We had the good fortune of connecting with Hadassah Warren and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hadassah, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
“If your heart is not in it, your downfall is already at your door”

I think this phrase stretches vastly beyond the world of sports or business. In the challenging world of equine show preparation and management, one fundamental truth stands out: if you are not wholeheartedly invested in this endeavor, your downfall is already waiting at your door. As an equine professional, the passion for horses and equine sports is not just nice to have; it’s an absolute must if you are going to succeed. Without an unwavering commitment, genuine care, and a deep-seated love for these majestic animals and the equestrian world, your journey is destined to be a losing battle. Your heart must beat in rhythm with the hoofbeats, for it is this devotion that will fuel your persistence and ultimately define your success in this demanding and rewarding journey!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The arena of equestrian sports is often viewed as exclusive, and rightly so. Nothing about this profession is easy! However, some of my proudest moments have come from breaking through many of these barriers by gaining a college education that then in turn gave me the knowledge and experiences needed to work under Olympic medalists and World Champion professionals. These high-level exposures not only refined my skills but, also provided insights into the highest echelons of equestrian competition. I believe one of the most prevalent and detrimental misconceptions in the equestrian community today is the ideology that horses are more important than people. I challenge this ideology because, without people, there would be no equine industry! In recent months, I have had the opportunity to help a few individuals who have sustained equine-related trauma. These traumas have ranged anywhere from freak accidents that forced the choice to save themselves or another person, to unacceptable treatment by previous trainers and instructors. While I am in no way a mental health professional, it has been so healing and inspiring to help reinstill the value of a person in an area where they had lost their sense of worth, as I have gone through my own share of equine-related trauma. I am very much so looking forward to furthering good mental health practices in a profession that is so deficient in this area!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When envisioning an unforgettable week for my best friend visiting the area, I’d craft a diverse itinerary that encapsulates the cultural richness and vibrant experiences Fort Worth and its surroundings have to offer! Our journey would kick off with a deep dive into the heart of Texas culture at the Fort Worth Stockyards. The rustic charm and lively atmosphere would set the tone for an authentic Texan experience. Following this, we’d embark on an art-filled adventure, exploring the masterpieces at both the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. The juxtaposition of classical and contemporary art would provide a captivating visual journey.
For a chill afternoon, we’d head to Ampersand Coffee Shop & bar, a local gem that combines craft coffee with a vibrant nightlife ambiance. After fueling up, our next stops would be Doc’s Records & Vintage and Honeysuckle Rose Vintage for a dose of nostalgia and unique finds, immersing ourselves in the world of vintage shopping.
A night out wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the lively energy of Billy Bob’s Honky Tonk, a quintessential Texan honky-tonk offering live music and country dancing. To further enhance our musical journey, we’d connect with the local music scene, attending performances by talented Dallas or Fort Worth artists and building memories with the vibrant sounds of the region.
Venturing beyond Fort Worth, our exploration would take us to Denton, where the eclectic Thrift Giant awaits with an array of unique treasures. The day would culminate with a flavorful dinner at Thai Square Restaurant, a Denton establishment known for its delicious Thai cuisine, adding a taste of international flavor to our adventure.
Our final day would most likely be dedicated to the culinary delights of Dallas. We’d embark on a coffee shop and restaurant-hopping tour, savoring the diverse culinary offerings the city has to offer. From trendy cafes to hidden gems in various neighborhoods, we’d immerse ourselves in the diversity that makes Dallas a food lover’s paradise!
I am sure there are so many things I am forgetting to put on this list, the DFW area has so much to offer anyone who visits!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
By far one of the most influential people in my success has been my college professor Becky Terrell. As I reflect on the past and the incredible journey I embarked on under Becky’s guidance, I am filled with gratitude for the profound impact Professor Terrell had on my life. I want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for all that Becky taught me and for her extraordinary generosity in allowing me to enroll in the North Central Texas College Equine Science Program at the young age of 15. Allowing me to enroll in the equine program at such a young age was a decision that I believe changed the course of my life. Becky’s willingness to take that chance on me and provide me with such a unique opportunity was nothing short of life-changing. It enabled me to pursue my passion and develop such refinement in my skills and knowledge at a time when the doors of the collegiate and professional worlds were not even a thought in the minds of others my age. As I reflect on the journey I’ve taken in the equine world and the dreams I pursued, I continue to cherish the foundational knowledge and priceless experiences I gained under Becky’s guidance. Her contributions to my education have been truly remarkable, and there are few people whom I have learned as much about the equine world as I did from her!

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Image Credits
Maddie Cross, Tyler Cleveland, Out Fox You Farm, Haddie Bennetsen

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