How Heartland Galloped Me Away from My Desk Job to a Life with Horses

Growing up in Australia during the late '90s and early 2000s, I was glued to The Saddle Club, a quirky show filmed locally but based on Bonnie Bryant’s American books. It fueled my childhood dream of galloping through fields, a passion that faded as adult life took over. Years later, a Canadian series, Heartland, reignited that spark, pushing me to swap my office chair for a saddle and build a life around horses.

Heartland, which debuted in 2007 and now boasts 17 seasons, is a wholesome family drama based on Lauren Brooke’s novels. Set on a sprawling Alberta ranch, it follows Amy Fleming (Amber Marshall), a young horse whisperer who heals troubled equines with her intuitive approach. The show blends cozy family moments with occasional soap-opera drama—think barn fires or car accidents—but its heart lies in the bond between humans and horses, set against Alberta’s stunning mountains. I stumbled upon it on Netflix in 2016, just as I was dipping my toes back into riding lessons. What started as a nostalgic pastime soon spiraled into a life-changing obsession.

The show’s magic lies in its depiction of the horse-human connection. Amy’s bond with Spartan, a rescue horse she saves with her late mother, evolves from trauma to trust, culminating in showjumping success. While such transformations are rare in reality, the portrayal captivated me. It wasn’t just the story—it was the sweeping cinematography of Alberta’s landscapes, the ranch’s rustic charm, and Amy’s quiet determination in the round pen that made me yearn for a simpler, nature-filled life.

When I bought my first horse, a spirited mare, I faced challenges that tested my resolve—falls, bruises, and moments of doubt. I found myself thinking, “What would Amy do?” Her perseverance inspired me to push through, learning to handle my mare’s quirks. My second horse, a cautious six-month-old filly, was terrified of face touches. Drawing on Heartland’s natural horsemanship vibe, I studied gentle training techniques, spending months building trust until she accepted a halter and now loves ear scratches. She’s nearly three and ready for saddle training.

The toughest moment came with my third horse, struck by a mysterious illness. As I grappled with his uncertain fate, I rewatched Heartland episodes where Amy faces a similar crisis with Spartan, weighing surgery or euthanasia. Those scenes gave me emotional strength; my horse recovered, and we now manage his condition with a clear plan.

Today, I own three horses, compete modestly in dressage, eventing, and showjumping, and visit them twice daily—though my bank account reflects the cost. Heartland’s idyllic ranch life and Amy’s grit pushed me to trade financial stability for passion. Even if horses aren’t your thing, the show’s gentle charm, lovable cast, and golden fields make it a soothing watch. Stream it on Netflix or Amazon Prime, but don’t be surprised if you start browsing local stables afterward—I warned you!