Joanna ‘Jo’ Nichols

Joanna Nichols is the Ranch Manager at MEA, where she leads a hands-on ranch program focused on horsemanship, regenerative practices, and meaningful guest experiences.

Her connection to horses began at age four, growing up riding, caring for animals, and competing in horse shows. She later became a collegiate tennis player and art major, with a lifelong passion for creativity.

After working as a teaching tennis professional and decorative artist in Austin, Texas – where she also built a successful 1,500-member networking community – Joanna felt called back to her roots. That path came full circle when she met her husband, a renowned horse trainer, and returned to ranch life.

At MEA, she’s built a growing program that includes cattle management, regenerative grazing, and guest experiences such as trail rides, cattle drives, and carriage rides – bringing her lifelong passions together in a purposeful way.