If I could give this retreat a 10 out of 10 I would! Amazing people, amazing family. The group my mom and I were with were so fun and encouraging. We made great friends and truly had the best time and learned so much. It relit a fire in me I had lost and a love for horses I had forgotten. Michael and Kelsey have hearts of Gold and so much information to share. They are fantastic teachers with so much patience and love. My first day at the retreat I was already planning our next visit. If you are an anxious rider or just need more information and want to have fun while learning this is the retreat for you. They are uplifting and don't make you feel bad when you just don't feel like you can get on the horse. They encourage you every step of the way and support you when you need it the most. Their entire family is amzing! Full families and generations of love and learning. Even if you are completely new to horses this is the place for you. Start right and learn as much as you can! They encourage every kind of question! I truly can't say enough about this retreat and the people. All of their staff is like family as well and just as encouraging. I can't thank them enough for their time and patience.

Faith and I had such a great time! Thank you all for everything. From the lessons, the the fun activities, food, fellowship… you all always over deliver and make us feel like family. We can’t wait for #3, and we will be bringing friends with us!

This was my second time attending a retreat. I really can't express just how much fun it is! The entire Gascon family and the crew are amazing!! Michael is a wonderful teacher; so patient, kind and it's no wonder he is his father's son, cuz Mr. Gascon is as amazing as well! I just can't find enough accolades and good things to say!! In addition, I continued to run into friends from the last retreat and meet more wonderful people! I still have Michael's teachings wheelin' around in my head and so excited to apply to my horses!! THANK YOU ALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEARD! I look forward to MORE retreats if God allows! :-)

Excellent, so much information, food was wonderful, accommodations so clean and well kept, everyone was so kind and helpful, great group of student that were so supportive, Micheal was so helpful, patient and kind. The nutrition class was enlightening, Kelsey was so reassuring and patient with me. I can’t wait to return, going to bring my granddaughter next time, until then will be working with the online challenges. I highly recommend this learning experience especially for new horse owners and beginner riders ❤️

This training/riding halter is a high quality tool for any horse person! It is well made and works great!

I have to admit I was skeptic, having joined other training programs that were NOT what they claimed. THIS program is beyond incredible, BEST money I ever spent ! I am learning more about training in just the first few days than I have in years following other programs. Michael is so clear and knows how to teach ! He simplifies things and also SHOWS you HOW to do the intended task. He’s brilliant and so funny which is refreshing to see. I can’t wait to continue in the program, if your skeptical or undecided, JOIN this amazing training program, yes it’s work, you HAVE to put in the work but it’s not difficult and you do it at your own pace. It’s life changing and my relationship with my horse has improved beyond what I ever thought was possible.

The Spring confidence Retreat at Horse Haven Ranch is more than just a training clinic; it is a profound shift in perspective for any horse owner. If you have spent years believing that horsemanship is a battle for dominance, Michael Gascon’s approach will be a revelation.
A New Philosophy of Connection
Michael’s teaching centers on the idea that training shouldn't be a fight for control. Instead, he demonstrates that true horsemanship comes from the miraculous clarity of a well-timed cue. This clarity transforms the horse-human relationship from one of friction to one of mutual understanding.
The Respect Series: This foundational program is the heart of the retreat. It moves away from "dominance" and toward establishing a "bubble" of mutual respect. By mastering these ground-level cues, you learn to communicate with such precision that the horse chooses to look to you for leadership rather than reacting in fear.
The Mirror Effect: The retreat emphasizes that horses hold up a quiet mirror to our own hearts. Your energy, patience, and clarity (or lack thereof) are reflected directly back to you by these animals, making the experience as much about personal growth as it is about equine education.
The Retreat Experience
Located in the rolling hills of Poplarville, Mississippi, the All-Inclusive Retreat offers a comprehensive environment for this transformation.
Instruction & Activities: Days are filled with Michael’s high-energy instruction, ranging from the Respect Series to advanced skills like cattle sorting and bridleless riding.
Southern Hospitality: The experience is rounded out by the Gascon family’s legendary hospitality, featuring home-cooked meals by Mrs. Cindy and the famous morning Cuban coffee.
Accommodations: Guests stay in a unique Western-style hotel or cozy cabins right on the ranch, ensuring you are never far from the horses. While larger groups can stay in the 4bedroom 2bath lodge with its quaint quiet atmosphere.
Whether you are an experienced rider or overcoming deep-seated fears, the Spring Retreat provides the tools to replace dominance with a bond built on crystal-clear communication and heart-to-heart connection

A superb value! I have never seen a family work as hard as this one. The information and knowledge disseminated could not have been easier to understand plus it all made sense. Everyone was friendly and helpful plus food was great and more than plentiful. A relaxing vacation for sure.

We had the best time at the Gaited retreat in March. We learned so much from Michael. Have several things to work on at home now.
Brooke also was very informative with her nutrition class. I never would have thought my horse had an ulcer, but after her segment I went out and bought the Outlast supplement and it has made a tremendous difference in my horse.
I would truly recommend any of Michael's retreats to anyone that needs help with there horses.
There hospitality is unparalleled, they take great care of you and the FOOD is awesome too.

What an amazing week focusing on gaited horses and all they are capable of doing - if only I can ask the right way :) Always amazing to hang with horse folk and be spoiled by Mrs. Cindi and her crew... its addicting the good feelings keep you coming back.

This was my 6th retreat...... and it never gets old! There is always something new to learn. As usual, the food, fun, and fellowship was exceptional. The horse training part was top notch. 5 stars, absolutely recommend!

Love it but it’s a tad bit small for my petite Paso Fino. He takes a 4 3/4” bit to compare his muzzle size.