Before I dive in, if you enjoy this kind of podcast, head over to RebelliousWellnessOver50.com for 2 years worth of goodness. I rebranded but didn't change my rebellious intention to help us all live fully so we can age better.

In this episode of Rebellious Wellness Lifestyle, host Greg speaks with Shannon Jamail, owner of a retreat center in Austin, Texas, that offers unique transformative experiences with the help of her four-legged assistants—horses.

Episode Highlights:

• Shannon's background includes corporate sales and mental health therapy before transitioning to hosting retreats
• Her retreat center in Austin features seven horses (plus one mini) that free-range on 46 acres
• Shannon's signature retreat "Wine and Unwind" offers women a chance to disconnect from daily stressors in an elevated camp-like experience
• She also teaches entrepreneurs how to successfully launch and run their own retreats

The Healing Power of Horses

Shannon discovered the transformative power of horses after bringing them to the ranch for her family. This led to incorporating them into her retreat offerings:

"When you have a 1200 pound partner, you are so tuned in to what is happening and what you are feeling, because what you're feeling, your partner's feeling... You experience this peace that just cannot be described. It's just really, truly magical."

Guests can interact with horses at different comfort levels—from casual interactions as they roam freely to trail rides, equine yoga sessions, and deeper equine coaching experiences.

Keys to Successful Retreats

For entrepreneurs interested in hosting retreats, Shannon shares essential advice:

• Be prepared to dedicate time and resources—retreats aren't a "set it and forget it" business

Get specific about your target audience: "If you're marketing to everyone, you're marketing to no one"

• Create a clear "retreat promise" that addresses specific pain points and delivers solutions
• Do market research and attend other retreats before hosting your own
• Develop a comprehensive budget that includes your desired profit margin
• Have proper legal documentation (waivers) in place before collecting any money

Shannon emphasizes that virtually any passion or expertise can become the foundation for a successful retreat—from crocheting to plant medicine to art workshops.

Final Advice

For potential retreat-goers who might be nervous about attending, Shannon encourages an open mind and heart:

"Please come with an open heart and be open-minded and know, at least at my retreats, I know for sure, but most people who are in this space—all we wanna do is love on you and give you a place to just let it all out."

For entrepreneurs considering hosting retreats, she acknowledges the risks but emphasizes the rewards are worth it—creating deep connections and lifelong customers through these transformative experiences.

To learn more, visit mindbodycomplete.com for retreat information or theretreatleaderplaybook.com for resources on hosting your own retreats.