matter, how they filter your decisions, and how they set you up for success no matter which marketing methods you use. Social media, websites, ecommerce, advertising, in-person events — it all comes back t...


5 Distractions Getting In the Way of Your Equine Business Growth
#185
08/23/2025

Sometimes you know exactly what you want in your business. You’re a hard worker. You’re dedicated. You’re in. So, what’s getting in the way?

Let’s uncover 5 common distractions that may be slowing you down, and how to recognize if they’re showing up for you. Just as important, we’ll dive into 4 practical ways to move past them so you can stay focused on building the equine business you actually want.

If you’re ready to let go of what’s holding you back so you can take clear steps forward, this one’...


If You Keep Saying This, No Wonder Your Equine Business Feels Stuck
#184
08/07/2025

If your equine business growth feels stalled, the problem might not be your marketing tactics — it might be your mindset.

Oftentimes, when sales aren’t going as expected, we look outside at why our marketing isn’t working. Pricing, audience, reach, message, methods — and it all matters.

But today we’re making an unexpected shift – it’s time to look inward.

For today’s episode, I want you to evaluate the story you tell yourself about your launch, your business, and your leadership or marketing abilities.

Why? As the business owner, you are also a k...


Ditch Generic Messaging & Craft a Brand Story with Amy McGann
#183
07/23/2025

If your marketing feels scattered or isn’t converting, your brand story might be the missing piece.

In this episode, I talk with branding strategist and copywriter Amy McGann about how equestrian entrepreneurs can move beyond surface-level messaging to build a brand rooted in real substance.

You’ll learn how to communicate what makes your business unique and create marketing that actually connects. If you’ve ever struggled to explain what you do—or why someone should choose you—this conversation will help you show up with clarity and confidence.

Show Notes (also known as “...


Mid-Year Marketing Reset: 4 Steps to Realign and Refocus Your Horse Business
#182
07/17/2025

In the middle of a busy season, it’s easy to lose sight of your goals and wonder if your marketing efforts are actually working. That’s why a mid-year reset isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

In this episode, you’ll get four simple but powerful steps to help you reflect, refocus, and realign your business with where you actually want to go. If you’re craving clarity and direction for the rest of 2025, this episode is for you.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of what we talked about her...


Protect Your Horse Business: 5 Legal Essentials from Equine Attorney Polly Hey
#181
07/10/2025

Equine attorney and lifelong horsewoman Polly Hey is breaking down the legal essentials every equestrian business owner should know.

From contracts and liability waivers to sale agreements and business structure, Polly shares practical advice to help you protect your business without the overwhelm.

Whether you’re a trainer, coach, or barn owner, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of what you need in place—and why.

If you’ve ever wondered what “equine law” really means for your day-to-day operations, this conversation is for you.

Disclaimer:
The followin...


4 Powerful Ways to Stand Out from the Competition in Your Horse Business
#180
06/04/2025

If you're running a horse business and feel like you're constantly getting lost in the noise—you're not alone. 

Maybe you've looked around and thought, “Everyone is doing the same thing I’m doing... how am I supposed to stand out?”

Here’s the good news: Standing out in your horse business doesn’t mean being louder—it means being more you. 

In this episode, you’ll learn 4 powerful ways to rise above the noise of competition, attract your best-fit clients, and confidently leave comparison behind.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quic...


From Arena to Online: How Nikki Hall Turned Her Riding Curriculum into an Online Business
#179
05/30/2025

If you ever dream of creating more freedom and impact in your horse business, this episode is full of encouragement and practical takeaways.

In this episode, you’ll meet Nikki Hall of Horse Sense Learning Levels and hear how she turned her hands-on riding curriculum into a successful online business.

Nikki shares her journey from running a full-scale riding academy to creating scalable resources that support instructors and students worldwide. We talk about overcoming burnout, listening to your audience, and building a business that supports your life—not the other way around.

Show Note...


AI and Your Horse Business: 4 Ways You Can Use AI to Amplify Your Marketing
#178
05/21/2025

Let’s be real—marketing your horse business can feel like a full-time job on top of, well, your actual full-time job running the business. And while AI can’t muck stalls or feed horses (yet!), it can help you save time and get more done when it comes to your marketing.

But before you start asking ChatGPT to run your business for you, let’s get one thing straight: AI is a tool, not a magic wand. You still need to know your audience, your voice, and your message. That’s the heart of effective marketing—and no robot...


6 Costly Social Media Mistakes That Are Holding Back Your Equine Business
#177
05/14/2025

If you’re showing up on social media but not seeing results in your horse business, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong. You just need a better plan.

In this episode, you’ll uncover 6 costly mistakes equestrian entrepreneurs often make  — the ones that are keeping your content from turning followers into paying clients.

You’ll walk away with simple, practical shifts you can make to finally see your marketing efforts start to work for your business—not just your algorithm.

Show Notes (also known as “Where to read a quick summary of...