About Your Event Hosts

Calling the Idaho Falls area home for the past 10 years, Katie Barnes is a passionate horsewoman with a deep love for the rugged landscapes and boundless opportunities for equestrian pursuits that the region offers.

Alongside her husband and children, Katie is the proud owner of B Diamond Ranch, a small yet thriving operation nestled in Idaho Falls. Together, they dedicate themselves to raising and training horses, creating a haven for equine enthusiasts and fostering a family-oriented approach to horsemanship.

Hailing from Minnesota, Katie's equestrian journey began at a young age. She immersed herself in various disciplines, including 4-H, FFA, High School Rodeo, and College Rodeo. Katie's skills were further honed through the UWRF colt training program, where she had the privilege of meeting the legendary Jack Brainard and starting one of his impressive fillies. The program also introduced her to Ray Hunt training techniques, laying the foundation for her diverse expertise.

Katie's heart finds solace in the mountains, where she enjoys the thrill of trail riding. Additionally, she has a penchant for the exciting sport of team sorting, showcasing her versatility in the equestrian world.

Katie's journey led her through the intricate worlds of Reining, Reined Cowhorse, and eventually Cutting. Her experiences in South Dakota and Montana exposed her to ranch horses and ranch horse shows, broadening her horizons in the equestrian arena.

Beyond her life with horses, Katie is a dedicated therapist in her day job. With a passion for equine therapy, she plans to weave her therapeutic skills with her love for horses, creating a unique and impactful approach to helping others connect with these magnificent animals.

Always on a quest for personal growth, Katie's goal is to deepen the connection with her horses and extend that profound connection to others through equine therapy. Katie thrives on collaboration, regularly engaging with fellow riders and trainers to expand her knowledge. Her commitment to continuous learning reflects her dedication to providing the best care for her horses and enriching the lives of those around her.

In summary, Katie Barnes is more than an equestrian; she is a dedicated horsewoman, therapist, and lifelong learner. With B Diamond Ranch as her canvas, she paints a picture of harmony between family, horsemanship, and the therapeutic power of horses, creating a legacy of passion and connection in the heart of Idaho Falls.

Meet James, a loving dad, devoted husband, and true outdoorsman with a passion for making a positive impact on people's lives. Growing up he shared his time between Firth, ID and the forests of WA state. He has fond memories of spending his summers at his grandpa's ranch, fostering a deep connection with the land, a love for horses, and a genuine appreciation for the great outdoors. He now lives on a small ranch in Idaho Falls with his wife and children.

James is most at home surrounded by nature. Whether it's hiking through the rugged wilderness, camping under the stars, or simply enjoying the tranquility of a quiet forest, he finds solace and inspiration in the beauty of the natural world. When James isn't working with horses or counseling, you'll likely find him immersed in his other great passions – hunting and fishing. He cherishes the thrill of the hunt and the patience required for a successful day by the water. These experiences not only provide him with a sense of adventure but also serve as a reminder of the importance of patience, strategy, and respect for the environment.

Beyond his expertise in horse training, James is a compassionate drug and alcohol counselor. Having witnessed the challenges many individuals face in their journey to recovery, he has dedicated himself to supporting others in overcoming addiction. His empathetic approach and genuine commitment to helping people reclaim their lives make him a beacon of hope for those seeking a path to recovery.

🌟 Mustang Recovery Challenge: Driven by a desire to merge his passion for horses, the outdoors, and commitment to recovery, James has pioneered the Mustang Recovery Challenge. This innovative program combines horse training techniques with therapeutic approaches, creating a unique and empowering experience for individuals on the path to recovery. Through the Mustang Recovery Challenge, James aims to instill confidence, trust, and resilience in participants as they navigate their journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Known for his altruistic spirit, James finds joy in helping others. Whether it's guiding someone through the intricacies of horse training or providing support in their recovery journey, he is always ready to lend a helping hand. His commitment to lifelong learning is evident in his pursuit of knowledge to enhance both his horsemanship and counseling skills.

In summary, James is a multifaceted individual driven by a profound sense of purpose, deeply connected to the outdoors, and committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those he encounters. Through his dedication, he continues to be a beacon of inspiration in both the equestrian, outdoor, and recovery communities.

  James a multifaceted individual driven by a profound sense of purpose. His life's work revolves around building connections, fostering recovery, and creating positive change in the lives of those he encounters. Through his dedication, James continues to be a beacon of inspiration in both the equestrian and recovery communities.