Testimonials

There are not many courses / workshops out there that make you really think, but this workshop achieved this, but at the same time, it was a very enjoyable experience.

L.C., Town of Rocky Mountain House, AB

“Some books are a ‘must read’, some films are a ‘must see’ but your Equine-Assisted Learning is a ‘must do’ for teams who are serious about improving their practical communication and problem solving skills. Thank you. You provided an experience I will never forget and practical, insightful lessons I will always use.”

Arlene Krivoshein, BA, LLB
Certified Mediator and Negotiator
Rocky Mountain House, AB

As a nurse with a background in psychology, a lawyer, and someone who has spent a life time with horses, I was intrigued with Jim Marland's insight in matching horses to participants. It was a fun and non-threatening opportunity to learn more about how our communication and behaviours impact our relationship with others.

He has an uncanny and highly skilled manner of observation and timely interventions that were enlightening and left both my friend/colleague and myself with a deeper understanding of ourselves, both individually and as a collaborative team to find solutions.

As a family lawyer, I can see the value of the equine facility therapy that Jim offers to empower families to communicate in a positive, effect way that offers children the benefit of both parents being actively involved in their lives, as they transform into a new family unit after the difficult process of divorce.

Thanks Jim - it was a pleasure meeting you and your beautiful horses. Sincerely,

Gayle A. Langford
Nurse and Lawyer, Red Deer, AB

“Wonderful to be able to take concrete learning and apply it to the more abstract nature of our work.”

G.H., Red Deer, AB

“Great experience. Really made me think about my own qualities.”

L.D., Red Deer, AB

The [practical] interaction and theory was the perfect mix for learning. Communication is key in every area of one’s life.

N.K., Rocky Mountain House, AB

“Thank you for your willingness to walk along on my journey. I appreciate your desire for all people to have this type of "human experience". This learning in the horse arena to be used in the human arena is fascinatingly simple and yet very complex!! Some might even say: Deep.”

M.H., Rocky Mountain House, AB

“We learned to plan, communicate and ask questions to achieve our goals. Great metaphors.

Recommend other municipal councils.”     

Jack Ramme, CAO, Yellowhead  County   

“Exceeded my expectations! Thank you for helping to build my confidence in communications with others. “

J.D., Red Deer County  

“By increasing my self-awareness, it allowed me to utilize or enhance skills. The ability to draw the parallels was absolutely amazing. It brought clarity to the concepts and processes. Fun and effective in enhancing how we relate to people.”                        

J.E., Red Deer  County

I have had the opportunity, over the years, to observe Jim Marland as a presenter, facilitator and public speaker. Mr. Marland is multi-talented and comes equipped with the gifts to move easily with his audience through various facets of his workshops. He is very well prepared, knows his subject and displays an easy demeanour that welcomes listeners to participate. Jim Marland has a facility for words that make listeners comfortable. He is committed and focused and possesses a flexible set of techniques to provide structure to any group discussion. Jim Marland genuinely loves people and brings a lot of tools to the table. He cares about, not only what you and I are thinking and doing, but also what we as a society are doing. Jim Marland passionately focuses audiences on our needs today, the social challenges each of us face, and explores with us systematic ways of applying our innate natural laws in our everyday lives in order to make a difference in this world - not only for now but for future generations. Heady stuff but Jim Marland pulls it off.

Pat McDonald B.A. L.L.B. M.Ed Author, Historian, Educator
Rocky Mountain House, Alberta

"Thank you for your presentation, “Business Think, Business Talk”, to the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, which, in my opinion, was the most thought-provoking presentation I have experienced in some time. I especially enjoyed your presentation style, your humour and your use of stories, including the amazing story of successfully communicating with the reluctant horse to save her from the barn fire and the story of Max Planck and his chauffeur.
Thank you for the gift of the booklet, which is a very useful summary and list of references on critical thinking."

Peggy Birse, Red Deer, AB

As an Ambassador for the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, I had the pleasure of MCing James Marland’s presentation at our luncheon on January 7, 2009.

Our normally quiet group was fascinated by his presentation and asked thoughtful, interesting questions during the Q&A. James’ presentation was full of warmth and wit and provided a positive environment for our members to share their own related stories.

It was a memorable luncheon and I highly recommend James as a speaker / presenter who will entertain, educate and motivate your organization.

Desiree Bauer, HBDI-CP
2009-2010 Chair, Red Deer Chamber of Commerce, Ambassador Committee

Various Testimonials from the
Business Link Brown Bag Lunch Speaking Series
Funded by Federal and Provincial Governments
“ well informed speaker…great information…very knowledgeable… answered questions well…pleasant to listen to… relevant/good/useful ideas…good content…I enjoyed the session… he gave good examples one could apply to any situation…great—thanks!”