Equine Inspired Soul w/ Tanya

Episode Title: Healing with Horses – Tanya Dingmann’s Journey with Equine Inspired Soul

Hosted by: Michelle Marotzke, Kandiyohi County Economic Development & Elevate CBA

Guest: Tanya Dingman, Founder of Equine Inspired Soul, Elevate Graduate (Fall 2023)

Introduction:
In this episode of the Elevate Community Business Academy podcast, host Michelle Marotzke talks with Tanya Dingmann, founder of Equine Inspired Soul and a Fall 2023 graduate of the Elevate program. Tanya shares how her lifelong connection with horses turned into a powerful business that helps people find healing, mindfulness, and empowerment through equine-assisted empowerment and healing.

Key Discussion Points:

🔹 How It All Began:

Tanya’s love for horses began at age four, rooted in her mother’s passion and a barn full of memories.

After receiving her first horse in 2007, Tanya experienced how horses helped her through difficult times.

🔹 The Power of Equine:

Equine Inspired Soul is based in Belgrade, MN, where Tanya and her family care for a herd of therapeutic horses on their 45-acre ranch.

Horses help clients develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and mindfulness by teaching them how to respond instead of react.

Tanya discusses the science behind equine healing and how horses naturally balance energy, reduce stress, and offer unconditional presence.

🔹 Involving the Whole Family:

Tanya’s husband and kids play an active role in supporting the business and caring for the animals.

Entrepreneurship has become a family lifestyle centered on purpose and passion.

🔹 Launching a Dream:

Tanya transitioned from a different career to pursue equine healing full time.

She shares the emotional and logistical challenges of starting a purpose-driven business.

🔹 How Elevate Helped:

The Elevate CBA program gave Tanya the foundational tools, mentorship, and resources to develop her business.

She continues to benefit from Elevate’s ongoing support, including networking, professional development, and technical assistance.

Tanya credits the program with giving her the confidence and connections to pursue her dream.

🔹 Looking Ahead:

Tanya is expanding Equine Inspired Soul with youth camps, women's programming, and community partnerships.

She emphasizes the importance of valuing her time and services while also creating opportunities for accessibility and scholarships through a nonprofit partner.

Her word for 2025: Thrive.

Where to Find Equine Inspired Soul:
📍 Location: Belgrade, MN
🌐 Website: EquineInspiredSoul.com
📱 Social Media: Facebook & Instagram @EquineInspiredSoul

Closing Thoughts:
Tanya’s story is a powerful reminder that healing often begins with connection—to animals, to ourselves, and to community. Her journey from a horse-loving child to a business-owning healer shows what happens when passion meets purpose.

🎧 Listen now to hear how horses are transforming lives in rural Minnesota.

Elevate Program: To learn more about or participate in the Elevate Program please head to elevatesba.com!

SWIF: To learn more about or support the Southwest Initiative Foundation please head to https://swifoundation.org!