6477 East Hillside Drive, Cedar, Michigan 49621, United States
Founder: Wendy Intrieri
Growing up in Southern California, I had dreamt of working with dolphins. And that I did. After obtaining a biology degree from the University of San Diego, I lived that dream for over a decade in both San Diego and in Orlando, Florida. After a stretch in pharmaceutical manufacturing, my husband, 3 kids and myself decided to move to Northern Michigan for a change of pace and in hopes of me fulfilling dream #2. Opening an animal rescue.
Because of my experience with positive reinforcement training, I was tasked with working with Lilly. A severely challenging horse demonstrating PTSD type behaviors. After just a couple weeks, I knew Lilly would be forever mine. I adopted Lilly and my equine journey began.
I began partnering with Horse North Rescue, fostering some of their most challenging horses, with abused or questionable pasts, giving them a chance to trust people and have a path for adoption.
This is where Sea2Stable was born. This is my passion and mission.
Battling two chronic (non life threatening) health issues; the barn has been so much more for me, both physically and mentally. This has been truly life changing, too much of a blessing not to share.
I began working with a beautiful young lady who loves horses, and could benefit from lessons that focused on her communication challenges. Seeing her evolution from that first lesson, through today, makes my heart smile. This was catalyst #2, to open my doors, ASAP!!!!
I believe whole heartedly in what we do and how this mindset; benefits everyone in their daily lives. Whether it be the proven science, or simply witnessing; The messages, when practiced can heal, center, build leadership, and stay with you for life.
President: Julie Kradel
My humble beginnings began in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania which was just the beginning of experiences living in different states and counties. I also had the privilege(experience) of living in Toronto, Canada. Graduating High School in 1977 - heading to college(studying Horse Husbandry @ SUNY Morrisville) - returning home after one semester to sort through my life goals. After traveling through most of the eastern states and a few southern, I fell in love with Northern Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula. It held all that I hold dear in my life, water, natural resources, the beautiful outdoors. I was also able to realize another life goal of having my own business, Fat Pony Studios. Of which I am the creator, maker, accountant, marketer, ….etc. Wearing several ‘hats’ has helped me to be able to manage my time, to prioritize - time management. In addition to managing my farm which includes seven horses of various ages and sizes. Along with other assorted two and four legged beings.
For over forty years I was involved with 4-H. Initially in my youth being a member of the Windover Wonder Dogs(Erie County, New York), then as a leader-instructor in St Joseph County, Indiana and Oakland County, Michigan. I had the honor of serving on the Oakland County Horse council as President, as well as President for a number of years of Suttons Bay Art Fair Committee.
Studies have shown that a relationship with horses can help us emotionally, mentally, and physically. Which prompted me to become NARHA(North American Riding for the Handicapped) Instructor certified. The benefits that Sea2StableINC will bring to our community through the programs for both equine and people, will be invaluable.
Vice President: susan Keeslar
Secretary: Laurie Girardin
Laurie lives in Traverse City, MI where she and her husband Mark spend their Summers growing, caring for and marketing asparagus, raspberries and blueberries. Their Springer Spaniel, Vashti and Beagle, Wink round out the household while Laurie’s equine partner, Diamond T. Kelley, a wonderful Clydesdale mare, keeps Laurie very active riding trails and pampering Kelley with lots of grooming and treats!
Laurie has been certified with PATH (ESMHL), CHA (Facilities Management) and WISE (Life Coach) along with several certifications related to her career in resort management. She has worked with Equestrian Services, planning and opening a signature Equestrian Property in northern Florida; served several years on the Board of Reining Liberty Ranch. The opportunities to volunteer in many of the ranches’ programs for Veterans, Veteran Families and underserved children and adults is something that Laurie is very grateful for. She is currently a Board Member of Making Strides, which offers hippotherapy for children and adults in need and volunteers with leading and side walking for sessions with the Making Strides clients under the direction of the owner and Occupational Therapist.
Co-creating Equestrian Connection programs with an amazing ‘horse friend’ has brought many positive results forward for horses and their handlers, volunteers and caregivers. Laurie guides others in learning how to ‘speak and listen’ the equine language which is deeply rewarding for all included.
Being hospitable, mindful and grateful are core values that promote Equine Therapy and joining horses with humans promotes life enrichment from present evaluations to achieving goals in an amazing
pathway to fulfillment.
Treasurer: Jan Youker
Jan has lived in Northern Michigan her entire life, having grown up on a small farm in
Buckley where her father owned Belgian Draft horses, and her mother had mini horses.
Through her life she has experienced much joy being around horses and other animals.
She was able to witness the amazing connection horses have with people and the
absolute joy and peace they bring when her son, Justin, who was diagnosed with a
genetic disorder, was able to attend counseling sessions at the Peace Ranch. Through
a collaborative effort between the Peace Ranch, Reigning Liberty Ranch and Making
Strides Justin was able to fulfill his dream of once again riding a horse.
Jan works for a privately held, trust-only bank. She has received her Accredited Wealth
Management Advisor designation and has over 20 years of experience in finance and
client service. She has worked with many organizations as a volunteer including the
Interlochen Chamber of Commerce, Peach Ranch, Lions Club and Munson Hospice.
Each year, in memory of her son, donations are collected for area organizations that
assisted with his care. In 2024, a blood drive was held and previous years blankets
were collected for Hospice and toys and games for Munson’s Child Life program.
With all 4 of the kids now out on their own or in college, Jan lives with her 2 dogs, Rosie
and June. In her free time she enjoys reading, beaches, time with family and friends and
exploring beautiful Northern Michigan.
Board Member: Kelsey Lauer
Kelsey is a lifelong horse lover. After sitting on a horse for the first time at the age of three, she has been involved with horses in one way or another ever since. She is currently owned by an Arabian/Saddlebred cross mare named Zara, who enjoys long pampering sessions and eating everything in sight. Smoothies are her favorite!
Professionally, Kelsey is a registered nurse who works in the recovery room at the local hospital and also does freelance writing/editing. Before becoming a nurse, she worked for a local nonprofit for five years, where she was involved in marketing and box office and volunteer management. She holds bachelor's degrees in English and nursing. She has volunteered for local organizations that include the National Writers Series, Goodwill, PEACE Ranch, and Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.
Kelsey lives in Traverse City with her husband Colin and enjoys spending time outside, hiking, gardening, kayaking, and reading when she's not at work or hanging out with the horses.
Board Member : Ashley Redinger
Ashley is a Michigan native and lover of northern Michigan. She graduated from CMU with a degree in Recreation Parks and Leisure Services Administration. Ashley has spent her professional career serving in nonprofit organizations from an animal shelter to two zoos, and currently with human services. She has had a love of horses since she was a child and loves opportunities to go horse riding as an adult. Ashley has experience in events, volunteer management, and fundraising with nonprofits. As well as an advocate of Disability, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility with a certification in Disability Mentoring from the National Disability Mentoring Coalition. She is looking forward to serving Sea 2 Stable and its mission.
Ashley lives in Traverse City with her husband, two children, and two dogs. She loves enjoying northern Michigan and its natural beauty. Ashley feels fulfilled when spending her time in nature.
