From Questions to Connection

Hi, I’m Laura! Trainer, equestrian coach, and founder of The Fortae Project.

I work with equestrians from all walks of life who want to better understand their horses and bring more ease and enjoyment into their work together.

My approach combines behavior-based training and biomechanics to help riders meet their horses where they are, without losing sight of where they want to go. Every horse is an individual, and I believe training should reflect that. When we build from understanding instead of assumptions, the results speak for themselves.

Over the years, I’ve worked with a wide range of horses and riders, helping them find more clarity, connection, and success in their work together. That experience continues to shape the way I teach, and I’m always learning, growing, and expanding what I’m able to offer.

Theo - my longtime partner and most influential teacher, was the first horse who truly challenged me to find a different way forward. I had already been riding and training for years, but as Theo and I moved through our journey, there was a clear disconnect that traditional methods couldn’t resolve. He pushed me to question what I knew, to get curious, and to start searching for approaches that supported both physical soundness and emotional well-being.

That shift led me to explore new disciplines, research-driven methods, and deeper ways of engaging with horses. What I found was simple: horses thrive when they feel safe, supported, and seen, and so do riders.

The Fortae Project, named in honor of Theo, grew from that realization. What began with one horse and one big question has evolved over the last seventeen years into a growing body of work centered on helping horses and the people who care for them. Through education, coaching, and training, I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned and helping horse-and-human teams develop deeper understanding, confidence, and partnership.