R+ Training Team
Meet our staff and trainers
At Via Nova, our team brings together strong riding foundations, modern behavioral science, and Positive Reinforcement in a way that supports the precision, consistency, and performance that traditional riders value and require.
We come from different disciplines, but we share the same belief and commitment to providing clear, thoughtful training that helps horses and riders reach their full potential without compromising their welfare.
Amanda Jay
Founder & Director
Amanda Jay is the Director and Visionary of Via Nova Training and the creator of Priority to Positive. She leads the development of practical, behavior-based tools that help equestrians understand what motivates their horses and how to communicate with clarity.
Her work bridges traditional riding goals with modern learning science, giving riders a structured, reliable way to bring out the best in their horses.
Gilly Slayter
Lead Trainer & Barn Manager
Gilly Slayter combines her background in education, competitive riding, and equestrian sport with a commitment to thoughtful, evidence-aligned training. She brings decades of practical experience, from upper-level competition to clinic instruction and day-to-day horse management. At Via Nova, Gilly leads training operations and helps riders apply positive reinforcement in a way that supports clear communication and steady progress.
Jasmine Piepho
PtP Supervisor & Trainer
Jasmine Piepho, Via Nova Assistant Trainer, joined Via Nova in 2021 as a Student Trainer. A valuable member of Via Nova’s team and program, Jasmine mentors and helps grow our team of trainers. Positive Reinforcement and our Priority to Positive training approach help test new practices and methods, and train our collection of green to experienced horses.
Our Training Team
Our trainers bring a wide range of experience across disciplines, from dressage and jumping to cooperative care and young horse development. Each shares a commitment to thoughtful training and the practical use of positive reinforcement.
Ashley May
Assistant Trainer II
Ashley has been an Assistant Trainer at Via Nova since 2023, moving to New Mexico from Dell Rapids, SD. She has always wanted to work with horses, originally planning… Meet Ashley
Ana Mittelstadt
Assistant Trainer II
Ana has been riding since she was 7, starting with western lessons before later moving to a hunter/jumper barn at 11. It didn’t take long to catch the bug, and shortly after, she entered… Meet Ana
Clara Mikovec
Assistant Trainer
Clara Mikovec joined Via Nova in fall 2024 as an Assistant Trainer, bringing curiosity, creativity, and a thoughtful approach to… Meet Clara