Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessie Drage.
Hi Jessie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
What we’ve built today was born from one of the hardest chapters of our lives. Years ago, when Shaun was battling addiction, our world felt uncertain. Every day was a test of strength, faith, and perseverance. But instead of letting that season define us, we chose to grow through it — to rebuild our lives with purpose, grit, and compassion.
Through that struggle, we discovered a shared calling: to create something meaningful that would give both people and animals a second chance. That dream became Drage Second Chance Ranch — a place where healing happens quietly in the rhythm of work, the trust of horses, and the beauty of connection.
From humble beginnings — just a few rescue horses and a lot of heart — we built a nonprofit that now provides lessons, therapy programs, community events, and opportunities for youth and adults to find their footing again. Every stall, every fence post, every child who smiles during a lesson reminds us why we kept fighting.
Today, we’re proud of what we’ve created together: a working ranch, a place of refuge, and a symbol of resilience. It’s not just a business or a nonprofit — it’s living proof that hard work, grace, and second chances can transform everything.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all — but that’s what makes the story worth telling.
There’s been nothing easy about this road. When we started, we had more heart than resources, more vision than experience, and more obstacles than open doors. Shaun was fighting to rebuild his life after addiction, and I was learning how to keep everything — our family, the ranch, and our hope — together one day at a time.
We faced financial setbacks, physical exhaustion, and the emotional toll of trying to help both people and animals heal when we were still learning to heal ourselves. There were times when the barn lights stayed on long after dark, not because we were chasing success, but because we were simply trying to keep the dream alive.
But the struggle shaped us. It taught us how to work harder, trust deeper, and lead with empathy. Every challenge — from caring for a sick rescue horse to helping a child overcome fear — became another reminder that growth often happens in the hardest soil.
Today, when we look at what we’ve built — the thriving ranch, the community programs, the horses and people who’ve found peace here — we know that every setback was part of the foundation. The road wasn’t smooth, but it led us exactly where we were meant to be.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Drage Second Chance Ranch, we focus on creating a place where both people and horses can heal, grow, and find purpose again. We rescue, rehabilitate, and retrain horses — many of whom have been neglected, forgotten, or misunderstood — and pair them with individuals who are walking their own road to recovery or rebuilding.
Our programs bridge the gap between traditional horsemanship and emotional healing. We offer lessons, youth programs, and soon, unmounted equine therapy with a licensed psychologist. Whether it’s a child building confidence, a recovering addict learning trust, or a horse rediscovering safety, our work is rooted in connection — the kind that changes lives quietly and deeply.
We’re known for our genuine, no-frills approach. Everything we do is hands-on, honest, and real — you’ll find mud on our boots and heart in our work. Our students learn not just to ride, but to respect, communicate, and lead with empathy. It’s not about ribbons or competition; it’s about transformation — for both horse and human.
What makes us most proud is watching those transformations happen. Seeing a horse once labeled “untrainable” carry a nervous child with gentleness… or watching that same child grow into a confident, compassionate leader — those are the moments that remind us why we do this.
What sets us apart is our belief that second chances belong to everyone — horses, kids, adults, and families alike. We’ve lived that truth ourselves. Our ranch isn’t just a place for lessons — it’s a place to start over, to belong, and to remember what you’re capable of.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
For me, mentorship hasn’t always looked traditional. I didn’t have a single “guru” guiding the way — I learned by watching, listening, and asking questions whenever I could. Some of my best mentors didn’t even realize they were mentoring me; they were simply people who lived with integrity, resilience, and kindness, and I paid attention.
When it comes to networking, I’ve found that genuine relationships matter more than strategy. I connect best with people who share the same heart for service, community, and authenticity — not just business growth. I’ve learned to show up, to offer help before asking for it, and to follow through when I say I will. That simple consistency builds trust, and trust builds opportunities.
My advice would be to stay curious, stay humble, and stay real. Don’t look for the most successful person in the room — look for the one whose values mirror yours. Learn from people who live the kind of life you want to build, not just those who have the career you want to have.
And most of all, be willing to be a mentor yourself. The best connections I’ve made have come from helping others without expecting anything in return. That’s how true community — and true mentorship — takes root.
Pricing:
- Individual Riding Lessons $60
- Double Riding Lessons $85
- Group Riding Lessons $30
- Trail Rides $150
- Youth Programming & Recovery Programming $0
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drage2ndchanceranch.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drage2ndchanceranch/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dragesecondchanceranch
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dragesecondchanceranch9996
