Narsis Whigham grew up in Chicago and learned horses on his family’s 125-acre farm in Mississippi, riding the bus south by himself as a teenager to get back to the barn. A Batesville couple who bred spotted Tennessee Walking Horses put him on his first true walking horse, and that ride set the path. Today he trains, shows, judges, and works in equine-assisted services at Mississippi State.
In this episode, Narsis explains what a gaited horse really is and why once you ride a well trained mount, you’ll never go back. He talks about learning to judge by chasing down judges after his own classes, why he places the horse and not the rider, prioritizing rear-end engagement in a ring built around front-end action. He also gives an insider’s read on where the walking horse industry stands now: field trial horses selling for five figures, growth in flat-shod classes, the return of padded horses, and an industry that knows it has a PR problem.
Mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Narsis at The Walking W on Facebook and @thewalkingw_r2t on Instagram and TikTok
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like and subscribe! It helps get the podcast out to new listeners. I mean, while you’re at it you should share it with a friend! I’m sure they’ll enjoy this episode as much as you did.
Join Us at Kinship Conference
Mark your calendar: November 6–7, 2026 in Greensboro, NC.
Kinship is a two-day gathering for Black horse folks across every discipline. The FIRST event of its kind, Kinship is built on connection, mentorship, skill-sharing, and honoring the stories that shaped us. If you’re looking for real community and real pathways forward in the horse industry, this is where you belong.
✨ Grab your ticket(s) TODAY: https://www.blkinthesaddle.com/kinship
Let’s Keep in Touch:
Support the podcast on Patreon→ @blackinthesaddle
Join the newsletter to be the first to know EVERYTHING BITS : https://blkinthesaddle.kit.com/3e1170…
Follow Black In the Saddle on Instagram @blkinthesaddle
Follow Abriana on Instagram @theabrianaj
Advertising Disclosure
Some links or mentions in this episode may be promotional or include affiliate partnerships. We only share what aligns with the values of Black in the Saddle and serves our community.
Black horsefolks are some of the most empowering people in our industry. From your equestrian pursuits, to your personal endeavors, you have a story to tell. Join the ranks of 85+ amazing guests who have graced this podcast with their story by submitting your story/topic below.
