Ep 312: One-on-One with Foundations Certification Graduate, Paige Whittaker
In this week's episode, I am joined by Paige Whittaker, who is a recent graduate of our Foundations Certification Program.
When I first met Paige at a clinic in Quinton, VA, it was clear she was a student of the game. She didn’t just show up to improve her horsemanship—she showed up with a desire to grow in every area of her life.
Over the past few years, Paige has continued to invest in herself and her program, staying committed to the process and consistently applying what she’s learned. Watching her evolution—as both a person and a professional—has truly been a privilege.
Meet Paige Whittaker
Paige is the owner and operator of Still Ridge Farm, a two-generation, family-oriented facility nestled on 37 scenic acres in the heart of Hanover County, Virginia. Still Ridge Farm offers a wide range of services—from equine training and boarding to lessons and camps—all designed to enrich the lives of both animals and people as partnerships are built and strengthened with confidence.
Paige Whittaker and Phil Haugen
To obtain her Foundations Certification, Paige had to complete a minimum requirement of mentorship programs at our training facility.
Our mentorship programs are built on three pillars:
Advanced Horsemanship – clear communication, leadership, and consistent releases.
Personal Development – self-talk, self-image, and mental preparation that support confident riding and coaching.
Branding, Marketing & Business – positioning, service design, and messaging so your work supports a sustainable life.
Throughout her certification journey, Paige leaned into all three. She’ll tell you her riding is night-and-day different, but she’ll also tell you her self-image and mindset are what unlocked consistent progress—in the arena, and in how she shows up for people.
Paige gained not only valuable progression in her program, but also new friendships and partnerships with other participants who were committed to the same journey. Paige prioritized being around people who’d push her to be better—spiritually, personally, and professionally. As Paige says, “iron sharpens iron.”
Paige, I’m proud of you. You earned this certification—and more importantly, you’ve used the process to lift horses and people around you. This isn’t the finish line; it’s a mile marker. We’re just getting started.
God bless each and every one of you. Have a great week of training—and as always, today and every day, let’s be our best.
