COVID-19 continues to take its toll, even affecting show horse blog journalism, forcing it to continuously adapt. We are constantly adapting, and will continue to persevere. In our first edition of Young Professional Spotlights, we have chosen Hanna Johnson age 27, she is new to our chapter, so we wanted to get to know her a little better, as a sort of “Welcome to Chapter 14!”
I wish I was able to say that I tracked Hanna down at a horse show between sessions. We had a chat ranging from her start in the industry, her inspirations, to how she takes her coffee. Two creams, but she prefers a good latte, suitors take note. Any interview conducted by a Sebring will at some point come to the topic of music, Hanna enjoys German singer songwriter and fast rising pop sensation Kim Petras, as well as Dua Lipa, who currently is
the most streamed album by a female artist in Spotify history. Lana Del Ray and her pop-noir sound, rounds out the list of musical artists on Hanna’s playlist. When Hanna has time to unwind she lists three things: couch, Law and Order, and some pasta; then she mentions drinks with friends. Knowing full well how difficult it can be to maintain a hobby and take care of horses, I still asked if Hanna had any hobbies, she does! When she can she enjoys snowboarding. Then, we got into some more serious questions...
YP: What draws you to the horse industry?
HJ: Ya know, ironically enough, the horses! The partnership and connection you build with them during your time working with them is priceless. Then a very close second would be the people and the friendships I’ve made. They really are my second family
YP: How did your career begin?
HJ: I've been riding and competing ever since I was very young but right before I headed off to college, my parents had started a private farm and hired a top horseman (Tom Bombolis) who, after hearing of my desire to pursue this professionally, convinced to stay and work on my family’s farm to start my career out. Learning from Tom from the beginning of my career really set a solid foundation for the horsewoman I am today.
YP: What challenges did you face starting your career?
HJ: You have to make a lot of mistakes. With horses and with the business side of things. The only way you get good is by making a mistake and saying “ok so that’s what happens when you do THAT” and just getting better from there. You have to have the mental capacity to not let every little thing eat you up inside and let yourself naturally progress.
YP: What lessons have you learned in your career and what advice would you give other young professionals?
HJ: Nobody really prepared me for how mentally strong you have to be to do this. You have to be able to have a bad ride, clear your mind for the next ride and not get stuck on every detail. I wish someone had told me that early on. I feel like training horses can give you such a high, but also such a low, and can really make you feel defeated. I think it’s important to note that with training horses you will never know everything. Another bit of advice is always find people and horsemen that you respect and look up to and ask for advice. They are almost always willing to share their knowledge.
YP: Do you have a personal motto or code you live by?
HJ: Never make the same mistake twice and always end working a horse on a good note.
YP: What goals do you have for this year? What goals do you have for the next five years?
HJ: My goal this year is just to be on top of my game at Rand and enjoy the amazing opportunity to work with David and his unbelievable crew. In the next five years I’d love to own my own farm and start my own business.
YP: At your new farm and business, what color would your drapes be?
HJ: Green and grey.
YP: What other horsemen inspire you? What non horsemen inspire you?
HJ: I’ve always looked up to Jim and Jenny Taylor, Melissa Moore, Todd Miles and obviously.. Judy Whitney. As far as non horsemen, my great grandmother and the way she lived her life has always been my inspiration.
YP: What is a favorite memory from the show ring?
HJ: The OKC victory passes I took on my family’s homebred horses were always special to me.
YP: Who is a favorite horse from your past?
HJ: The first Morgan my mother ever bought was named “Sequence” and even though he never set his head and was constantly on some sort of diet, I adored him. Taught me countless lessons.
YP: Who is a favorite horse currently?
HJ: Whatever horse is giving me the hardest time
Mentally strong. Enjoys coffee. Up for a challenge. These are all qualities that embody the Chapter 14 spirit, in our humble opinions, and we think Hanna is going to fit in just fine. Welcome, Hanna!
Interview Conducted by: Jim Sebring
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