Our Philosophy & Leadership
Discover the heart and vision behind BEYOND liberty
Our Philosophy
At the heart of our retirement sanctuary and equine education center is a philosophy shaped by the pioneering work of Carolyn Resnick—a renowned horse communicator, author, and advocate for the emotional well-being of horses.
In her acclaimed memoir Naked Liberty, Carolyn recounts the formative summers she spent living among wild horses as a child. Through these experiences, she came to understand how to align with a horse’s natural rhythms and emotional language—honoring their autonomy and cultivating relationships through connection.
“A central practice of her approach is Sharing Territory—spending time in a calm, neutral state in the presence of horses, without agenda. In this shared stillness, a bond can develop organically.”
Carolyn Resnick
Inspired Approach
Our Leadership
Dedicated professionals committed to our mission
Angel Batt, MSW
Founder & President
Social Worker for Horses
Advocate for Horse Justice
About Angel
Angel Batt is a master-level social worker whose lifelong work has centered on justice, equity and advocacy. She brings decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and trauma-informed care to her work with both humans and animals.
Her compassion and steadfast commitment to equity have guided a distinguished career in social service, earning her recognition as Woman of the Year for California’s 21st Assembly District.
Angel comes to horses not as a trainer or therapist, but as a social worker – a witness and advocate – for their consent, their voice, and their agency.
“I consider myself a social worker for horses—called to advocate for their well-being and help others understand their truth.” —Angel Batt
Board of Directors
Angel Batt, MSW
President | Founder
social worker | nonprofit specialist
Joanna Oshman
Vice President
non-profit governance
Adam Tostado
Treasurer
financial management | auditing | compliance
Rick Batt, JD
Secretary
intellectual property | legal strategy | compliance.
Jenifer Lineau Thompson
Director
educator | community outreach
Ready to Experience the Connection?
Schedule a visit or learn more about how you can become involved.
Our Philosophy
At the heart of our retirement sanctuary and community wellness center is a philosophy shaped by the pioneering work of Carolyn Resnick—a renowned horse communicator, author, and advocate for the emotional well-being of horses.
In her acclaimed memoir Naked Liberty, Carolyn recounts the formative summers she spent living among wild horses as a child. Through these experiences, she came to understand how to align with a horse’s natural rhythms and emotional language—honoring their autonomy and cultivating relationships through connection.
A central practice of her approach is Sharing Territory—spending time in a calm, neutral state in the presence of horses, without agenda. In this shared stillness, a bond can develop organically.
At BEYOND liberty, we honor Carolyn’s legacy—echoing her call to slow down, become still, and be fully present. In this quiet presence, and through observation, a deeper consciousness begins to awaken—one that arises not through doing, but through being. When we allow nature and horses to share their spirit and wisdom on their terms, authentic connection unfolds and awakening becomes possible.
Leadership
Angel Batt, MSW
Founder & President
Social Worker for Horses
Advocate for Horse Justice
Angel Batt is a Master-level Social Worker (MSW) whose compassion and unwavering commitment to justice have been guiding forces throughout her career. Her impressive record in nonprofit administration and tireless dedication to the unseen and underprivileged, as well as her advocacy for those whose voices are unheard, once earned her the distinguished honor of Woman of the Year for California’s 21st Assembly District.
Angel considers herself a social worker for horses; she has been called to advocate on their behalf and speak their truth.
Board of Directors
Angel Batt, President
Joanna Oshman, Vice President
Adam Tostado, Treasurer
Rick Batt, Secretary
Jenifer Lineau Thompson, Director
