About Brie

FROM PATH TO GROW

The story behind GROW Horsemanship begins with PATH Equestrian, founded in 2017 while I was attending the University of Guelph. PATH was created from a desire to find a training philosophy that aligned with my ethics. Early in my journey, I was told I wasn’t “tough enough” to succeed in the equine industry, yet the idea of using excessive force never felt right. That tension and disconnection from the horse people around me led to me studying equine behaviour, learning theory, ethology and welfare, areas that soon began to reshape how I understood horses and horsemanship.

Over time, PATH became more than a training business; it became a space for rethinking tradition and putting compassion and evidence at the core of everything I did. But, as my understanding deepened and I continued to learn, I realized that growth itself was the constant theme. 

That evolution inspired GROW: Guided by Research, Observation and Welfare. 

Research keeps this work grounded in evidence and curiosity. It challenges assumptions, questions traditions, and ensures that the choices I make are informed by science. But, research is never static; it’s always changing, evolving and updating as new studies deepen our understanding. Staying open to that growth means continuing to learn, adapt and find how we support both horses and humans.

Observation means slowing down to truly see the horse infront of us. It’s about combining data with intuition, blending what we know with what we feel and notice. Observation bridges science and empathy, allowing us to respond to each horse as an individual rather than a formula. 

Welfare is the guiding principle and the heart of it all. It reminds us that training is only ethical when a horse’s physical, emotional, and social needs are fully met. Every decision, from management to handling to all interactions, is filtered through that lens, ensuring that the horse’s well-being always comes first. 

Together, these 3 pillars respresent how my vision has grown, not just training differently but thinking differently, to create a framework for growth for horses, humans, and the connection between them. 

Qualification and Awards:

My promise is to continue to learn, improve and use science-based methods to work with horses. My goal is to keep adding to my experience and education list below.

Accolades

• ENDOSED TRAINER at The World Bitless Association
• Equine Training Professional at The Pet Professional Guild
• Studying Member at the IAABC
• 2021 Winner of “Best Equestrian / Riding Lesson” within the Waterloo Region

“Continuing Education” 2023 and 2024

• T-Touch Clinic with Linda Tellington-Jones
• R+ Clinic with Adele Shaw, CHBC
• PB Paddock Paradise Livery Track System Clinic
• Positive Horse Virtual Show – March (3rd place winner)
• Positive Horse Virtual Show – June

Publications

Mad Barn – Article

8 Common Stereotypic Behaviours in Horses and What They Mean 

Equine stereotypic behaviours are repetitive behaviours involving a constant sequence of movements that have no obvious or apparent function. 

Podcast – The Willing Equine

Ep 48 // LIMA For Humans and Supporting Change: Part Two

Discussion on “pure” positive reinforcement, LIMA (and the humane hierarchy) for human learners, damage control vs structured training, setting you and your horse up for success, transitioning from traditional training to positive reinforcement, and so much more!

Happy Trackin’ Magazine – Issue 8 – Article
From First Glance to Friendship

In this article, Brie Simpson shares a calm, evidence-based approach to herd introductions that prioritizes safety, observation and welfare over speed. Through gradual, structured steps, she shows how thoughtful introductions build trust, prevent conflict, and protect the stability of the entire herd.