Corro and HorseGrooms know that behind every great horse is a wonderful caregiver. That’s why each month, Corro and HorseGrooms select one member of HorseGrooms Insiders to celebrate their dedication to horses and their care. Whether you are a professional groom taking care of six or seven-figure horses or taking care of your own horses at home, at HorseGrooms, we believe that if you care for horses or like to learn about them, you belong here. HorseGrooms Insiders is for everyone who looks after horses, whether you are employed as a groom, manage your own herd, or help a friend on weekends.
HorseGrooms Insiders is an exclusive membership for everyone looking to learn, grow and connect with industry experts. Every Corro HorseGroom of the Month receives a $100 Corro gift card and is featured in a special interview. Go to horsegrooms.com/insiders to learn more.
Behind the Barn Doors: From Breeding to Nations Cup Glory. An Interview with Heidi Jäckel
How did your journey with horses begin?
Horses have been a part of my life since I was born. My father was a horse breeder, so I grew up surrounded by foals and horses in general. After I finished school, I was faced with the decision of following a more traditional path or fully committing to a career with horses.
The passion I have for horses made that choice very easy – of course I was going to choose a career with horses. At my first job, I spent three years learning everything I could. Breeding, riding, jumping, dressage, and even driving carriages – I did a little bit of everything. This gave me not only a strong foundation, but a deeper understanding of how vast the horse world truly is.
I ended up moving around between different breeding farms, sport stables, and stallion stations before eventually heading to the Netherlands. My goal was always to work at the highest level possible, and ideally go with Germany to the Nations Cups. That goal is what led me to my current position with André.
The opportunity to work with him came with one condition – I needed to get my truck driver’s license so I could travel across Europe. While it was a challenge for me, being able to travel across the continent was part of the dream, so I made it happen. Everything began to fall into place, and I’m so grateful for every step that has led me to where I am now.
How did your career in the horse industry evolve?
My path has been winding mostly because of my curious nature and desire to learn as much as possible. After my initial training, I worked for a variety of different types of barns to expand my experience. Every place I went taught me something new that has been valuable to me to this day.
Working with André has been a defying part of my career. Together, we’ve traveled, competed at top levels, and experienced glorious victories as well as devastating challenges. Being at major competitions now is the rewarding culmination of years of hard work.
What does your current role look like?
We are currently based in northern Germany about an hour outside of Berlin. The stables are beautiful and such a peaceful place to work. This type of calm environment is especially for the horse’s well-being. It’s surrounded by forest with excellently kept facilities including outdoor arenas, an indoor arena, and plenty of space for hacking out.
Stall Osterberg, Heidi’s work place when she is not at a horse show
The team works closely together as we have such a variety of horses on the property so everyone needs to stay informed. We have everything from young horses just starting out to experienced horses competing at the top levels. While I primarily take care of André’s horses, everyone collaborates with each other to ensure all of the horses are well cared for.
It’s very much a team effort with everyone supporting each other, and the horses benefit from that shared knowledge and consistency.
What does a typical day look like for you?
The day’s plans are usually set the evening prior to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. I start at around 8 am by feeding the horses, mucking out, and generally preparing everything for the day’s work.
One of our biggest priorities is ensuring the horses have adequate turnout time. We like to make sure they are spending as much of their time outside as possible. Having that time to relax and move freely is essential for their wellbeing.
While each day can look a little different, the overall goal is always the same – to keep things calm and consistent to accommodate for the individual needs of each horse.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
Never be afraid to ask for help.
When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to feel like you have to figure everything out on your own. But the people around you are there to help – other grooms, riders, trainers – don’t be afraid to ask them questions.
Most importantly, listen to the horses. If you’re really paying attention, the horses will always tell you what they need.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned that every groom should know?
Every horse is their own individual and they all have their own personalities and quirks. That’s why attention to detail is so important when it comes to their care. Knowing the little details such as how they like their hay, what time they want to come inside, or how they like to be brushed are what set good grooms and great grooms apart.
For example, one of the horses at the barn is really picky with their food. It took quite a bit of time to figure out what his specific needs are, but I put in the extra effort to figure out that he prefers his hay in a wheelbarrow instead of in a net or on the ground. Being observant and adaptable is key to being an excellent groom.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’ve had so many special moments throughout my career so far, but one that really stands out is winning the Nations Cup in La Baule in 2024. It was my first Nations Cup in Europe with the German team just like I had always dreamed about. I was still new to the level, so winning this early on was a huge accomplishment.
The real highlight of the event happened at the stables after the competition. I walked Chakaria back while carrying a very large bottle of champagne and still trying to process what had just happened. All of the riders, grooms, vets, and team members came to the stables to celebrate the victory together.
The best part however, wasn’t celebrating the win, it was celebrating all of the teamwork behind the win. It was truly a full-circle moment that I will never forget.
How do you stay motivated after long days at the stables?
Having a consistent routine for both myself and the horses is key. Keeping each day structured and familiar provides a sense of rhythm that’s calming for both myself and the horses.
Outside of the barn, I thrive on that simplicity and routine as well. I spend time with family and friends, stay active by doing activities such as yoga or Pilates, and enjoy spending time outdoors. Walking, swimming, or simply taking time to be out in nature is very soothing for me. Maintaining that balance helps me stay energized throughout the day.
How has the HorseGrooms community impacted your career?
HorseGrooms gives grooms a voice that is so incredibly important for our industry. Having a place where we are able to share our thoughts, opinions, and tips is a great way to connect. The opportunities to learn from others across the world is so valuable.
The exchange of knowledge is my favorite part of the platform. Learning from other professionals allows you to pick up new ideas to try yourself. It’s not about copying someone else, it’s about finding what works for you. In many ways, it reflects the best part of this industry: learning from each other and constantly growing.
Hey, Pssst…. Would You Like To Be Featured Too And Receive a $100 Corro Gift Card? Become a HorseGrooms Insider!
Would you also like to be featured on this website and receive a $100 Corro gift card? Become a HorseGrooms Insider! As an Insider, you could be selected as our next Corro HorseGroom of the Month, share your story with the community, and be recognized for your work behind the scenes.
Beyond that, Insiders get access to exclusive educational resources, monthly live Q&As with top grooms and industry experts, replays of all sessions, and direct access to HorseGrooms Mentors. You’ll also be part of a supportive community through the Insiders Chat, with additional perks like huge discounts and free resources designed to help you learn, grow, and feel more connected in your work with horses.
Learn more about HorseGrooms Insiders here: https://horsegrooms.com/horsegrooms-insiders-where-grooms-go-to-grow/ and here: https://horsegrooms.com/insiders.
Discount Code for Your Insiders Membership
Straight to the signup page for Insiders: https://community.horsegrooms.com/checkout/insider. Don’t forget to use the code CORRO10 for 10% off!
You can try Insiders with a 2-day free trial to see if it’s the right fit for you and we have a 10% discount code (CORRO10) for you to make it even more interesting.
Corro is an e-commerce platform dedicated to making it easier for equestrians, especially grooms, to get the supplies they need. Founded by horse owners, Corro offers a curated selection of top-quality horse care products, tack and barn essentials, including grooming tools, shampoos and everyday must-haves. With transparent pricing, fast shipping, autoship options and superior customer service, Corro provides a seamless and reliable shopping experience. Many of Corro’s team members have worked as professional grooms, so they understand the demands of the job and are committed to supporting the people behind the scenes. Visit corroshop.com to stock up on the essentials that keep horses looking and feeling their best.
