Absolutely. Owner involvement is a key part of the success of our training program, and we highly encourage you to come work with your horse during their stay. In fact, we offer lessons at no additional cost while your horse is in training to help you stay in the loop and build your own skills alongside theirs. That said, all visits must be scheduled in advance. LNH operates out of our private home facility, and unannounced drop-ins are not permitted. We appreciate your understanding and respect for our time and space.

Owner involvement during training is incredibly important to us—which is why all lessons are FREE while your horse is in training. Once your horse heads home, the support doesn’t stop there. You’re welcome to join us at a clinic, schedule private lessons, or continue your progress through the LNH “Unlock Your Horse’s Potential” Academy—a virtual program designed to support horse owners just like you with lesson plans, video feedback, and ongoing guidance. We’re here to help you and your horse succeed together—long after your time in training ends.

For general health care and emergencies, we rely on Sandhills Animal Health Center, located just 19 miles from our facility. We maintain a strong working relationship with their team and trust them to provide prompt, quality care when needed. For specialized care such as lameness evaluations or reproduction, we have previously worked with Dr. Brad Johnson of Norfolk Veterinary Clinic. However, with changes in availability and the closure of other local providers, we are currently in the process of establishing a new go-to veterinarian for advanced soundness needs.

Yes, absolutely. We welcome prospective clients—as well as anyone curious about our program—to visit the facility, meet the horses, and watch Lexy work. It’s a great way to get a feel for our approach before making a commitment. That said, visits must be scheduled in advance. While this is our place of business, it’s also our home, and we value our privacy. We do not accommodate unannounced drop-ins—mutual trust and respect are a non-negotiable part of any working relationship here.

Horses in our program are typically worked an average of 5 days per week, weather and event schedule permitting. We prioritize consistency while also giving each horse the rest and recovery time they need to retain and process their training. Quality work and long-term soundness always take precedence over checking boxes.

During your horse’s first few days—or even up to a couple of weeks—they may be kept in an individual pen to allow them to settle in and to monitor for any signs of illness. After that, they’re typically introduced to 1–4 carefully selected pen mates based on temperament and compatibility. Depending on the season and conditions, horses are either kept in spacious dry lots with 24/7 access to high-quality hay in HayChix nets or turned out on pasture. Our dry lots offer plenty of space for movement, play, rolling, and just being a horse—ensuring daily opportunities for both mental and physical freedom. I believe horses are healthiest with regular turnout and movement, and I don’t use stalls as a standard practice. That said, I do have outdoor, stall-like pens available if absolutely necessary.

Nope! We have all the tack and training equipment needed to work with your horse. That said, you’re welcome to send a fly mask, fly boots, or fly sheet during fly season, or a turnout blanket for the cooler months. We’ll make sure your horse stays comfortable in all conditions.

At Lexy Nuesch Horsemanship, training isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula—it’s a structured, intentional process rooted in strong fundamentals, thoughtful exposure, and a commitment to developing both the horse and the human behind them. Every horse comes with a different starting point, and we meet them there—keeping your long-term goals in mind as we help them develop confidence, relaxation, responsiveness, and mental and physical balance. Groundwork is a foundational part of that process. It’s not just something we do to check a box—it’s where softness, focus, trust, and communication begin. The groundwork we do is purposeful and layered into your horse’s daily education, preparing them mentally and physically for each new step under saddle. While arena work plays a key role in creating an emotionally and physically adaptable horse, training doesn’t end there. Real-world experiences like riding through the pasture, crossing creeks, pushing cattle, and navigating “scary” objects are equally important in building a well-rounded partner. Our horses aren’t just put through the motions—they’re developed with purpose. We don’t promise instant results, and we don’t treat this like a numbers game. What we do guarantee is honest communication, individualized care, and a program that’s designed to create lasting change—not just temporary progress. Whether you're sending a colt for a first start, a seasoned horse needing a restart, or a prospect bound for ranch work, trails, or performance competition, this program is built to support both horse and owner through every stage.

Transparency is key. While previous issues don’t automatically disqualify a horse from training, it’s important that I’m fully aware of any past concerns—no matter how resolved you believe they are. This helps me tailor their program appropriately and prevents setbacks. In some cases, I may require updated diagnostics or recommend delaying training until the horse is physically ready.

Yes. In the event of an emergency, we can haul your horse to Sandhills Animal Health Center, located just 19 miles from our facility. We have a strong working relationship with Dr. Stephens, and our trailer is always readily available to ensure your horse receives prompt medical attention.

Horses are designed to graze for up to 17 hours a day. While we offer maximum turnout whenever weather and conditions allow, our dry-lotted horses still need consistent forage access to mimic natural grazing patterns. We use Hay Chix hay nets in combination with Century Horse Feeders (safe for shod horses) to support steady hay consumption with minimal waste. From large round bale nets that extend access without limiting intake, to smaller nets for use when horses are tied, we ensure your horse has forage available as much as possible. Beyond reducing waste, hay nets are a cornerstone of our approach to gut health. Maintaining a consistent supply of hay helps reduce the risk of ulcers—especially in horses in active training.

On average, horses in our program receive a minimum of one hour of focused education each day. Some sessions may extend beyond two hours, while others might be closer to 45 minutes—it all depends on what your horse needs that day. Our goal isn’t to hit a stopwatch; it’s to make meaningful progress toward your horse’s development. That said, training at LNH goes far beyond what happens in the saddle or at the end of a lead rope. Grooming, baths, standing tied, farrier work, and how a horse is caught and led are all part of the experience. These seemingly small interactions are packed with opportunities to build positive habits, reinforce expectations, and shape a horse that’s confident, well-handled, and enjoyable to be around in any setting.

That depends. I’ve spent years helping horses with significant behavioral issues, and while I’m confident in my ability to do so, my focus has shifted. These days, I’m far more intentional about the horses I take on. I’m not looking to prove anything by getting on a horse that’s unsafe—I’ve done that work, and I know how quickly things can go wrong. There are plenty of good horses out there, and just as many trainers who enjoy taking on the rank ones. That’s no longer where my interest lies. If your horse has some holes or needs re-education due to gaps in prior training, that may still be a fit. But for severe behavioral issues like chronic bucking, bolting, rearing, or dangerous handling behaviors, I’m likely not the right program at this time.

Lexy has successfully worked with many horses, both on the ground and under saddle, that have struggled with spooking. In our experience, most of these cases stem from a lack of confidence—or, in some situations, an undiagnosed pain-related issue. Some horses are specifically reactive to things like tarps, flags, or bridges, while others are more generally cautious or reactive in unfamiliar situations. When appropriate, we collaborate with professionals like Jennifer Day Smith of Knotty Equine or Erin Bergold of X Factor Equine Performance to rule out pain or physical discomfort before proceeding with training. From there, we focus on building the horse’s understanding, confidence, and emotional resilience through intentional groundwork and exposure to a variety of environments and stimuli. While we can’t promise to eliminate spooking overnight, our goal is to equip your horse with the tools to think through pressure and unfamiliar situations, not just react to them.

Lexy personally trims all horses in training and maintains a regular 4–8 week trimming schedule, depending on each horse’s needs. When she’s not working horses on the weekends, Lexy often travels to Northeast Nebraska to trim for a long-standing base of 25+ clients. If you prefer to continue using your own farrier during training, that’s absolutely fine—as long as regular appointments can be arranged and maintained throughout your horse’s stay.

In most cases, no. While we understand that many feeds can support horses in training, we’ve found that using unfamiliar products limits our ability to make the precise adjustments needed based on how a horse is responding to work. For consistency, safety, and top-tier care, we feed what we know and trust. Your horse will receive: Grass hay grown right here on the ranch Dove Performance Nutrition’s AlfaLux alfalfa cubes Magnify, a high-fat, forage-based concentrate Oh-Mega-Goodness (OMG), a flaxseed-based supplement Redmond Salt, offered both free-choice and mixed into feed during warmer months Monthly Psyllium to support digestive health in our sandy soils We closely monitor every horse’s condition and are proactive in making changes when needed. Should your horse require additional support during training—for joints, gut health, or recovery—we have a curated selection of trusted products ready to go. Exceptions: We’re happy to feed veterinarian-prescribed supplements or clearly labeled, pre-measured packets of essential supplements if needed.

Yes! With advance notice, we’re happy to adjust our schedule so you can observe a training session during your visit. Watching your horse in action can be incredibly helpful in understanding their progress and giving you insight into how to support their continued development at home.

While sales and consignment are not a regular part of our program, we may be open to assisting with the sale of a horse in training on a case-by-case basis—especially when it’s the right fit and timing. If this is something you’re considering, please feel free to bring it up during our call.

Absolutely—and we highly encourage it! In fact, all lessons are FREE while your horse is in training. Owners who take advantage of these lessons tend to have the smoothest transitions when their horses go home. The more you’re involved now, the more confident and connected you’ll be later—and your horse will thank you for it.

Horses arriving in poor body condition (underweight, lacking muscle, poor coat quality, etc.) will not immediately enter full training. A tailored nutrition and rehab plan will be implemented, and training will begin once they’re physically and mentally prepared. In extreme cases, I may require the horse to return home and come back at a later date. My program is designed to set horses up for success, and that starts with their health.

Boarding after training is only available for short-term extensions if we’re coordinating pickup or continuing with lessons. I do not offer long-term boarding outside of the training program.

That’s one of the most common questions I get—and totally understandable! But here’s the thing: the real value of this program isn’t something you can measure in dollars alone. This isn’t just board and daily rides. It’s a full-immersion training experience designed to build a horse that’s educated, confident, and enjoyable to be around—while also keeping you, the owner, in the loop through lessons, updates, and education along the way. Because each horse and client relationship is different, I don’t list pricing or inclusions publicly. Instead, I walk you through exactly what’s included—and why it matters—on a one-on-one call after you’ve filled out a short application. That process doesn’t lock you into a spot. But it does show me you’re serious, not just kicking tires. If we’re a good fit, you’ll walk away from that call knowing exactly what to expect, how I can help your horse, and whether we’re the right match to move forward. And if we’re not? That’s okay too. Either way, we’ll have a good conversation—and you’ll get total clarity. Ready to get started? I can’t wait to learn more about you and your horse!

Lexy typically takes on no more than five client horses at a time. This allows her to give each horse the attention, consistency, and thoughtful progression they deserve. All care and training are handled by Lexy personally—there’s currently no hired help here—so your horse isn’t just another number in the program. That level of hands-on involvement is part of what makes the LNH experience unique. Because of this, spots are limited and often book out six months to a year (or more) in advance.

At Lexy Nuesch Horsemanship, our program is based on days of work—not calendar days. We require horses to receive a minimum of 90 days of training, which generally means a 120-day stay to account for necessary rest days, inclement weather, and scheduling around ranch, family, or event commitments. We believe horses shouldn’t be rushed through a box-checking process. Time off is part of training—allowing lessons to settle, bodies to recover, and minds to stay fresh. As a horse becomes more educated and mentally dialed in, we’re often able to move through concepts more quickly—but the early stages take the time they take. We’re not in a race. We’re building something solid that will last.

Yes. If your horse is ready and the event is a good fit, I’m happy to take them into the show pen for you. I regularly attend local and regional ranch versatility and cowhorse events, and showing can be a great way to add value to your horse’s education and résumé. Be sure to bring this up during your call if it interests you.

Yes. I’ve worked with several stallions over the years and am comfortable handling them in a training setting. As with any horse, I evaluate each individual based on their behavior, background, and goals. Stallions are welcome, provided they are a good fit for the program and facility.

No, we do not offer discounts for multiple horses. Each horse receives individualized care, attention, and a tailored program, regardless of how many are in our barn. The time, feed, handling, and training required doesn’t decrease just because they’re from the same owner.

In most cases, no—a minimum of 90 days is required to do meaningful work, especially for colt starts or horses needing ridden education. I’m not in the business of cranking out 30- or 60-day wonders. If you’re looking for quick, cheap, and questionable, there are plenty of places that will buck one out for $500. Just know: you get what you pay for. That said, there are some exceptions. If you’re a returning client, a current lesson student, or another professional needing specific help, I may be open to shorter stays, depending on the horse and the goals. Groundwork-only or short-term assessment stays are also occasionally accepted. If you’re unsure, just reach out. I’m happy to have a conversation and see if it makes sense.

Yes. All horses must receive a minimum of 90 days of training, which means we require a minimum 120-day stay to account for necessary rest days, inclement weather, and travel time. This extended timeframe is crucial—it allows us to build, reinforce, and solidify the right habits both mentally and physically. Good training isn’t about cramming as much as we can into a short window; it’s about giving your horse the time they need to truly understand, grow, and progress. Occasional exceptions may be made for returning clients, long-time students, or when collaborating with other professionals—but only when it’s in the best interest of the horse and aligns with our program values.

To ensure a smooth arrival and a safe environment for all horses, here are the steps we ask you to take: ✅ Required Documents: Negative Coggins (issued within the past 12 months) Current Vaccination Records (within 6 months) 14-Day Health Certificate (CVI) with your horse’s temperature noted We recommend scheduling a vet appointment well in advance to ensure you can get these taken care of. You can share this Health Requirements PDF directly with your veterinarian for reference. 📅 1 Month Before Arrival: Have your farrier trim your horse if possible Deworm with Ivermectin ahead of their stay Assess gut health, especially if your horse is underweight, prone to ulcers, or showing signs of stress or discomfort Dentals will be handled here, unless there’s an urgent concern your vet needs to address beforehand These steps help set your horse up for success from Day One and allow me to focus on what you’re sending them here for—quality training and lasting progress.

The retreat is designed for women who already have a solid start on their horse—whether that’s a trusty trail partner or a performance prospect. You don’t need to be competitive or advanced, but your horse should be rideable in new environments and safe in group settings.

If you don’t want to (or can’t) stay in your trailer at LNH, you’re welcome to make outside accommodations (not included in the retreat cost). Options include: • A nearby Airbnb cabin just 2.8 miles away (remodeled schoolhouse) • Hotels in Ainsworth (17 miles) or Valentine (39 miles) • RV hookups at the Brown County Fairgrounds in Johnstown (6.4 miles) Let me know if you want help coordinating something—I’m happy to pass along contact info.

If you’re a woman who wants to grow—in and out of the saddle—you’re in the right place. This retreat is ideal for intermediate riders and up, but you don’t need to be an expert or competitor. What matters most is that you’re open, willing, and ready to step into more.

If you cancel, I’ll refund your payments only if I’m able to fill your spot. If I can’t, you’re welcome to apply what you’ve paid toward another LNH event within one year. Please understand that last-minute cancellations are hard to fill and have a big impact on small group retreats like this.

You’ll need your horse’s regular gear, basic tack, and appropriate clothing for the weather. I’ll include a full packing list in the info packet sent out in August, but know that a willingness to learn, reflect, and lean in to the experience are just as important as what’s in your trailer.

All meals from Wednesday breakfast through Sunday dinner are included in your retreat package. (And just to be clear—supper is the evening meal around here, and dinner is the noon meal!) If you arrive on Tuesday evening, we’ll likely make a casual trip into the L Bow Room for supper. That meal is on your own. We’ll wrap up by mid to late afternoon on Sunday, and most gals hit the road before supper, so Sunday evening is not included.

Yes. This retreat is designed for you and your personal horse to grow together. If you’re unsure whether your horse is a good fit for this event, feel free to reach out.

You’ll receive a confirmation after reserving your spot, and I’ll follow up with more detailed info about what to pack, what to expect, and the final retreat schedule in early to mid-August. If you have questions before then, don’t hesitate to reach out.

To reserve your spot, a $500 deposit is required. I don’t currently offer formal payment plans, but if you need to split the remaining balance into two parts, just reach out. I’m happy to work with you to find a solution that feels fair and doable for both of us.

We roll with it! The retreat is designed with flexibility in mind, so we can pivot between arena work, trail rides, and indoor sessions as needed. While we can’t control the Nebraska weather, we can control how we show up. I recommend packing appropriate rain gear so you’re prepared for whatever the week brings. Rain or shine—the retreat goes on.

Absolutely—and you won’t be alone for long. Some of the strongest connections at past retreats have been between women who showed up not knowing a single person. You’ll be welcomed into a supportive, no-drama group of like-minded horsewomen.

20841 Cardinal Lane Council Bluffs, IA 51503 Contact: Brenda Sedlak • (402) 672-1451

Maintaining your regular riding routine leading up to the clinic is recommended. If your horse is accustomed to a consistent workout schedule, they'll be in good shape to participate. If you have any concerns, please reach out so we can provide personalized advice.

Yes, the clinic host will have a limited number of stalls & pens for horses and electrical hookups for trailers. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact our host, Brenda Sedlak, at (402) 672-1451 for more details and to secure your accommodations.

Yes, spectators are welcome to watch the clinic from designated viewing areas. Each participant may bring either their parents (if under 18) or one "coach" at no additional cost. For other guests, there is a spectator fee of $85 per day or $150 for both days. Spectators do not need to pre-register but can pay upon arrival.

The clinic is a two-day event, running from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Each day includes an hour lunch break & additional short breaks throughout the day. Expect to dedicate the first day to groundwork and the second day to riding exercises.

Our clinic welcomes riders and horses from a variety of skill levels; however, there are a few prerequisites to ensure the safety and progress of all participants. While we focus on foundational work beneficial to both novices and seasoned riders, it is essential that you and your horse have a basic level of experience. Your horse should be started under saddle and be reasonably comfortable and confident walking, trotting, and cantering in a group setting. Riders should have basic riding skills and be able to manage their horses at these gaits. Please note that this is not a colt-starting clinic, nor is it designed to teach complete beginners how to ride from scratch. The aim is to enhance and build upon the skills you and your horse already possess, to develop a deeper partnership and improve your performance in the saddle. Age Recommendation: We strongly recommend this clinic for participants aged 14 and up. The concepts discussed and the length of the clinic sessions require a significant attention span, which may be challenging for younger riders. If you're unsure whether this clinic is suitable for your current level or your child's level, please reach out to us with details and we can provide personalized advice.

Absolutely! Auditors are welcome at our clinic. If you're interested in learning without participating with a horse, auditing is a great option. The fee is $85 per day or $150 for both days, which grants you access to all sessions. This is an excellent opportunity to observe and absorb the techniques and strategies being taught.

The clinic will proceed rain or shine. The host facilities are equipped with an indoor arena, which will allow us to continue our sessions comfortably in poor weather conditions, ensuring that your learning experience remains uninterrupted.

For the maximum benefit of both you and your horse, we ask that you bring only one horse to this clinic. The curriculum is carefully designed to deepen your understanding of horsemanship concepts between you and your horse through consistent and focused practice. The foundational groundwork and riding exercises we will be covering are best "mastered" when you can dedicate your full attention to the nuances and progress of a single horse. Attempting to split your focus between multiple horses could dilute the quality of your experience and hinder your ability to fully absorb and apply the techniques taught. We want to ensure that you leave the clinic having made significant strides in your horsemanship and that your horse has had the opportunity to integrate the training effectively. Rest assured, the intensive nature of this clinic means that you will be engaged and active throughout, making the most of your time with us. Our goal is for you to walk away with a clear sense of understanding and tangible tools to take home & put into practice as you continue progressing on your horsemanship journey.

To ensure you have everything needed for a successful clinic experience, please bring the following: Your horse, of course! 😉 Tack: Saddle, bridle, and your usual riding equipment. Mandatory Gear: It is essential to bring specific items to maximize the effectiveness of the exercises at this clinic: Rope Halter: Stiff with 4 knots, no nylon or leather halters. Purchase here Lead Rope: 14-15 ft long, no 22 ft lunge lines. Purchase here Halter/Lead Combo: Purchase here Snaffle Bit: O or D-ring preferred. My preference can be purchased here Training Stick & String: No lunge whips. Purchase here Mecate Rein/Slobber Strap Setup (Optional, but preferred over barrel or roping-style reins) : Reins here (22 ft recommended for a standard size horse) and Slobber Straps here Personal Items: Weather-appropriate clothing, water, and snacks for your comfort. Special Offer: Use code "Lexy2019" at Ridge Creek Tack to receive a 10% discount on your order. Ensure you are prepared with these specific items in advance, as they are crucial for the clinic's activities. If you need to purchase any gear, please visit the links provided.

Yes, participants must register by September 15th to ensure a spot in the clinic.

Absolutely! We are committed to supporting your continued horsemanship journey beyond the clinic. We offer both in-person and virtual lessons tailored to your needs. Additionally, you can explore deeper learning opportunities through the LNH "Unlock Your Horse's Potential" Academy, which includes customized lesson plans and more. For an immersive experience, consider joining us for one of our Horsemanship Ranch Retreats at Lexy's ranch. Each option is designed to extend and enhance your skills and relationship with your horse.

There will be a Snack Shack on-site for concessions (recommended). There are also several local dining options a short drive into Council Bluffs.

To ensure each participant receives quality instruction and personalized attention, we limit the clinic to just 5 participants. This small group size allows for an intimate setting where each rider and horse can receive the focused guidance and support they need to excel without being crowded. NOTE: We will keep a waitlist & if the weather looks like it will allow us to be in the larger outdoor arena as the clinic dates get closer, we will open registration to allow 7-8 participants.

Desensitization to Lead Rope, Stick & String, Plastic Bags, etc. Yielding the Hindquarters Yielding the Forequarters Backing Flexing the Head & Neck Lunging Stage 1 & 2 Sending Circle Driving Leading Beside

Stands to be Saddled Willingly Accepts the Bridle Stands to be Mounted Lateral Flexion One Rein Stops Cruise Control Yielding the Hindquarters Bend at a Walk Bending Transitions Backing Be Willfully Guided at Walk/Trot/Lope Vertical Flexion at a Standstill, Backing, Stop, & Start at the Walk/Trot Stop Off of Two Reins from Walk/Trot/Lope Sidepass Shoulder In/Out Start of a Turnaround

Direction Control Speed Control Hooking On/Drawing Turns to the Inside

Good to Catch Leads willingly & with awareness Picks up all 4 feet Loads into trailer Stands quietly when tied