About Monique Potts
A Lifelong Connection with Horses - Monique Potts has been immersed in the world of horses for as long as she can remember. Raised on a small acreage in Erie, Colorado, Monique grew up watching her mother, JanieJill Tointon, breed, train, and sell horses while also offering riding lessons. From an early age, Monique learned the value of patience, trust, and clear communication with horses—lessons that continue to guide her training philosophy today.
“
I am always willing to keep learning,” Monique says. “Working with horses means recognizing that there is always something new to discover.”
This mindset of lifelong learning has become a core part of who Monique is as both a trainer and a horsewoman.
A Foundation Built on Real Experience
Monique considers herself incredibly fortunate to have grown up in an environment where hands-on experience was abundant. From foaling out mares to handling stallions and working with groups of horses, she was exposed to real-life situations that most horse people rarely encounter.
“We had 10–20 foals a year, along with stallions, mares, and herd groups. I didn’t realize at the time how rare that experience was,” she reflects.
That upbringing gave her the ability not just to start horses—but to truly understand how to read them, solve problems, and handle difficult situations. These skills are the foundation of her approach today.
Stepping Away—and Coming Back Stronger
In her early 20s, Monique briefly stepped away from the horse world, realizing that horses were something she had grown up with—but not something she had truly chosen for herself. During that time away, she explored other paths and gained a deeper understanding of who she was and what she valued.
Eventually, her passion for horses resurfaced—stronger and more purposeful than ever. She returned with a renewed sense of commitment, realizing that the knowledge and experience she had gained could be used to help both horses and people.
Learning from the Best
Monique has spent years learning from some of the top horsemen and trainers in the world. As a regular attendee of Buck Brannaman’s clinics, she soaked up every opportunity to refine her skills.
“Buck is an incredible horseman,” Monique says. “If I could ever become a fraction of the horsewoman he is, I would consider that a huge success.”
Her horsemanship is also shaped by exposure to a wide range of disciplines, including reining, cow horse, and dressage. She continues to take lessons regularly and believes that great trainers never stop being students. That open-mindedness and hunger for growth are what set Monique apart.
From Kids’ Lessons to Competitive Goals
Earlier in her career, Monique ran a successful kids' riding program, teaching beginners the fundamentals of horsemanship. Although she eventually transitioned away from working primarily with children, she credits that experience with shaping her ability to communicate clearly and teach with patience.
Since 2003, Monique has taught both kids and adults, helping riders of all ages build confidence and connection with their horses. Her teaching is grounded in the same values that shaped her childhood: respect, understanding, and thoughtful progression.
Competitive Success & New Aspirations
Monique is equally passionate about competing and continuing her personal horsemanship journey. In dressage, she earned both her USDF Bronze and Silver Medals with her horse Niguel, forming a true partnership built on trust and communication.
Her latest competitive goal lies in the cow horse world, where she is now working with a new prospect named Ballerina. Monique is excited to explore this challenging and rewarding discipline with the same commitment she brings to everything she does.
Monique’s Mission
With a deep love for horses, a lifetime of experience, and an unwavering commitment to learning, Monique Potts is here to help riders and horses build real, lasting connections. Whether you're starting a young colt, working through behavioral challenges, or pursuing high-level performance goals, Monique’s approach is grounded, honest, and always in service of what's best for the horse.
“Horses have taught me some of life’s most valuable lessons,” she says. “It’s an honor to pass those lessons on to others.”
A Lifelong Connection with Horses - Monique Potts has been immersed in the world of horses for as long as she can remember. Raised on a small acreage in Erie, Colorado, Monique grew up watching her mother, JanieJill Tointon, breed, train, and sell horses while also offering riding lessons. From an early age, Monique learned the value of patience, trust, and clear communication with horses—lessons that continue to guide her training philosophy today.
“
I am always willing to keep learning,” Monique says. “Working with horses means recognizing that there is always something new to discover.”
This mindset of lifelong learning has become a core part of who Monique is as both a trainer and a horsewoman.
A Foundation Built on Real Experience
Monique considers herself incredibly fortunate to have grown up in an environment where hands-on experience was abundant. From foaling out mares to handling stallions and working with groups of horses, she was exposed to real-life situations that most horse people rarely encounter.
“We had 10–20 foals a year, along with stallions, mares, and herd groups. I didn’t realize at the time how rare that experience was,” she reflects.
That upbringing gave her the ability not just to start horses—but to truly understand how to read them, solve problems, and handle difficult situations. These skills are the foundation of her approach today.
Stepping Away—and Coming Back Stronger
In her early 20s, Monique briefly stepped away from the horse world, realizing that horses were something she had grown up with—but not something she had truly chosen for herself. During that time away, she explored other paths and gained a deeper understanding of who she was and what she valued.
Eventually, her passion for horses resurfaced—stronger and more purposeful than ever. She returned with a renewed sense of commitment, realizing that the knowledge and experience she had gained could be used to help both horses and people.
Learning from the Best
Monique has spent years learning from some of the top horsemen and trainers in the world. As a regular attendee of Buck Brannaman’s clinics, she soaked up every opportunity to refine her skills.
“Buck is an incredible horseman,” Monique says. “If I could ever become a fraction of the horsewoman he is, I would consider that a huge success.”
Her horsemanship is also shaped by exposure to a wide range of disciplines, including reining, cow horse, and dressage. She continues to take lessons regularly and believes that great trainers never stop being students. That open-mindedness and hunger for growth are what set Monique apart.
From Kids’ Lessons to Competitive Goals
Earlier in her career, Monique ran a successful kids' riding program, teaching beginners the fundamentals of horsemanship. Although she eventually transitioned away from working primarily with children, she credits that experience with shaping her ability to communicate clearly and teach with patience.
Since 2003, Monique has taught both kids and adults, helping riders of all ages build confidence and connection with their horses. Her teaching is grounded in the same values that shaped her childhood: respect, understanding, and thoughtful progression.
Competitive Success & New Aspirations
Monique is equally passionate about competing and continuing her personal horsemanship journey. In dressage, she earned both her USDF Bronze and Silver Medals with her horse Niguel, forming a true partnership built on trust and communication.
Her latest competitive goal lies in the cow horse world, where she is now working with a new prospect named Ballerina. Monique is excited to explore this challenging and rewarding discipline with the same commitment she brings to everything she does.
Monique’s Mission
With a deep love for horses, a lifetime of experience, and an unwavering commitment to learning, Monique Potts is here to help riders and horses build real, lasting connections. Whether you're starting a young colt, working through behavioral challenges, or pursuing high-level performance goals, Monique’s approach is grounded, honest, and always in service of what's best for the horse.
“Horses have taught me some of life’s most valuable lessons,” she says. “It’s an honor to pass those lessons on to others.”
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