The Fifth Gait Podcast

Mackenzie Durbin & Carrie Hill
  • 5.0 (25)
  • EDUCATION

Welcome to the Fifth Gait Podcast: We ( Carrie Hill & Mackenzie Durbin ) have thrown around the idea of a podcast for years - but we finally made it happen, stuck in the truck together on a 10-hour road trip home from a horse show. Our passion is the Icelandic horse - and all aspects of the worldwide community that surrounds this breed. Here, we come together as equestrian professionals to share our hardest lessons, biggest wins and our future hopes in Icelandic horsemanship. Our conversations aim to educate, inspire and grow all people like us, who love Icelandic horses - from enthusiasts and amateurs, to trainers, competitors and field specialists. Our topics cover all things care practices, training systems, Icelandic horse history, sport competition, breeding and much more. Join us! On The Fifth Gait Podcast Watch Us On YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheFifthGaitPodcast Follow Us On Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/fifthgaitpodcast

  1. 14. The Future of Icelandic Horsemanship | Reflections, Sales & 2026 Goals

    FEB 10

    14. The Future of Icelandic Horsemanship | Reflections, Sales & 2026 Goals

    In Episode 14 of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we kick off the new year with an honest, reflective conversation about the past, present, and future of Icelandic horsemanship. Recorded on our way to Iceland for a sales horse trip, this episode dives into our biggest lessons from 2025, what we’re most excited about in 2026, and how our businesses, training goals, and perspectives as horse people are evolving. We discuss the growth of our students, workshops, and competitive journeys, along with a major shift: stepping intentionally into Icelandic horse sales and what ethical, community-driven horse sales should look like in the U.S. market. We also explore larger themes shaping the horse industry today — from the value of real, in-person experiences to personal responsibility, horse welfare, practical care practices, and the future of horsemanship beyond scores and rankings. This episode is a thoughtful look at where the Icelandic horse community is headed, why ownership matters, and how curiosity — not shame — can move our industry forward. Topics covered: Icelandic horsemanship in 2026Reflecting on 2025 highlights & student successEthical Icelandic horse sales & importing horses from IcelandBuilding strong horse-and-rider partnershipsLiberty training & bridleless competitionWorkshops vs clinics in horse educationHorse care, welfare, and practical managementThe future of horsemanship beyond competition scores🎧 Whether you’re an Icelandic horse owner, trainer, competitor, or lifelong student of horsemanship, this episode offers grounded insight and forward-thinking conversation. Watch on YouTube Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

    39 min
  2. 13. Þorgeir Guðlaugsson - International Sport Judge, Writer, Educator & Icelandic Horse Historian

    11/16/2025

    13. Þorgeir Guðlaugsson - International Sport Judge, Writer, Educator & Icelandic Horse Historian

    In Episode 13 of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with one of the most influential voices in the Icelandic horse world: Þorgeir Guðlaugsson. Known as an international sport judge, writer, educator, innovator, and respected Icelandic horse historian, Þorgeir brings decades of insight into the development of Icelandic horse sport, judging methodology, training philosophy, and the future of our community. From his childhood on a farm with over 200 horses, learning from his legendary grandfather, to becoming one of the most recognized judges across Europe and the United States, Þorgeir shares extraordinary stories, lessons, and perspectives that every rider, trainer, breeder, and judge can learn from. We explore: • How Þorgeir’s early experiences shaped his philosophy on horsemanship • The psychology of horse training and maintaining the horse’s spirit • Becoming an international sport judge — and why he never wanted to quit • Objectivity vs. subjectivity in sport judging • Biomechanics, gait analysis, and the future of measurement-based judging • Why Icelandic horse welfare is leading the equestrian world • The strengths and flaws in today’s competition system — and how to improve it • The forgotten history of Icelandic horses in America (1880s–1920s!) • What riders misunderstand most about judging • The future of five-gait competition and pace tests • The importance of community, cooperation, and preserving our sport This is one of the deepest, most insightful conversations we’ve had on the podcast — packed with wisdom, history, and forward-thinking ideas that will challenge the way you look at Icelandic horses, training, and competition. If you are passionate about the Icelandic horse, this episode is simply unmissable. WATCH on YouTube Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

    1h 10m
  3. 12. Virginia Lauridsen — Developing Riders, Trainers & Breeding in the U.S.

    11/01/2025

    12. Virginia Lauridsen — Developing Riders, Trainers & Breeding in the U.S.

    In Episode 12 of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Virginia — USIHC President, Icelandic horse breeder, certified trainer, former professional opera singer, and lifelong equestrian. From competing as a show jumper and running a bustling boarding barn to discovering the magic of Icelandic horses, Virginia shares her inspiring journey through the horse world and beyond. We dive into: Her transition from the opera stage to the stableHow she fell in love with Icelandic horsesBuilding thriving riding schools & growing the Icelandic community in the U.S.The role of leadership, mentorship, and positive energy in horsemanshipBreeding goals for the future of Icelandic horses in AmericaDeveloping trainers, education, and youth involvement in the USIHCThe importance of harmony, partnership, and listening to your horseWhy horses are better than therapy — and how they bring out the best in usVirginia also shares her insights on Icelandic culture, traveling to Iceland, attending the World Championships, and the future of U.S. Icelandic horse breeding and sport Whether you’re passionate about Icelandic horses, equestrian education, dressage, breeding, or simply pursuing joy in partnership with horses, this episode will inspire you to keep growing, stay curious, and enjoy the journey. Watch on YouTube Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

    48 min
  4. 11. Hulda Geirsdóttir – Lessons from a Judge, Breeder, and Storyteller of Iceland

    10/17/2025

    11. Hulda Geirsdóttir – Lessons from a Judge, Breeder, and Storyteller of Iceland

    In this episode, we sit down with Hulda Geirsdóttir—international FEIF judge, Icelandic horse breeder, journalist, and radio host—to explore her multifaceted journey through horsemanship and media. Hulda shares how she blends storytelling and horses, her path from Iceland to Colorado State University, and the creation of her legendary stallion Frister frá Feti syndicate. We dive deep into her philosophy on judging, horse welfare, and the future of sport competition, plus her reflections on community, education, and the evolving “social license” of horse sport. Whether you’re a dedicated Icelandic horse enthusiast, a judge in training, or passionate about ethical horsemanship, this conversation offers wisdom, humor, and heart from one of Iceland’s most respected voices. Watch it on YouTube Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

    1h 6m
  5. 10: Jessie Huijbers & Hörður Óli Sæmundarson - Training Young Horses & Breeding for Character

    10/10/2025

    10: Jessie Huijbers & Hörður Óli Sæmundarson - Training Young Horses & Breeding for Character

    In this episode of The Fifth Gait Podcast, hosts sit down with Iceland-based trainers Jessie Huijbers and Hörður Óli Sæmundarson of Gröf Farm to explore the art and science of Icelandic horse training. They share their journeys from the Netherlands and Iceland to Hólar University, discuss their systematic approach to starting young horses, and explain why discipline, lightness, and clear communication are key to balanced, confident mounts. The pair also dive into breeding philosophy, preserving five-gait genetics, the influence of legendary Vatnsleysa bloodlines, and how to produce reliable, honest horses suited for both competition and everyday riders. Listeners gain rare insight into modern Icelandic horsemanship, training ethics, and the evolving future of horse breeding and welfare. SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

    47 min
  6. 9: Patrick Sullivan - Gamilah Unbridled & The Power of Liberty - Giving Horses Freedom to Think, Move, and Connect

    09/26/2025

    9: Patrick Sullivan - Gamilah Unbridled & The Power of Liberty - Giving Horses Freedom to Think, Move, and Connect

    In this episode of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Patrick Sullivan of Gamilah Unbridled, a renowned liberty trainer and brideless rider best known for his incredible cross-country ride from California to Kentucky on his horse Gamilah. Patrick shares how he discovered liberty horsemanship, the lessons he’s learned from rescue horses, and why freedom within boundaries builds deeper trust and connection. We dive into: How Patrick’s journey into liberty training began and why it reshaped his approach to horses.The role of faith and core values in his horsemanship and business.The unique strengths (and challenges) of working with Icelandic horses compared to other breeds.Insights from rescue horse rehabilitation and what owners can do to prevent horses from ending up in rescues.Why true liberty is about giving horses freedom to think while still providing structure.Whether you’re passionate about liberty training, interested in Icelandic horses, or simply want to hear inspiring stories of partnership between horses and people, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and heartfelt reflections. 👉 Tune in and discover why Patrick believes liberty is the foundation for all disciplines—and how it can transform the way we connect with our horses. Watch us on YouTube Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

    54 min
  7. 8: Gumundur "Mummi" Arnarsson - Trainer, Innovator, & Ástund Saddle Maker for the Icelandic Horse

    09/19/2025

    8: Gumundur "Mummi" Arnarsson - Trainer, Innovator, & Ástund Saddle Maker for the Icelandic Horse

    In Episode 8 of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Gumundur “Mummi” Arnarsson—renowned Icelandic horse trainer, riding teacher, and founder of Ástund Saddles. Mummi shares his journey from growing up in the stables of Reykjavík to building one of the most respected saddle brands in the world. We dive deep into saddle design, saddle fit, and the balance between tradition and innovation in Icelandic horsemanship. From training young horses to protecting equine health through better tack, this conversation offers valuable insights for riders, trainers, and equestrian entrepreneurs alike. (Apologies for the audio as the Microphones had died after recording Episode 7) Watch it on YouTube Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

    55 min
  8. 7: Meet Guðmar - Taking Icelandic Horses Worldwide: Hestaland Treks + Why Trainers Should Travel

    09/12/2025

    7: Meet Guðmar - Taking Icelandic Horses Worldwide: Hestaland Treks + Why Trainers Should Travel

    In this episode of The Fifth Gait Podcast, we sit down with Gudmar Petursson—renowned Icelandic horse trainer, educator, and founder of Hestaland in West Iceland. Gudmar shares his journey from being a young competitive rider in Iceland to building a career in the United States, where he helped introduce the Icelandic horse to a wider audience. We explore his insights on the differences between U.S. and Icelandic horsemanship, the challenges of promoting a unique breed abroad, and the lessons learned from his legendary stallion. Gudmar also dives into the deeper value of trekking across Iceland—how it transforms riders, strengthens the horse-human connection, and reconnects people with nature. Whether you’re passionate about Icelandic horses, curious about cross-cultural horsemanship, or interested in the future of equestrian practice, this episode offers a rare perspective from one of the most influential voices in the Icelandic horse world. 🎧 Listen now to discover: The biggest strengths and weaknesses of U.S. vs. Icelandic horsemanship How Icelandic horses went from “aliens” in America to a recognized breed The role of trekking in shaping better riders and deeper horse partnerships Gudmar’s philosophy on horsemanship, tradition, and innovation Watch us on YouTube Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook

    53 min
See All (14)

5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Fifth Gait Podcast: We ( Carrie Hill & Mackenzie Durbin ) have thrown around the idea of a podcast for years - but we finally made it happen, stuck in the truck together on a 10-hour road trip home from a horse show. Our passion is the Icelandic horse - and all aspects of the worldwide community that surrounds this breed. Here, we come together as equestrian professionals to share our hardest lessons, biggest wins and our future hopes in Icelandic horsemanship. Our conversations aim to educate, inspire and grow all people like us, who love Icelandic horses - from enthusiasts and amateurs, to trainers, competitors and field specialists. Our topics cover all things care practices, training systems, Icelandic horse history, sport competition, breeding and much more. Join us! On The Fifth Gait Podcast Watch Us On YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheFifthGaitPodcast Follow Us On Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/fifthgaitpodcast

Information

  • Creator
    Mackenzie Durbin & Carrie Hill
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mackenzie Durbin 2025
  • Show Website
    The Fifth Gait Podcast

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