Meet Chanel Rhodes | Equestrian Entrepreneur & Resort Barn Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chanel Rhodes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chanel, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson that my business has taught me is that it is important to think outside of the box and never give up on your dreams. You are defined by what’s in your heart; a part of that is what you’re passionate about. Once you realize that you may face some adversity when you introduce it to the public and struggle with the process of pursuing your dream, this teaches perseverance.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am so grateful for my development over time and excited about future opportunities. This has not been an easy journey; although I have enjoyed myself along the way, there have been moments of feeling low, overlooked and misunderstood. I believe that God is on my side, so I will not stop pushing for my destiny. I look to Him for guidance, strength, and direction, which has brought me to a place in my life where I find myself with a unique platform and a life full of passion. I now have a career, own a business, and started a non-profit based on my passion for horses. The 5-year-old, horse-crazy me would be in total shock. She forced herself to dream about riding horses when she went to bed.

I want people to understand that personal development and changing your thinking is crushing. My character has been poked and shredded throughout the pursuit of my passion. I have allowed myself to be molded by my experiences and learn from life’s lessons. I take what I have learned and implement it into everyday life, which in turn leads me to more open doors.

I have learned that every great thing accomplished takes time, and failing is a part of that journey. I dream big, so big dreams take BIG WORK. I have also learned that it is important to help others in their development. As I gain more traction and grow my platform, it is important to encourage others and show genuine care for their journey. Someone had to encourage me, so now I’ll pay it forward.
Don’t give up on your dreams, live a passionate life, be kind and encourage others.

My story and brand are unique, I am a first generation equestrian that has ridden different riding styles(english, western, bareback(not broncs), and charro) and drives carriages. I am an equestrian entrepreneur with a niche business whose products have been used by equestrians worldwide, seen on television, used in fashion shoots and used in productions. I am a resort barn manager and the owner of a non-profit that is geared towards providing an agricultural experience to anyone that does not have access to horses and an agricultural lifestyle.

I also want to add, the equestrian sport is vast and full of diversity. We each have a different story.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I were to host a good friend for the week, we would definitely hit all of the So-Cal theme parks. Disneyland, California Adventure, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, here we come! I would also take them wine tasting in Temecula. We would of course go horse back riding on my favorite herd. We would also visit downtown LA near Sunset Blvd and hit up the Museum Of Illusion for some epic pictures and visit the Magic Castle. We would also have to go to a couple of my favorite Museums like the Gene Autry and The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Last but not least we have to visit my favorite city, the LBC! I would take them to the Shoreline Village, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and do some whale watching. We can get all of this accomplished if we don’t sleep the week, but it would be worth it. Also, fun fact, Ive worked at a lot of these places 😅.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I was 5 years old, I asked my mother if black people rode horses. She told me that it was okay to love horses, it’s important to live my life with passion, and to follow the path that God has laid out for me. I wouldn’t have walked this path without her encouragement. I dedicate this article to my amazing mom, my hero. She has supported me every step of the way. Love you, Mom. Thank you for EVERYTHING!

Website: Manetresses.com

Instagram: Chanel_chanel, manetressescc

Linkedin: Chanel “Cowgirl Chanel” Rhodes

Facebook: Manetressesscc

Other: TikTok- Cowgirlchanelmt