Our Team

  • Kim Cochran

    Horses and youth have always been a large part of Kim’s life. Kim serves as the Director of The Equine Journey. She immerses herself in all things equine. Over the last 14 years Kim has devoted numerous hours in educating not only herself but the staff and students that participate in the multiple programs provided by The Equine Journey.

    U.S Center for SAFESPORT Certified

  • Lucy Lewis

    Lucy (aka Brooklynn’s mom) has been teaching in Polk County for 21 years. She has a BA in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Learning Disabilities.

    She believes that learning is a life long process that can take place not only in a classroom, but also through real life experiences and opportunities. She feels that working with horses helps build confidence, trust, social skills, communication, as well as many other important life skills that are not so easily learned for some children.

    When Lucy is not teaching she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and watching Brooklynn pursue her dream of riding horses.

  • Ernesto Alonso

    Alonso joined The Equine Journey in 2019, bringing with him an immense knowledge of equine care. Alonso is the Barn Manager, Head Groom and Exercise Rider.

Brooklynn Lewis

Riding Instructor/Counselor

Brooklynn Lewis has been a valued member of The Equine Journey for more than a decade. She began her involvement as a summer camp attendant and steadily advanced through the roles of equine assistant, senior equine assistant and now serves as a riding instructor and couselor.

At just 19 years old, Brooklynn demonstrates remarkable maturity and skill. She is an accomplished equestrian with a deep understanding of horse care and behavior. Possessing an exceptional intution for recognizing and responding to the needs of each horse. Her teaching reflects the same care and insight—she has a particular strength in working with timid riders, creating a safe and encouraging environment that allows each student to grow in confidence.

In addition to her contributions at the barn, Brooklynn is pursuing her academic and professopnal goals. She is currently attending the University of South Carolina Upstate, where she is enrolled in the nursing program. This dedication to both her education and her equestrian responsibilities reflects her commitment to serving others with compassion and excellence.

Brooklynn’s unique combination of equestrian expertise, teaching ability and caregiving spirit make her an indispensable member of The Equine Journey Team.

Lilly McAbee

Junior Equine Assistant

Lilly is a thirteen year old 8th grader, who has been apart of the Equine Journey for over five years. Her love for horses shines through in everything she does—from her beautiful grooming and braiding skills to the way she connects with each horse she rides. Lilly enjoys spending time with Latte and Sparkle and has most recently taken an interst in our two new icelandic ponies, Hal and Miss PiPi. Lilly is an excellent rider and a thoughtful caring mentor to younger riders just beginning their equestrian journeys. Her kindness, creativity and dedication make her an invaluable part of our barn family.

Carli Shobe

Youth Equine Assistant

Carli is 11 years old and a sixth grader at Boiling Springs Middle School.She has been riding with The Equine Journey for three years and has become a cherished part of our barn family. Through naturally shy, Carli’s time with the horses has helped her grow in confidence and courage. She has worked hard to overcome visual challenges that could have limited her, but instead, they have only deepened her determination and resilience.

Carli has a gentle heart and a quiet strength that shines through in her riding. She holds a special place in her heart for Stella and Sparkle and the bond she shares with them is insiring to see. Her patience, kindness, and perseverance remind us daily of the life lessons horses have to teach and of the strength that comes from believing in yourself. Carli’s journey makes her a beautiful example for other riders.

Leo Bravo a 12 year old seventh grader at PCMS whose dedication to horses shines both in and out of the arena. A naturally talented rider, Leo demonstrates impressive skill, patience and determination when working with our program horses. Beyond his riding ability he is also a caring and dependable caretaker, ensuring the horses are well looked after with attention to detail and compassion. His maturity, kindness and strong work ethic make him not only a valued member of our barn family but also a positive role model for his peers.

Adeline Bravo is the younger sister of Leo, she is ten years old and attends TRE where she excels in all thing academic. Adeline joins us at the barn and enjoys riding our new Icelandics, Hal and Miss PiPi.