Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddy Yangnouvong.
Hi Maddy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey with GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga actually started as a guest in June 2024. I stumbled across one of their classes on Groupon and thought, “This looks so cool!” I had no idea something like this existed right here in metro Atlanta. I’ve always been someone who loves trying new and unique experiences—especially anything wellness-related—so of course, I had to check it out.
From the moment I arrived, I felt something special. The peaceful energy of the space, the sweet and silly therapy goats, the warm and welcoming staff, and the mindful instructor—it was all a 10/10. But beyond the fun and the novelty, I truly felt a shift in my energy. Those goats aren’t just cute—they’re trained, therapy animals, and they really do help you reconnect, reset, and feel grounded.
Months went by, and I still couldn’t stop thinking about how that one class made me feel. It stuck with me in the best way, and I knew I wanted to be part of it in a bigger way. So, I took a leap and sent the team a message on Instagram, along with a two-minute video recording where I pitched myself, shared my passion, and explained how I could help grow their brand and spread their mission.
At first, I didn’t hear back, but I stayed hopeful. Eventually, the CEO called me, and after hearing me out, he literally created a role for me. Since then, I’ve been GGA’s Outreach Coordinator and Administrative Assistant, and it’s been up ever since!
My role involves forming partnerships, expanding our presence across Georgia, and helping more people experience the healing magic of our goats and classes. We’ve grown so much—hosting wellness events at breweries, parks, schools, hotels, and even community events. But what I’m most proud of is how aligned I feel with our mission: Bringing awareness to mental health through animal assisted therapy.
GGA was founded on the belief that healing can look different for everyone—and sometimes, it looks like laying on a yoga mat in nature while a goat snuggles next to you. I’ve met people from all walks of life through this work, and the impact these animals have had on them (and on me) has been nothing short of amazing. I’m so proud to be part of something that brings so much peace, laughter, and love.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road—especially since I started during the winter of 2024, which is naturally our slow season. All of our classes are hosted outdoors to stay true to the peaceful, nature-based experience we offer. And while we do have a large enclosed outdoor deck that’s tarped in with heaters to keep things cozy, attendance still tends to slow down when it’s colder outside.
But instead of letting that discourage me, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to prepare. I used those early months to really dive in and get familiar with GGA’s systems, policies, and overall operations. Since I also assist on the administrative side in addition to my sales role, it was important for me to understand our platform and workflow inside and out.
I spent a lot of time researching businesses and organizations we could partner with. I created a detailed Excel sheet of prospects and revisited past client and partner lists to see who might want to collaborate again. It was all about planting seeds.
Once spring arrived and the weather warmed up, everything started moving fast—and suddenly, we were booked and busy! I work closely with our CMO, who’s been incredibly helpful, but I definitely struggled at times with figuring out how to prioritize, manage my time, and create structure in my day. I’m extremely passionate (still am!) about spreading the word, and I often found myself wanting to do everything all at once.
This is such a niche industry, and I genuinely love introducing people to it. What keeps me going are the smiles I see at our events and the heartfelt messages I hear afterward. When someone tells me that GGA brought them joy, peace, or a much-needed mental break—it reminds me exactly why I love what I do.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga?
GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga is Atlanta’s premier destination for animal-assisted wellness. We offer a variety of experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and their inner peace—all through the magic of our therapy goats and cows.
While we’re best known for our signature goat yoga classes, we offer so much more! Our offerings include Pilates with goats, guided hiking sessions with goats, “Mindful Movements and Reiki with Goats,” “Goat Zen & Sound Bath” sessions, goat cuddling, and cow cuddling with our gentle giants. We also host private events—from birthday parties to corporate team-building—making wellness fun, unique, and accessible for everyone.
All of our classes are inclusive and outdoor-based, held either at our peaceful Zen Farm in Tucker, GA, or offsite at partner locations across Georgia. What makes us even more special is that we’re fully mobile and equipped to bring the experience to you. Whether it’s a park, brewery, apartment complex, school, or hotel—we can transform just about any space into a serene sanctuary.
GGA was founded in 2021 with a mission to bring awareness to mental health through animal-assisted therapy. Since then, we’ve been blessed to grow with the support of our community and have been featured on major platforms like Atlanta First News, Fox 5, WJHG, The Portia Show, and even Love & Hip Hop Atlanta. We’ve also been spotlighted by numerous influencers across social media who have fallen in love with our goats and our mission.
What truly sets us apart is the heart behind our brand. Our goats and cows are not just cute—they’re therapy animals, raised and trained to interact gently and intuitively with people of all ages. Our team puts immense care into creating a safe, welcoming, and joyful environment where people can truly let go, feel seen, and leave lighter than when they came.
We’re also proud to be a locally and Black and Minority-owned business, built with intention and love. We pride ourselves on being a space for everyone. Our classes are inclusive to all ages, races, backgrounds, and walks of life. We’ve had participants as young as 19 months and as seasoned as 80+ years old. And just as importantly, we’re proud of our diverse staff, who reflect the beauty and variety of the community we serve.
At the end of the day, we want people to know that healing doesn’t have to look like a silent retreat or a traditional therapy session. It can be playful, warm, and unexpected. Whether you’re looking for a good stretch, a mental reset, or a mood boost—we’ve got you!
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is just being outside all day with the neighborhood kids—riding bikes, swimming at the pool, playing tag, and just soaking up every bit of sunshine. We didn’t have phones or social media—just each other, some sidewalk chalk, and the kind of freedom that only summer could bring. Those were the days that felt the most alive to me.
I also grew up always wanting to be around animals. I was that kid who tried to rescue every stray dog or cat I saw. There was something so calming about being near them—even before I really understood why. Animals made me feel grounded and safe, like I could just be myself.
Family gatherings were another core memory—being surrounded by food, laughter, and people who made me feel seen and loved. It was the kind of connection that left a lasting imprint.
Looking back, it makes perfect sense why I do what I do now. I get to work with animals, help people smile, and create peaceful, joyful experiences for others. Little me would be so proud. Everything’s come full circle—and it feels so right.
Pricing:
- Goat Yoga $35
- Goat cuddling $40
- Pilates with Goats and Hiking with Goats $40
- Mindful Movements & Reiki with Goats $50
- Cow Cuddling $60
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ggadwarfgoatyoga.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gga_dwarfgoats/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ggadwarfgoatyoga/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gga-dwarf-goat-yoga
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ggagoats
Image Credits
Credits to:
GGA Dwarf Goat Yoga Team
Alice Bredland Gwinnett County Events Photographer
