ABOUT US

“These are the moments that stick with you, not because you read another chart, not because you got a stamp on a certificate, but because, through having an experience, actively participating and finally succeeding (even if you failed 100 times first…) you were fully embodied in the moment.” Amanda Kumiko Kent

A Japanese word, ikigai is described as having a sense of purpose in life, the feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment that follows when people pursue their passions.

I believe that lessons truly learned come from hard work and hands-on experience; and result in accuracy, precision and mastery.

My personal mission is to help others expand awareness and wake up intuition - you can’t do one without the other - and they are the tools that bring peace of mind, release anxiety, allow joy, and let us zero in on the next step in our journeys - or at least be ready when it shows up for us.

My story really began when my first horse, that was all mine, showed up at my house when I was 8. My first fight with him was probably the next day! And my greatest lessons in the power of bad communication began.

Needless to say, my mastery of learning through ‘trial and error’ began with a lot of errors. And then more errors. And one day, after crying so hard there were brown tear streaks down my dust covered face from being “bucked off” once again (probably really just falling off) of ol’ Sam, I climbed back in the saddle and learned to be a leader.

I could have read a dozen books on confidence by the time I figured it out but I would never have learned to possess that way of being, to be able to embody something another living creature could trust for direction and for safety, if I hadn’t experienced it.

READ MY STORY

There are lots of definitions of being a cowgirl, and after a lifetime on a horse I feel I can call myself one.

What do I like? I love Elvis and horses, rugby (don’t ask me the rules though), music (old country and rock, and classical) plus reading and writing and speaking. I love telling a good story and surprising an audience.

I also love helping a team accomplish a goal - a company or a group of teenagers, and that moment when someone realizes they can do something they thought was so out of character.

It is my intuition that has led me to my success and adventures.

My favorite quote from an unknown source is “Opportunity is like the last hair on a bald man’s head - you’ve got to grab it before it’s gone forever!”

And my favorite personal saying is, “You can’t Google experience.”

There is an opportunity in front of you – I hope you’ll take it and join me in an **experience.

Amanda

PROGRAM'S PAGE

MY TEAM

Paul and Joanne Kent

Owners of the Kent Ranch outside of Pocatello, Idaho, Paul and Joanne have years of experience in hosting programs and events, and teaching others.

Paul’s legacy includes growing up an Idaho farmer and cowboy, as well as owner and gunsmith at Kent’s Gunworks. He also traveled internationally as a transformer repairman. He manages the property and entertains around the campfire as our own personal singing cowboy.

Joanne taught the 3rd grade at Chubbuck Elementary for 40 years. Her legacy of influence includes generations of families whose parents were in her homeroom as well as their children. She even had students who went on to become teachers that came back to observe and even student teach in her beloved classroom. She continues to serve now as a substitute teacher, when she isn’t too busy with The Golden Panthers - retired teachers group, or any of her many hobbies.

The Paul and Joanne work with joy to provide a beautiful venue for off-site workshops, day programs, youth gatherings, weddings, and other events. Did I also mention they have impressive children?

Tess the Mess and Betsy Ross Kent

Tess and Betsy are the official greeters at the Kent Ranch and leadership experience off-site events held by Amanda.

THE HERD

Horses have an exceptional ability to teach us the power of clear communication, herd or group negotiation and trust and how to be present for ourselves and those we are leading.

“They don’t care what you did yesterday, or what you’re doing tomorrow. All they care about is who you are, right here, right now.” -Amanda Kumiko Kent

KENT RANCH

Kent Ranch is located north of Pocatello, Idaho. It is home to the family, dogs, barn cats, horses and whoever shows up. It is also home to numerous beehives that keep the garden and local orchards and alfalfa fields happy.

The Kent Ranch provides a nourishing, country-style destination for off-site workshops, day programs, fireside meetings, youth gatherings, weddings and other events.

Come join us for an afternoon visit.

REQUEST A SITE VISIT