The Wild Initiative

Ep 247 - Charles Spiegel: A Target Rich Environment

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Charles Spiegel, co-owner and co-host of Target Rich Environment TV, Helihunter, and Three Curl Outfitters, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to delve into the world of feral hogs, their origin, and the imperative need to control their population. Charles provides insights into the rise of these non-native hogs in Texas, from their domestication to their transition into the wild, revealing how the constant population increase and the ensuing havoc on farms and ranches led them to become the world's largest hog-hunting outfitter in the state. With a resolute declaration, he states, “We got started out of necessity, not necessarily a business.”

This episode uncovers the adaptability, intelligence, and astonishing reproductive speed of feral hogs, underscoring the looming threat they pose in terms of disease and parasites. Charles dissects their negative impact on native habitats and wildlife, where the pigs' voracious appetites and aggressive behavior wreak havoc on ecosystems. The conversation takes a thrilling turn as Charles guides Sam through a helicopter hunting experience, painting vivid images of Led Zeppelin blasting in the background and pigs being dispatched from the helicopter's vantage point.

As the discussion unravels, Charles unveils the dynamic world of hunting these creatures. The conversation touches on the intricate dynamics of eradicating 70% of the population to maintain equilibrium, the intricacies of heli-hunting, and the incorporation of military tactics and Led Zeppelin to maximize hunting efficiency. The popularity of hog hunting in Texas as both a business and recreational activity is revealed, with helicopters and thermal optics employed to cull these invasive creatures, making this episode an exhilarating peek into the high-speed world of aerial pig eradication.

Join Charles and the team on Target Rich Environment TV as they conquer the daunting task of curbing the hog population, all while weaving together the adventure and conservation narrative that encapsulates this captivating tale.

Guest Info

Charles Spiegel & Three Curl Outfitters

Target Rich Environment TV

Heli Hunter

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Ep 246 - Lilian Mremi: Misconceptions of Hunting in Africa

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Lilian Mremi, a native and game scout of The Rungwa Game Reserve, Tanzania, Africa, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to provide a unique perspective as a professional African game scout. She shares how her journey into this role began, inspired by her uncle's occupation as a wildlife commander. In this podcast, Lilian and Sam discuss the misconceptions surrounding hunting in Africa, shedding light on the closely regulated nature of these hunts, overseen by biologists and researchers with rules and quotas. Lilian emphasizes how hunting, when managed properly, benefits both wildlife and local communities in Africa, countering notions of overpopulation leading to habitat destruction and crop and livestock damage. "If there is overpopulation, there becomes a lack of food and in turn destruction to the habitat as well as the community crops and livestock."

Lilian delves into the creative methods employed by local communities to deter animals from encroaching on human settlements, including strategies like hanging dried chili and using beehives. These techniques not only prevent conflict but also offer additional benefits, such as honey harvesting. She highlights the reduction of poaching in Africa and the efforts to renew elephant populations through regulated hunting, emphasizing that this practice contributes positively to both wildlife and local communities.

Hunting outfitters, contrary to misconceptions, greatly assist local communities by providing essential resources such as schools, roads, water, and employment. Lilian encourages those unfamiliar with African hunting practices to come and witness the process firsthand, inviting listeners to view the impact and benefits of hunting in Africa for themselves. "I encourage people to come and view the process for themselves." She concludes with a heartwarming lesson in Swahili, "Asante Sana," expressing gratitude and underscoring the importance of understanding different perspectives.

Understanding the multifaceted perspective presented by Lilian sheds light on the intricate relationship between hunting, conservation, and community support in Africa, dispelling stereotypes and misconceptions while fostering a deeper appreciation for the region's unique approach to wildlife management.

Guest Info

Lilian Mremi

---

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Ep 245 - Capt. Zachariah Rollins: Outdoors, Fishing, and “The Captain Life”

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Captain Zachariah Rollins, host of Along the Keel, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to dive deep into his world of offshore fishing and the captivating life of a captain. With a family history rooted in generations of sou’wester-wearing longliners off the Rhode Island coast, Zach's journey into the realm of fishing commenced at the tender age of 10. In this episode, Zach and Sam navigate through the captivating waters of different saltwater fishing styles, unearthing Zach's voyage to becoming a captain, and delving into the crucial thread of preserving fishing and hunting resources, a legacy tracing back to Teddy Roosevelt, the pioneering architect of modern conservation.

Amid their engaging discourse, Zach and Sam lead a voyage through superstitions that steer clear of bananas and whistle-free boats. As the conversation meanders, the duo reminisces about everything from Zach's formative years as a fisherman, encountering colossal 20-foot manta rays in Hawaiian waters, to the unique tapestry of creating his acclaimed podcast, “Along the Keel.”

The captivating tale unfolds as Captain Zachariah Rollins shares his enchanting encounters with whales and dolphins, interlaced with reflections on leadership, embarking on outdoor escapades, and persistently pursuing passions. Anchored within their dialogue is a profound appreciation for the maritime world, a sentiment carried by their shared understanding that the ocean’s power can be harnessed to shape lives and impact communities.

In a world brimming with challenges and opportunities, Zach's narrative unveils the relentless spirit that has guided him. With each narrative arc, he illuminates the threads that interweave his journey, inviting listeners to join the crew in savoring the grandeur of the oceans, the allure of the outdoors, and the enduring camaraderie found on land and sea alike.

If you're yearning to explore the open waters, resonate with the legacy of hunters and anglers, and bask in the wisdom of a seasoned captain, this episode is your compass to traverse a world where the horizon stretches as far as the heart's desire.

Guest Info

Zach Rollins

Along the Keel

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Ep 244 - Sue Tidwell: Cries of the Savanna

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Sue Tidwell, author of Cries of the Savanna, embarks on a riveting journey with Sam on The Wild Initiative to share her profound love for hunting and conservation in the heart of Africa. Sue's story unfolds against the backdrop of a childhood in a hunting family, but her personal hunting adventures didn't kick off until she met her husband in the untamed wilderness of Alaska.

Yet, it was a trip to Tanzania, Africa, driven by her husband's dream, where Sue's perspective on hunting underwent a transformative shift. Initially resistant to targeting specific African species, Sue's real-life encounter with Africa and its unique hunting landscape profoundly changed her outlook. In this episode, she passionately articulates why hunting and trophy fees play a pivotal role in supporting African communities and conservation efforts.

As Sue guides us through her adventure, we are introduced to the remarkable individuals she encounters, including a 23-year-old female game scout, Lilian Mremi. These encounters provide invaluable lessons and forge deep connections that underscore the interconnectedness of hunting, conservation, and the people of Africa.

The discussion delves into the heart of Sue's book, Cries of the Savanna, a work that masterfully blends engaging stories with compelling facts to emphasize the pivotal role of well-managed hunting in preserving habitats and wildlife. Sue passionately underscores the need for an emotional connection to convey the importance of hunting in conservation. Cries of the Savanna encapsulates this emotional journey, inviting readers to fall in love with Africa and become advocates for its unique hunting heritage.

The episode's narrative continues with the challenges of hunting in Africa, including quests for buffalo, zebra, and guinea fowl, including a thrilling narrative about her husband's Cape Buffalo "Dagga Boy" hunt. Sue offers vivid insights into the tactics and nuances of African hunting, illustrating the thrill and difficulty of tracking elusive game across the savanna. Sue also touches on the cost of hunting in Africa, providing valuable perspectives on budgeting and the temptation to pursue additional game once on the continent. She shares experiences of forming deep bonds with locals, encountering venomous snakes, and the importance of secure, zippered tents to keep out unwelcome wildlife.

The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Sue highlights the multifaceted benefits of hunting camps in Tanzania, where jobs are created, wildlife is protected, and poaching is deterred. These camps play a pivotal role in fostering coexistence between communities and wildlife, ultimately safeguarding precious habitats.

Throughout the episode, Sue underscores the importance of understanding the significance of hunting in Africa. She emphasizes the need to respect local rules and regulations and the scarcity of meat in the daily diets of African communities. Sue's account of her African experiences provides a profound contrast to the convenience of obtaining meat in North America. As Sue aptly puts it, "No meat goes to waste in Africa."

In this episode, Sue's compelling narrative paints a vivid picture of Africa's wild heart, the essential role of hunting in its conservation, and the profound connection between people and the land. Join us on this remarkable journey and discover why Cries of the Savanna is a must-read for anyone curious about the wild world of hunting and conservation in Africa.

Guest Info

Sue Tidwell

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Ep 243 - Dan Cabela: The Impacts of Hunting & Conservation

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Dan Cabela, executive director of the Cabela Family Foundation, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to explore the profound connection between hunting and conservation. Growing up immersed in hunting and outdoor activities, Dan shares his journey from small game hunting to his passionate love for hunting in Africa. He delves into the critical role hunting plays in preserving wildlife and habitats, emphasizing the importance of maintaining lion habitat to prevent human-wildlife conflicts.

Dan's experiences in the wild, from capturing black bears in Arkansas to collecting alligator eggs, underscore the impact of hunting on conservation. He highlights the Cabela Family Foundation's efforts to reintroduce lions to the Zambezi Delta in Mozambique, showcasing how hunting and conservation go hand in hand.

Through his engaging storytelling, Dan emphasizes the significance of hunting as a social and cultural activity that unites families across generations. He discusses the evolving narrative in hunting media, moving beyond kill shots to share the complete hunting experience, including the struggles and communal aspects.

Dan passionately advocates for the invaluable connection between hunting, conservation, and outdoor initiatives. He encourages listeners to get involved, join conservation organizations, and actively participate in local chapters to make a direct impact on wildlife preservation. Dan's dedication to preserving our natural heritage and fostering an understanding of hunting's vital role shines through in this insightful podcast episode. Don't miss his exciting upcoming TV series, "The Hard Truths of Conservation," set to debut on August 20th. Engage with this inspiring conversation, and discover the transformative power of hunting in conservation efforts.

Guest Info

Dan Cabela

Cabela Family Foundation

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Ep 242 - Britné Prosser: Spring Bear Successes

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Britné Prosser, friend and long-time supporter of the podcast, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative in an engaging conversation about her journey as a female hunter, a newcomer to the world of hunting, and a mom who balances her love for the outdoors with family life. Britné shares her initial inspiration for hunting and recalls her first hunting experiences with her family. She candidly discusses how social media, specifically Instagram, played a pivotal role in connecting her with like-minded hunters and encouraging her to explore the world of hunting.

Britné delves into her early doubts and fears about hunting, revealing that she once considered becoming a vegan due to the negative perceptions surrounding hunting on social media. However, after finding inspiration from prominent figures like Cameron Haynes and Joe Rogan, she decided to take the plunge into hunting, which has since become an integral part of her life.

As the discussion unfolds, Britné emphasizes the importance of continual learning in the hunting world. She describes how she draws knowledge from various sources, including reading, hands-on experiences, and following inspirational hunters on Instagram, all while surrounding herself with down-to-earth mentors. She also reveals her admiration for female hunters who expertly balance family life with their passion for hunting.

The conversation takes an exciting turn as Britné shares her triumphant spring bear hunting experience in Idaho. Despite initial nerves and doubts, Britné successfully harvested her first bear. She vividly describes the challenges and excitement of the hunt, highlighting the unique sounds and emotions she experienced during the process. Britné shares a humorous story about getting a memorable nickname while skinning a bear, emphasizing the camaraderie and humor that can be found in the hunting community.

Britné expresses her deep gratitude for the support and assistance she received from her partner and family, emphasizing that her success was made possible through the investment of time, energy, and knowledge from others. She fondly recalls the taste of bear meat, particularly the summer sausage, and shares the challenges of tracking bears through dense brush.

In a heartwarming moment, Britné talks about her children's curiosity and interest in trying different types of meat, with her youngest child particularly enjoying it. She shares her own positive experience with bear meat, noting its delicious, melt-in-your-mouth texture, especially when dipped in melted butter.

Britné's journey as a hunter, newcomer, and mom is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of perseverance, learning, and connecting with nature. This episode is a delightful blend of personal experiences, hunting achievements, and the deep sense of community found in the world of hunting.

Guest Info

Britné Prosser

@unbound.wanderer

Unbound Wanderer Pyrography

@unbound.wanderer.pyrography

—

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Ep 241 - Paul “ElkNut” Medel: Sounds and Strategies for Calling in Every Elk

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 21:34:00 -0000

Paul “the ElkNut” Medel joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to unlock the secrets of successful elk hunting through expert calling techniques and a deep understanding of elk behavior. In this episode, Medel emphasizes that elk hunting is not just about making sounds; it's about comprehending the nuanced language of elk and knowing when and where to communicate effectively. He shares invaluable insights, stressing the importance of research and practice before heading into the field, and he provides real-world examples of his favorite calling routines.

Medel delves into the significance of timing, the emotional nuances of elk sounds, and the situational awareness required for a successful hunt. He discusses the art of imitating dominant herd bulls to attract other bulls and explains how to differentiate between the needs of mature and younger elk. With Paul’s wisdom, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of elk calling strategies, from cow party sequences to displaying and advertising sequences, all designed to provoke responses from these incredible animals.

Additionally, Paul Medel teases an exciting update to the ElkNut app, which promises to revolutionize the way hunters approach elk calling. To top it off, there's a thrilling giveaway for three lucky podcast listeners who stand a chance to win yearly subscriptions to this game-changing app. Whether you're a seasoned elk hunter or just starting your journey, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and a chance to enhance your hunting skills.

Guest Info

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 240 - Travis McClendon: Maximizing Your Hunt

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Travis McClendon of The Guide Life, Zero Guide Fees, Arizona Strip Guides, and Arizona Elk Outfitters joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to dive deep into the world of hunting in the American West. Travis shares his profound insights on leadership in hunting and how vegetarianism impacts wildlife. He passionately emphasizes the crucial role of proper gear and delves into his exciting collaboration with videographer Mike Attebery on their show "GuideLife."

Travis also takes a reflective journey through his family's hunting legacy and how technology has revolutionized the art of video editing. He places a significant emphasis on the paramount importance of fitness in hunting, especially in Arizona, and generously offers priceless insights into the state's wonderfully diverse hunting opportunities. Travis engages in a captivating discussion about the shifting behavior of elk during the rut and eloquently contrasts the behaviors of mountain and desert mule deer. Tune in for a treasure trove of practical tips, from honing your spotting and stalking skills to elevating your shooting proficiency and embracing the challenges of real-life hunting scenarios.

Discover the magic of Arizona's distinctive hunting experiences and gain a deep understanding of the state's innovative regulations designed for non-resident hunters. Travis provides invaluable insights into hunting application systems and the paramount importance of transparency among fellow hunters. And as if that's not enough, Travis unveils the game-changing Zero Guide Fees membership, a transformative initiative making hunting more accessible and affordable for everyone in the vast western states.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just embarking on this exhilarating journey, this episode is an invaluable resource for maximizing your hunting experience. Travis and Sam's engaging conversation encapsulates both the triumphs and tribulations of hunting in the wild, all while painting a vivid picture of a future where they may be old and gray, yet still passionately hunting the mountains. "I try to stay fit, so when I'm 74, I'm still gonna be out there with the bow, with the rifle... that's more important to me than anything."

Guest Info

Travis McClendon

Zero Guide Fees

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 239 - Robby Denning: Hunting Big Mule Deer

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 16:03:00 -0000

Robby Denning, co-founder of Rokslide and author of Hunting Big Mule Deer, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for a deep dive into the world of hunting these magnificent creatures. They kick off with an extensive book recommendation session, highlighting essential reads for aspiring mule deer hunters.

As the conversation unfolds, Robby highlights the unique challenges and opportunities presented by hunting big mule deer. He discusses the conservation efforts in Colorado and Wyoming that have positively impacted mule deer populations, emphasizing the importance of supporting local chapters and conservation initiatives. Robby delves into the mindset required for hunting success, stressing the mental resilience needed in the field. He shares his personal journey of shifting his focus from elk hunting to mule deer hunting, describing the fulfillment he finds in pursuing these elusive animals.

The discussion turns to the specific techniques and strategies for hunting big mule deer, including glassing, tracking, still hunting, and spot-and-stalk. Robby's insights draw from his book Hunting Big Mule Deer, and he underscores the need for continuous learning and refinement of hunting approaches. The conversation wraps up with a focus on conservation and wildlife management. Robby applauds Wyoming's efforts to protect mule deer migration corridors and highlights the significance of road safety for wildlife. He encourages hunters to get involved in local chapters and support fish and game organizations.

If you're passionate about mule deer hunting or eager to improve your hunting skills, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and insights.

Guest Info

Robby Denning

Rokslide

Mentioned in this Episode

Hunting Big Mule Deer: How to Take the Best Buck of Your Life by Robby Denning
Endure: How to Work Hard, Outlast and Keep Hammering by Cameron Hanes
Hunting Open Country Mule Deer: A Guide for Taking Western Bucks with a Rifle and Bow by Dwight Schuh
How to Find Giant Bucks by Kirt Darner
Mule Deer Quest: Thirty-Five Years of Observation and Hunting Mule Deer from Sonora to Saskatchewan by Walt Prothero
Stalking Trophy Mule Deer by Walt Prothero
Mule Deer Strategies: A Handbook of Hunting Techniques by Walt Prothero
Dennis Wintch: Mule Deer Hunting Legend: 50 Years of Hunting Mule Deer by Lindsay Parker
So You Want To Hunt The West For Mule Deer: Now What by Dan Branagan
Public Land Mulies: The Bottom Line by David W. Long
The Edge - The Complete Approach to Hunting Mountain Mule Deer by David Long & Mike Duplan
Super Slam: Adventures with North American Big Game by Chuck Adams
The Complete Book of Bowhunting by Chuck Adams

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Ep 238 - Corey Child: The Best Hunter on TikTok

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 15:52:00 -0000

Corey Child, a.k.a. "The Best Hunter on TikTok," joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for an eye-opening conversation about the essence of authentic hunting and the challenges hunters face in the world of social media. In this episode, Corey candidly addresses the misconceptions surrounding hunting, emphasizing the critical difference between genuine hunting experiences and merely pulling the trigger.

The discussion kicks off with Corey's perspective on the skills and dedication required for hunting, drawing connections between hunting and social issues like pro-abortion stances. Corey, known for his TikTok fame, delves into his unexpected rise on the platform, where he's celebrated for his shed and elk-hunting prowess. He reflects on the TikTok environment and how it has both bolstered his recognition and brought about unique challenges, including confronting biases against hunters.

The conversation turns to the controversial topic of pen-raised deer on wealthy ranches, with Corey expressing a preference for hunting in the wild rather than on high-fence properties. He passionately discusses the nuances of real hunting; it's about being immersed in the experience and embracing the unpredictability of the hunt rather than contrived narratives. As Corey says, "Don't try to tell me you hunt if you just paid; there's a difference between hunting and pulling a trigger."

Corey also shares insights into his experiences with hunting elk, recounting exhilarating moments and close encounters. The thrill of hearing an elk bugle in the wild, he explains, is an experience that transcends words and defines the essence of hunting.

The podcast takes a deeper dive into the importance of securing support for hunting and conservation efforts. Corey emphasizes the need for mentorship to kindle a passion for hunting in younger generations and advocates for respectful conversations on social media platforms to combat biases against hunters.

Throughout the episode, Corey's passion for hunting shines through as he offers guidance to beginners, highlights the value of studying hunting videos, and reinforces the significance of authenticity in hunting media. Tune in to this insightful episode as Corey and Sam navigate the complex world of hunting, social media, and the enduring quest for authentic outdoor experiences.

Guest Info

Corey Child

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Ep 237 - Ryan Carter: This is Murder and I’m Part of It

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Ryan Carter of DC Outfitters returns to The Wild Initiative podcast, joining Sam in a candid conversation about trophy-hunting giant elk and the intricacies of hunting ethics and conservation. Despite a minor recording mishap, the discussion unfolds to reveal Ryan's deep insights into elk behavior during different seasons, and why, contrary to conventional wisdom, he prefers not to hunt trophy elk during the rut.

The conversation delves into the critical role of educated advocacy for hunting's defense, touching on memorable guide trips and the often cutthroat nature of the hunting industry, where success is sometimes overshadowed by negativity and jealousy.

Ryan highlights the importance of regulating hunting and technology while expressing concerns about mismanagement, including regulations influenced by public opinion rather than scientific principles. As he boldly questions, "Since when does conservation address issues based on feelings and social matters rather than f#$king science?!" This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of hunting ethics, conservation, and the evolving landscape of hunting practices.

Guest Info

Ryan Carter

Mentioned in this Episode

The “Freak” Giant Bull Elk

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Ep 236 - Brandon Bair: Keep the Joy in the Journey

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Brandon Bair, former NFL player and co-founder of Rokman, shares his remarkable journey from the gridiron to the great outdoors in this episode of The Wild Initiative with Sam. Brandon's story is a testament to the transformative power of hunting and the joy it can bring to families.

Growing up on a ranch, Brandon's life was intimately connected with the land. He learned the value of hard work, the savagery of wild animals, and the importance of providing for his family from an early age. This strong foundation in the outdoors stayed with him, even as he pursued a successful career in college football at the University of Oregon and later in the NFL.

After retiring from professional football, Brandon rediscovered his passion for hunting and the outdoors. What's truly heartwarming is that he's passed this love down to his family, including his 12-year-old daughter, who has already bagged a bear and a deer. In a world where family members may not always share the same interests, Brandon's experience highlights the importance of inspiring others with our passions and experiences, without ever forcing or pushing them.

Brandon's story also touches on the life skills hunting imparts, such as resilience, patience, and mental toughness, and the potential of hunting to address food-related issues. He emphasizes the need to respect the sacrifice animals make for our survival and suggests that if more people raised or hunted for their own food, many problems related to the meat industry, obesity, and carbon footprint could be mitigated.

The conversation dives into the migration of people from cities to rural areas, driven by a newfound appreciation for the importance of truck drivers in delivering food. Brandon's own journey from bustling city life to a quieter rural existence in Idaho serves as a testament to this shift.

Throughout the episode, the importance of welcoming those who want to live a better life in nature is highlighted. It's a reminder that the great outdoors has a transformative effect, offering solace and inspiration to those who seek it.

Additionally, Brandon talks about his venture, Rokman, and the innovative modular waterproof pack system they've designed for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts. This system has been well-received for its unique features, including its waterproof design and versatility.

In closing, Brandon encourages listeners to step into the world of hunting, even if they're intimidated by the gear or lack experience. His message is simple: "Just do it, just go give it a shot." With this episode, Brandon Bair inspires us all to keep the joy in our journey and share our passions with those we love.

Guest Info

Rokman

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Ep 235 - Fred Eichler: Down the Hunting “Rabbit Hole”

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 19:16:00 -0000

Fred Eichler, the most interesting bowhunter in the world and owner of Full Draw Outfitters, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss how deep hunting can take you. Sam and Fred delve into the heart of hunting as a lifestyle choice, one that connects individuals with the outdoors, fosters a sense of self-sufficiency and provides unforgettable adventures.

Fred shares his intense hunting experiences, from shooting coyotes from a helicopter to enduring physically demanding hunts. These adventures, fueled by a passion ignited by his father and inspired by legendary figure Fred Bear, have shaped his perspective on hunting.

In a world filled with distractions, Fred emphasizes the importance of engaging in outdoor activities like hunting to escape technology's grasp. He speaks of the need for unity among hunters, regardless of their preferred hunting methods, and advocates for the support of all forms of hunting to preserve the sport's traditions. Fred's passionate advocacy for hunting's preservation echoes throughout the episode, reminding us that, as he puts it, "If we don't support it all... if we don't fight for it all, we're going to be in big trouble."

Fred also highlights the significance of firsthand experience in understanding hunting's positive impact on wildlife management and conservation efforts. He encourages people to try hunting before forming opinions and emphasizes the importance of education in promoting the benefits of hunting.

The episode explores Fred's remarkable achievement of hunting all 29 North American big game animals with a trad bow, the North American Super Slam, a journey marked by challenges, resourcefulness, and determination. Fred's stories inspire listeners to embark on their own hunting adventures, emphasizing that it doesn't require significant financial resources but rather a determination and a willingness to explore public lands.

Tune in to this episode of The Wild Initiative to discover the profound world of hunting, the beauty of nature, and the importance of unity in preserving outdoor traditions.

Guest Info

Fred Eichler/Full Draw Outfitters

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 234 - Abby Casey: Airguns - Not Your Kid’s Airsoft Rifle

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 16:31:00 -0000

Abby Casey, avid airgunner and hunter, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to shed light on the fascinating world of airguns. Abby extends a warm invitation to everyone, regardless of their appearance or gender, to embrace the burgeoning air gun industry, underlining its inclusivity.

Having transitioned from behind-the-scenes roles to becoming an on-camera host, Abby recounts her journey into the heart of airgunning, which took flight after her move to Wyoming. She dispels the common misconception that airguns are akin to BB guns or airsoft pistols, revealing their high-powered nature and impressive capabilities. As Abbey emphasizes, "Nine out of ten times, people who initially criticize airguns change their minds after experiencing the fun and excitement at the shooting range."

Airguns, Abby emphasizes, have witnessed a surge in popularity due to their accessibility and versatility. From various competitions to the opportunity to practice shooting without live ammunition, airguns offer an array of options. Larger air guns even find their place in hunting and competitive shooting, requiring a substantial air reservoir.

These versatile airguns, comparable to bow hunting or muzzleloader hunting, are highly effective for close-range game hunting. They also serve as an excellent entry point for young shooters, potentially opening doors to scholarships and advanced shooting skills.

Abby touches upon the diminishing presence of firearm safety education in schools, resulting in increased fear and misunderstanding surrounding firearms. She, alongside her listeners, strives to educate kids about guns, despite societal pressures. Abby candidly shares her struggles in gaining traction for her air gun content on TikTok, but with a recent development on YouTube regarding hunting content, there's newfound hope.

Navigating the terrain of online presence, Abby outlines her plans to create more YouTube content, extending a helping hand to those interested in hunting or shooting with airguns. Her advice is clear: start at a range with affordable products and seek guidance to build confidence.

Guest Info

Abby Casey

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Ep 233 - Brian “Gritty” Call: Success Begets Success

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Brian Call, the host of the Gritty podcast, teams up with Sam on The Wild Initiative to delve into the secrets of success and motivation. Sharing their intertwined experiences, Sam and Brian explore the fascinating concept that success tends to breed more success, especially in the world of hunting. They reflect on the origins of their podcasting journeys, fueled by a burning desire to both learn from and inspire others. Brian offers insights into the unique challenges and rewards of bear hunting, shedding light on why this pursuit holds a special place in the hearts of hunters. Tune in to gain wisdom from Brian's remarkable determination, resilience, and expertise in the realm of hunting, and discover how success can be a powerful motivator to achieve the seemingly impossible.

Guest Info

Brian Call

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 232 - “Just” Samson: Hunting Stories and Lessons Learned

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0000

"Just" Samson, a returning guest and one of the earliest participants in The Wild Initiative podcast, reunites with Sam to dive deep into the world of hunting over the past five years. With a wealth of hunting experiences to draw from, Samson and Sam share their tales of successes and failures in the wild. They reminisce about their favorite hunting stories, touching on unconventional methods like hunting ducks with AK-47s and decapitating grouse with a side-by-side.

They explore the profound lessons that hunting imparts, emphasizing the importance of teaching the youth about the circle of life through hunting and the values it instills. The discussion veers toward culinary pleasures, with a shared love for wild game tongues and hearts. They recount memorable moments, from calling in coyotes to pursuing elusive elk, highlighting the thrill of the chase and the deep connection to nature that hunting offers.

The conversation also delves into the future of hunting, with Samson's dedication to ensuring hunting rights for his children. They acknowledge the diverse paths people take to embrace hunting, emphasizing the uniqueness of each hunter's journey. Samson's early exposure to animal dispatch for sustenance left an indelible mark, and he shares how his son, despite growing up in a suburban environment, is enthusiastic about hunting and has actively participated in skinning animals and savoring their hearts.

As they wrap up, they touch on the importance of improving the "marketing" for hunting and educating non-hunters about the realities of the sport, fostering a greater understanding of its role in conservation and the circle of life.

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 231 - “Big” Al Morris: Everything You Need to Know About Coyote Hunting

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

"Big" Al Morris, the seasoned coyote hunting expert from FoxPro, reunites with Sam on The Wild Initiative for an illuminating and comprehensive discussion centered around the art of coyote hunting. This episode delves deep into the world of predator hunting, offering a treasure trove of insights for both novice and experienced hunters.

Kicking things off, Al and Sam explore how predator hunting, particularly coyote hunting, serves as a fantastic entry point into the broader hunting realm. They emphasize its unique attributes, including its low cost and accessibility, which make it an attractive option for newcomers. Al underscores that predator hunting often requires only a basic hunting license in most states, making it an accessible and budget-friendly introduction to hunting.

Gear is a fundamental aspect of any hunting endeavor, and Al guides listeners through the essential equipment needed to embark on a successful coyote hunting adventure. From firearms to calls, he provides valuable recommendations for those looking to get started.

The heart of this episode lies in the wealth of tactical wisdom Al shares. He and Sam dissect the finer points of coyote hunting, addressing critical factors such as the optimal times and setups for your hunting stands. Al's expertise shines through as he provides detailed insights into stand duration, calling strategies, and even the effective use of decoys. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to strategically approach coyote hunting, increasing their chances of success.

But that's not all; the episode delves into the intriguing world of decoy doggin'. Al offers a deep dive into this specialized form of hunting, covering fundamental techniques and the choice of dog breeds suited for this pursuit. His anecdotes and advice provide a fascinating glimpse into this lesser-known facet of predator hunting.

However, it's not all smooth sailing in the world of predator hunting. The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as Sam and Al discuss the challenges faced by predator hunters from anti-hunting groups. They address the controversies surrounding predator hunting, particularly coyote hunting, and underscore the importance of defending this essential aspect of wildlife management. Al passionately emphasizes that "there wouldn't be any North American wildlife left if it wasn't for predator hunters," highlighting the critical role they play in preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to refine your tactics or a newcomer eager to embark on your first coyote hunting adventure, the wisdom shared by "Big" Al Morris and Sam in this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Guest Info

"Big" Al Morris

FOXPRO

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Ep 230 - Johnny Mack: Spring Bear Tips & Tactics

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Johnny Mack of The Soulful Hunter Podcast and Washington Backcountry joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for an inspiring episode packed with valuable insights into spring bear hunting. Johnny begins by sharing his wealth of knowledge on the subject, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and conservation in the world of hunting.

The conversation kicks off with Johnny imparting his tips and tactics for successful spring bear hunting. He stresses the significance of being well-prepared and simplifying the process while taking a leadership role in conservation efforts. Johnny's approach is all about investing time in others, ensuring the legacy of hunting is passed on to future generations.

As the discussion unfolds, the hosts delve into their experiences and encounters while hunting with friends, shedding light on the realities of not always getting along with everyone. They emphasize the value of focusing their time on individuals who are genuinely interested in learning and preserving the hunting tradition.

Johnny shares his transition from backpacking to bear hunting, recounting the excitement and inspiration that come with harvesting your first animal. Their adventures take them on a nine-mile hike to set up camp and hunt for black bears, recruiting two other new hunters to join them in their quest. Despite some initial interruptions by hikers and their dogs, the group eventually crosses paths with a bear, leading to an exhilarating encounter.

The episode underscores the importance of utilizing all available resources, including non-traditional ones, to maximize success in bear hunting. It encourages listeners to leverage hiker reports and online resources to discover prime hunting spots, connect with fellow hunters, and gather crucial information for their expeditions. Building relationships with landowners, game wardens, and biologists is highlighted as a key factor in securing access to private lands and gaining valuable insights into the hunting environment.

Spring bear hunting tips are thoroughly covered, from scouting for south-facing slopes with early snowmelt and fresh sprouts to understanding bear behavior during this season. Johnny emphasizes the opportunities for scouting and hunting in the spring, making it an ideal time for beginners to embark on their own bear-hunting journey.

The conversation further delves into the world of long-range shooting, the importance of knowing your gear, and the value of connecting with local experts for guidance. Johnny and Sam share their insights on predator calling as a last-ditch option and the importance of being patient and observant while hunting bears.

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts offer advice for beginners feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of bear hunting. They encourage individuals to explore their own interests, start with simpler activities, and prioritize safety and mentorship.

Guest Info

Soulful Hunter Podcast

Washington Backcountry

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Ep 229 - Rachelle Schrute: Beer, Pretzels and Conservation

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 18:18:00 -0000

Rachelle Schrute, an avid hunter, conservationist, and staunch advocate for public lands, sits down with Sam on The Wild Initiative for an engaging conversation about the thrill of hunting and its vital connection to conservation. Rachelle shares her profound experiences, from getting within "licking distance" of screaming elk during hunts to her passionate journey into conservation and land access, spurred by the controversial issue of corner crossing in Montana.

But Rachelle's dedication to preserving our natural heritage hasn't come without its challenges. She reveals the shocking reality of receiving hundreds of death threats a day from within the hunting community as she became a lightning rod for debates as “the poster child for everything that’s wrong with conservation.” Her response? “If you’re going to say that I’m doing it wrong, then maybe you should step up and do it the way you think is right.”... “if it all goes to hell, tough s#%t.”

This episode also delves into the ever-evolving "purity index" within the landscape of hunting on social media and the importance of ethical hunters sharing their experiences to counteract negative portrayals. Rachelle reminds us, “If ethical hunters stop sharing what we do, then all you’re left with is the douchebags sharing it, and that becomes what people see as hunting.”... “If there are no visuals of what ethical, responsible hunting is, they will represent us all by default.”

Ultimately, this conversation with Rachelle Schrute highlights the transformative power of hunting and the need for hunters to actively engage in conservation efforts and education to ensure a sustainable future for both the sport and the natural world. Join Sam and Rachelle as they navigate the thrilling world of hunting and conservation advocacy.

Guest Info

Rachelle Schrute

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 228 - Mark Livesay: Elk Scouting Strategies

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 04:13:00 -0000

Mark Livesay of Treeline Pursuits joins Sam again on The Wild Initiative to further discuss the world of elk scouting and the powerful tools and strategies that lead to success. In this episode, Mark shares his wealth of knowledge and experience, emphasizing that elk hunting is a dynamic blend of technology, strategy, and teamwork.

Mark begins by underlining the necessity of early preparation, stressing that success begins long before you set foot in the field. Just like a seasoned whitetail hunter who knows every tree on their 40 acres, understanding your hunting area is paramount. A detailed journal filled with notes and waypoints can drastically enhance your hunting experience. As Mark puts it, "A bull that's mature is not dumb; he's played this game, and you might have one chance."

Delving into the heart of elk behavior and movement, Mark unveils the importance of recognizing elk-finding features. Elk have distinct preferences when selecting a hunting area, from drainage and slope degree to food sources and water. Scouting involves playing the odds, focusing on locations where elk are more likely to be found, even if it goes against conventional wisdom.

Mark's expertise extends to the realm of technology. His passion project, Treeline Academy, offers invaluable resources like a two-hour tutorial on using third-party data files with Google Earth for scouting purposes. Technology, such as Google Earth, onX Maps, Gaia and Basemap have transformed elk scouting, making it easier for hunters to locate and track elk. However, Mark offers a word of caution: "No single hunting app does everything, so it's important to understand that each app has its strengths and weaknesses, and it's up to the hunter to determine which app is good enough for their needs."

Mark reminds us that, despite technological advancements, elk hunting success rates have remained relatively stagnant. He and Sam explore the benefits of having multiple hunt locations, seeking the highest concentration of elk-finding features, and harnessing all available tools to increase the odds of success.

In this episode, Mark Livesay unravels the art of elk scouting, offering a comprehensive guide to both beginners and seasoned hunters. Tune in to gain insights into this dynamic and challenging pursuit. And remember, you can get $20 OFF access to the Treeline Academy E-Scouting Masterclass with code TWI.

Guest Info

Mark Livesay/Treeline Academy

treelineacademy.net (Use code TWI for $20 OFF.)
@treeline_pursuits
facebook.com/treelinepursuits
youtube.com/@TreelineAcademy
mark@ultramasports.com

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Ep 227 - Trent Marsh: The Death of the Outdoor Generalist

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 05:56:00 -0000

Trent Marsh of Spypoint joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss the loss of the “outdoor generalist” and how that affects hunting. Trent and Sam discuss how more and more increasingly niche hunting interests have created severe issues when it comes to hunting advocacy. Trent emphasizes that experiencing more of hunting and the outdoors in different ways allows us to be more informed and more effective in our defense of hunting. As Trent says, “I would rather walk down the buffet and try a little bit of everything than go to an all-you-can-eat prime rib dinner and just be stuck on one.” They then go on to discuss the fast evolution of trail cams in recent history along with hunting technology in general and what defines the line of ethics when it comes to that technology.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/227.

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Ep 226 - Caleb Stillians: Rising Up

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 01:12:00 -0000

Caleb Stillians, Alaska hunting guide, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative at SHOT Show to discuss hunting and guiding in Alaska. Caleb breaks down some of the regulations of hunting in Alaska and what makes up his duties as a guide. He discusses some of his favorite animals to guide for including the majestic Dall Sheep and the perilous brown bear. Caleb goes on to tell his hair-raising brown bear encounter story and provides some of his best tips for hunters planning a trip to Alaska. When it comes to mission, Caleb tells us that he wants to inspire people to hustle, rise up and be better than they were yesterday.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/226.

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Ep 225 - John Stallone: Fighting the Ban on Predator Hunting

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000

John Stallone of Days in the Wild joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to alert listeners to a critical issue affecting predator hunting in Arizona and the whole of the United States. John and Sam discuss how, while hunting is often an individual sport, each person having their own niche, it’s critical that we lock arms to stand up against attacks from anti-hunting groups. They introduce the conservation group he’s been spearheading, HOWL for Wildlife which has been instrumental in stopping other attacks in the past. John informs us that the Humane Society is currently leveling an attack at predator hunting in Arizona and across the US and it’s critical that hunters submit their comments ASAP. John tells us that it doesn’t matter our political affiliation, if you have a love for wildlife, this is something you need to do.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/225.

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Ep 224 - Ryan Gill: Progressing to Primitive

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Ryan Gill of Hunt Primitive joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the ins and outs of primitive hunting as well as spilling some of his expert advice. After years of rifle hunting, shooting big deer, and just the same old deal every time, Ryan got into primitive hunting to challenge himself and consistently raise the bar. Through his passion for primitive hunting, he started “Hunt Primitive” to involve others and spread the same passion and knowledge. Although there are many misconceptions about primitive hunting, Ryan works hard to make sure all information is on the line. Some people consider it unethical to harvest deer using such an age-old method, but Ryan has repeatedly proven them wrong. He says it’s not specifically about ethics, it’s about efficiency. Because if you’re efficient in your shots, you’re ethical in your shots.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/224.

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Ep 223 - Raymond “Erik the Viking Raider” Rowe: Life Eats Life

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Raymond Rowe aka Erik of the Viking Raiders, WWE Superstar, hunter and homesteader joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about some of the highs and lows of being self-sustaining. Raymond and his wife Sarah live a raw and rugged life, hunting and producing their own food. While industries force animals into an unnatural pace of life, this family moves at the speed of the animal for a better end result. If you take care of the animal, they’ll take care of you. Raymond and Sam, discuss how posting a picture of an ethical kill lost Sarah thousands of followers and how the conversations regarding hunting on social media tend to devolve into a hateful bashing of anyone whose viewpoints don’t align. Raymond also talks about his first deer harvest and the highest of highs along with the lowest of lows he experienced from the beginning to the end of his hunt. A lot of people that hate or disagree with hunting and ranching don’t understand what all goes into it… at the end of the day, “life eats life.”

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/223.

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Ep 222 - Clint Walker: Selecting the “Right” Rifle

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Clint Walker, firearms aficionado and fellow Montanan, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss selecting your ideal hunting rifle. Clint goes over the importance of getting a “smart choice” rifle, which means choosing one that will get the job done, but also has ammo available, especially during times of scarcity. Clint talks about his time shooting in precision long-distance tournaments with the rifles he built. He then goes into his first hunting experience and how, even though he’s great at target shooting, it doesn’t always translate into a perfect shot on an animal. After his realization that he had no clue how to dress an animal, Clint turned to YouTube and the numerous helpful how-to videos available. He says you have to get out of your comfort zone and try new things to feel a rush you’ve never experienced. Later on Sam and Clint discuss long distance shooting on animals when you have so many things to factor in and how it’s crucial to be comfortable with your rifle or any weapon and the shot you plan to make.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/222.

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Ep 221 - Ryan Michler: Choose Your Problems

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Ryan Michler, host of the Order of Man podcast and author of Sovereignty, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to dive into difficult life decisions that result in making us better people. Ryan says life is a series of trade-offs. While circumstances may differ for everyone, we can always challenge ourselves and work hard to get to where we want to be in life. They talk about how past all the excuses, investing your time, investing in yourself, and making sacrifices will help you grow as an individual. Later, Ryan and Sam discuss how hunting requires a lot of hard work, especially through the preparation, knowledge, skill, and practice required for success. Hunting teaches patience and perseverance that both guys agree have helped them become better people. They also discuss Ryan’s mastermind extension of Order of Man, The Iron Council, where ambitious and motivated men connect and work to improve 4 key areas of their lives.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/221

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Ep 220 - Lt. John Nores: The Hidden War in the Wild

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Lt. John Nores, retired CDFW game warden, recipient of the California Governor’s Medal of Valor and author of Hidden War and War in the Woods, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss the largely unknown battle for our public lands against the drug cartels. John and Sam discuss the issues that hunters and conservationists face coming up against anti-hunting activist groups, such as mountain lion management and get into some of what differentiates a game warden from a park ranger. John also looks back on his unique journey to becoming a game warden and how his time working in rough areas of Southern California directed his career path towards special operations. John and Sam then dig into the difference between legal and illegal grows, the destructive effect illegal grow operations have on wildlife and habitat areas and the extreme level of crime associated with those illegal grows due to cartel involvement.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/220.

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Ep 219 - Kevin Laslie: A Long Time Coming

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Kevin Laslie, a long-time supporter of the podcast, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his Utah moose hunt and filling his first tag after years of struggle. With no luck in meeting other hunters through working at Cabela’s, He finally connects with other hunters through the GoWild hunting app. Kevin ends up drawing a once-in-a-lifetime moose tag in Utah and planning with his guide. Although the pressure was on to harvest a giant bull, he drowned out the voices and chose his own measure of success. It’s always an option to start with upland and waterfowl when getting into hunting and learning from others, how to pack out and dress animals, etc. In the end, you’ll never stop learning and each animal brings its own set of challenges so it’s important to keep hunting hard for that success story that’ll leave you proud and grateful.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/219.

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Ep 218 - Christian Schauf: Venturing into the Uncharted

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:00:00 -0000

Christian Schauf, founder of Uncharted Supply Co., joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss the importance of being prepared while hunting and adventuring. Christian tells Sam a little about some of his emergency encounters and about the event that inspired him to start his survival and emergency product company, Uncharted Supply Co. He emphasizes that life skills are diminishing among the newer generations, which can lead to chaos, panic, disaster, or worse. Even though time in the wilderness can often be dangerous, especially when you’re far removed from others, the benefits of relaxation, focus, and peace are well worth it. Always make sure to track where you’re going and where you’ve been, and let someone know your plans.

See more on the show notes page at thewildintiative.com/218.

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Ep 217 - Senator Steve Daines: Standing Up for Montana

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0000

The Honorable Steve Daines, US Senator for Montana joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to highlight and discuss some of the major issues faced by outdoorsmen in Montana and across the US. With the influx of people to the state, Senator Daines reminds new residents about the importance of preserving the wildlife and the land that play a key role in making Montana such a beautiful place to call home or simply visit. The senator stresses the major issue of extreme environmental groups and politicians attempting to curry favor acting on emotion rather than science and facts when it comes to subjects such as responsible logging and grizzly bear management. Senator Daines admonishes us that while Montana’s future is bright, greater actions need to be taken to preserve the great state.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/217 .

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Ep 216 - Hank Shaw: Hunt, Gather, Cook

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Hank Shaw, wild game chef and author of Hunt, Gather, Cook, Buck, Buck, Moose and more, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk wild game cooking. Hank and Sam find some common ground when they talk about living in California and growing up fishing. They discuss different ways they cook wild game, misconceptions about older animals vs younger animals and even game that most wouldn’t consider eating. A good point Hank points out is most people are “cooking the tender parts too much and the tough parts too little” which can result in a dislike towards certain meat/game. Hank goes over the proper dry-aging process, creating master stock, what hot boning is, and many more tidbits to getting tender, tasty meat. It doesn’t matter how you eat your animal, it matters that you eat your animal.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/216 .

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BONUS - Dark Waters: More Legends from the Deep Dark

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Dark Waters, the master of YouTube horror, joins Sam again on The Wild Initiative for this special Halloween bonus episode. Dark Waters and Sam have a discussion of American paranormal creatures and monsters and give each a Dark Waters Creature Threat Rating. They discuss the Chupacabra, Blue Dogs, The Jersey/Leeds Devil, Mothman, the Wendigo, La Llorona, Slenderman, The Rake and many more. They also discuss the differences between Bigfoots, Yetis and Skunk Apes as well as talk through some true stories featuring mermaids, vampires and bat-faced humanoids.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/podcast.

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Ep 215 - Robbie Kroger: Back to Blood Origins

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Robbie Kroger with Blood Origins joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss the loaded term “trophy hunting”, high fence hunting, and some problematic issues within the hunting community/industry. Robbie and Sam talk about what it means to be a trophy hunter and the hunting community being its own enemy when it comes to tearing each other down and judging each other's hunts/kills. Robbie elaborates on how Blood Origins isn’t afraid to go up against anti-hunters and educate them, explaining how they’re wrong in a respectful way. Sam and Robbie continue on to discuss the benefits and consequences of hunting. As a result of Blood Origins’ efforts, a number of accounts have blocked them due to Blood Origin’s advocacy affecting their business, following, engagement, etc. Robbie and Sam both agree that we as hunters can’t put ourselves on a pedestal and that we need to bring to light what is wrong and what is right in hunting. It’s important to be honest and own up to our mistakes. Robbie states he’s only interested in conveying the truth about hunting. Does what you post help or hurt hunting and is it honest?

WIN A BLOOD ORIGINS T-SHIRT! Become a Blood Origins Supporter now through the end of November 2021, and if you leave "The Wild Initiative" in the comments when you sign up, you'll be entered to win a Blood Origins t-shirt.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/215.

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Ep 214 - Kara Schuett: Hunting, Fly Fishing and the Great State of Montana

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Kara Schuett of Yellow Sally Fishing and Montana Bucks & Ducks joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to throw back a few beers and talk about hunting and fly fishing in the great state of Montana. Kara and Sam catch up on life and discuss Kara’s projects, Yellow Sally Fishing, a fishing-themed clothing line for women and girls, and Montana Bucks & Ducks, her and her husband’s outfitting and guide service. Kara also discusses her involvement with Warriors & Quiet Waters, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting post-9/11 combat veterans and equipping them with everything they need to begin fly fishing. As the beer starts flowing, Kara and Sam cover just about everything, telling hunting stories, how putting in for tags generates funds for conservation, the best hunting dogs, why White Claws are so damn refreshing on the river and fantastically odd-named fishing flies.

See more on show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/214

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Ep 213 - Charles Beaty: (Reformed) Prince of Poachers

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Charles Beaty, the infamous Prince of Poachers, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to delve into his intriguing past as a renegade in the woods. From poaching 116 prized whitetail deer to surviving on raw deer meat for an astonishing 27 days straight, Charlie recounts his wild experiences, including evading law enforcement, and discusses how his life took a profound turn when he embraced Christianity and left his unlawful ways behind. In this candid conversation, he sheds light on the repercussions of choosing the path of an outlaw hunter and reflects on his book, with part two promising insight into his personal family journey. It's important to note that this podcast isn't intended to glorify poaching; Charlie's transformation is a testament to the potential for change.

Charlie reflects on his journey from a life of illegal hunting to a spiritual awakening, revealing moments of poaching deer, even surviving on raw deer meat during an extraordinary 27-day period. He shares stories of running afoul of the law and how his conversion to Christianity brought about a complete change in his mindset and lifestyle.

The discussion turns to the challenges and dangers Charlie encountered while indulging in outlaw hunting. He touches upon the different aspects of outlaw hunting in South Texas, highlighting the diverse hunting opportunities and acknowledging the unfortunate presence of poaching and boundary violations.

Charlie delves into the repercussions he faced for his past poaching activities and the constant anxiety it caused him. He shares the dynamics of his relationships with fellow hunters, experiences with authorities, and encounters with wild animals, offering a nuanced perspective on the repercussions of his past actions.

The discussion deepens as Charlie sheds light on his book project and how part two will provide insights into his family life and upbringing. Charlie underscores the importance of his narrative as a cautionary tale for aspiring and seasoned hunters alike. He shares his own experiences and struggles, hoping to deter others from following his path. The episode offers a glimpse into Charlie's transformation, demonstrating that redemption and positive change are indeed possible.

This discussion serves as a powerful reminder that personal growth and transformation are always within reach. His journey from being the Prince of Poachers to becoming an advocate for ethical hunting practices is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for positive change. For anyone curious about the human capacity for change and the redemptive power of faith, this episode provides an insightful perspective on personal growth, second chances, and the profound impact of leaving a life of wrongdoing behind.

Guest Info

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Ep 212 - Tana Grenda: Hunting Stories from the Last Frontier

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Tana Grenda of Bristol Bay Fitness joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about her experience huntin’ Alaska. In this episode, Tana tells Sam about her bull moose bowhunt and what could only be described as hunting and being chased by a zombie bear. Later they discuss how long you should look for an animal after wounding it and what it means to be a hunter that doesn't give up and betters themselves in the outdoors by constantly getting out of comfort zones.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/212.

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Ep 211 - Jesse Phillips: Finding Purpose

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Jesse Phillips, entrepreneur, and filmmaker joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the aspects of finding purpose in life. In this episode, they discuss the difference between harvesting vs killing animals, what it feels like having a full freezer and the importance of truly helping veterans. Later, they go into finding purpose through doing what you love and why being a minimalist may just work for you.

See more on the show notes page at thewildintiaitive.com/211.

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Ep 210 - Vaughn NeVille: Bears, UZI’s and Bullsh*t

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Vaughn NeVille of TheManSpot joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to bullsh*t just a bit about the outdoors and hunting. In this episode, they discuss how social media can bring out the worst in people while also bringing a lot of value to others. They later go on to talk about Vaughn's greatest hunting story, bear encounters and the status of our 2nd Amendment.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/210.

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Ep 209 - Randy Newberg: A Surprisingly Average Hunter

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Randy Newberg, the host of Fresh Tracks and Hunt Talk Radio, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about stories and lessons throughout his hunting career. In this episode, they discuss spending time in the field, filling tags, how much effort goes into their hunts, and more.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/209.

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Ep 208 - Rob Gearing: Our Common Thread of Hunting

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Rob Gearing (aka Mr. G) of Spartan Precision Equipment/Javelin Bipod joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss differences in hunting across the globe. In this episode, they discuss the North American model of wildlife conservation being the most successful in the world and how COVID has inspired license purchases. They also go on to discuss if that trend has any long-term staying power and how to educate the non-hunter on the truth about hunting.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/208.

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BONUS - Samuel Ayres: Guest Appearance on The District of Conservation Podcast with Gabriella Hoffman

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 18:21:00 -0000

Gabriella Hoffman of District of Conservation invites Sam to her podcast to discuss how Sam got into the outdoor industry. In this bonus episode, they discuss how “Country Sam” came to be and what his path looked like getting into the outdoor industry.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/podcast.

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BONUS - Samuel Ayres: Guest Appearance on the Focus Hunting Podcast with Kevin Toye

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Kevin Toye of Focus Hunting invites Sam to his podcast to discuss his hunting journey. In this bonus episode, they talk about Sam’s past LA life, how he was introduced to hunting and some awesome stories from the years of running his podcast.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/podcast.

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Ep 207 - Andy Moeckel: Tradition and Wild Game Flip Flop

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0000

The Flip Flop Guy, Andy Moeckel joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the power of the Flip Flop. ** WARNING: This episode has been shown to increase salivation and hunger drastically. Listen at your own risk. ** In this episode, Andy gets into his lip-smacking recipes, the traditions cooking wild game holds, the integration of people to the process and changing vegans minds though the connection of food.

See more on the show notes page at thewildintiative.com/207.

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Ep 206 - Jamey Shirah: Stepping Up Hunter Recruitment

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Jamey Shirah of the Hunter Recruitment Project joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about ways to increase the new hunting populations. In this episode, they discuss crazy turkey hunters, best practices for introducing novice hunters to the beautiful hobby, charging grizzly stories and prepping tips to make wild game that much better.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/206.

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Ep 205 - Henry Ferguson: Big Deer With Big Chief Whack-A-Buck

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Henry Ferguson, a.k.a. Big Chief Whack a Buck, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss his encounters with monster muleys, both typical and non-typical. In this episode, the chief goes into detail about his family's hunting stories, hard lessons learned about mule deer, and why there is some "tension" in the family on the topic of hunting elk versus muleys.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/205.

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Ep 204 - Baker Leavitt: Huntin’, Hormones & Pig Testicles

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Baker Leavitt of Black Rifle Coffee Company Outdoors joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about arrow mechanics, health, and more. In this episode, Baker goes into his African hunts, why heavier arrow builds are better and the negatives of casting judgment on others’ legal and ethical hunting tactics.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/204.

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Ep 203 - Mia Anstine: Breaking Stereotypes

Wed, 26 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Mia Anstine, outdoor writer, guide and hunting mentor, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about her advocacy efforts. In this episode, Mia talks about her childhood, how her daughter has become an accomplished outdoorswomen and the biases for women in the hunting world. They later go on to talk about the importance of communication, especially during a Russian Brown Bear hunt, the benefits of hiring guides and the importance of firearms education in preventing fatal incidents.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/203.

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Ep 202 - Ted Nugent: A Very American Tirade

Wed, 19 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Ted Nugent, legendary outdoorsman, musician, firearms enthusiast and political activist, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to “pluck some feathers” when it comes to conservation, freedom, truth and common sense. In this episode, Sam and Ted get confrontational on not so “common sense” gun laws, political division, living in fear and so much more. Put on your big-boy panties, ladies and gents… this one isn’t for the easily offended.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/202.

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Ep 201 - Dan Staton: Sweat Equity and Killing Elk

Wed, 12 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Dan Staton of ElkShape joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about what drives him as a man who prides himself on the development of what he calls “sweat equity.” In this episode, Dan goes into detail about his first encounter with a successful elk harvest, how time in the woods makes us more effective and present at home and how he leverages elk hunting to create the best possible versions of his ElkShape camp attendees. They also go into how important ridding negativity in your life is and why pushing through the little negative voice in your head will benefit you.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/201.

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Ep 200 - Samuel Ayres: Reminisce (2017 Elk Hunt)

Wed, 05 May 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Sam brings back Clayton Marxer, the Adventure Cowboy, to introduce The Wild Initiative’s 200th episode. In this episode, Sam and Clayton reminisce about the trials and tribulations of Sam’s 2017 elk hunt. Sam then shares the audio files he recorded at the end of each day, sharing the raw details of what’s going on in his mind throughout the whole process. This episode reminds us of how challenging it is to chase elk every September and how you should always hope for the best, but plan for the worst.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/200.

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Ep 199 - Guy Duplantier: Do Hard Sh*t

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Guy Duplantier, host of the Western Contours podcast, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about developing grit in life. In this episode, they discuss the benefits and drawbacks of solo vs group hunting, the growth that comes from doing difficult sh*t (even if it’s solely for the sake of doing difficult sh*t), how to become a more productive beast of a human and why elk hunting is better than all else.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/199.

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Ep 198 - Chef Joshua Schwencke: Honoring Wild Game in the Field and the Kitchen

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Chef Joshua Schwencke of Gastronomy joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about an integral part of honoring the game we hunt; how we prepare it in the kitchen. Joshua goes into how our presentation of food, particularly wild game, can be an art form. He later debunks what “gamey” actually means and how to reach that apex of flavor with various recipes and techniques to use for Western Game.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/198.

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Ep 197 - Greg McHale: Hard-Charging Forward... or Body-Shaming with Greg McHale

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Greg McHale, host of Greg McHale’s Wild Yukon joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his philosophies surrounding physical fitness in the outdoors and life. In this episode, they talk about Greg’s origins in the Yukon, how to create Atomic Habits that increase your freedom throughout the day and the foundations of creating a healthy life. Later, they discuss how to start getting active and start utilizing the thing you cannot make more of; time.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/197.

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Ep 196 - Ryan Lampers: Digging Deeper Into Spring Bear

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

The StHealthy Hunter, Ryan Lampers joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to dig into the details of Spring Bear Season. In this episode, Ryan shares his daughter’s first successful deer harvest and how to get children into hunting. The episode wouldn’t be complete without chatting about the imminent approach of Spring Bear Season. Ryan and Sam discuss best practices for processing and storing bear meat, bear’s unique personality and the importance of situational awareness when predator calling during Bear Season.

If you’re interested in learning from Ryan and some of the most knowledgeable and consistently successful western hunters, be sure to check out Western Hunting Summit. Two summits are already sold out and only a few passes are left. You don’t want to miss this unbeatable experience that will cut your learning curve by years.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/196.

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Ep 195 - Jim Shockey: Why We Hunt

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Jim Shockey joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down why we hunt. In this episode, Jim goes into detail on how his mentality on hunting motivations has changed over the years, how hunting in -100 degree temps breaks humans but also creates incredible character and what the perfect hunt looks like. Jim and Sam later go on to discuss how meat is not typically a wholly honest motivator for hunting and how tofu has killed just as many animals as hunters.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/195.

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Ep 194 - Douglas Boze: Spring Bear Season Basics

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Douglas Boze, author of The Ultimate Guide to Black Bear Hunting joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to dig into all the basics of Spring bear hunting. In this episode, they discuss the allure of predator hunting, what you need to look for when initially scouting and how to tell the difference between rub and bear-stripping on trees. They also go on to talk about shot placement, why observing bear habits is crucial to your success and a bunch of little tactics that will help you immensely in the field.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/194.

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Ep 193 - Senator Steve Daines: A Voice for Our Nation’s Sportsmen

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

The Honorable Steve Daines, United States Senator for Montana joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to share his vision for wildlife and public lands management in Montana and across the nation. Senator Daines reminisces about his childhood memories of growing up in Montana and fishing with his grandfather and goes on to recap the 2020 election and confront the attacks made against him by the opposition. Sam and Senator Daines go on to discuss his questioning of Representative Haaland, Biden’s nominee for Secretary of the Interior and his confrontation of her inconsistent statements over science-based wildlife management and the delisting of the grizzly bear.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/193.

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Ep 192 - Brian Barney: Molded by the Backcountry

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Brian Barney of Eastmans’ Elevated joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the life-changing benefits of immersing yourself in the backcountry. In this episode, they discuss bowhunting and the upcoming spring bear season, beer and burgers as a hunting power-meal, flaws with the pro-wolf agenda and how our “difficult” daily-life decisions are made much less intimidating by the backcountry. Brian and Sam go on to discuss a little bit of everything from CWD to hunting legislation and why public land hunting is such a unique equalizer of people.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/192.

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Ep 191 - Josh Smith: Surround Yourself with Greatness

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Josh Smith of Montana Knife Company joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the results of surrounding yourself with high-performing individuals. In this episode, they talk about a shift in focus from university education to trades, the importance of learning by hands-on experience and understanding the difference between someone looking for feedback versus simply sharing their work. Josh and Sam move on to discuss the difficulties of a life without fingerprints, the reality behind the scenes of Forged in Fire and the incredible things that can happen when you surround yourself with “deep water, thin air” people.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/191.

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Ep 190 - Steve Chappell: Obsessed with Elk

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Steve Chappell of Chappell’s Guide Service and host of ElkCampTV joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about their obsession with Elk. In this episode, Steve talks about his strategies for locating elk in new units. He also gives his take on calling techniques, being adaptable in the woods and the ethics of and controversy over using trail cameras and other hunting tech.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/190.

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Ep 189 - John Barklow: Knowledge from Storms

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

John Barklow, Veteran and Big Game Product Manager for Sitka Gear, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to reinforce the importance of continual learning and growth. In this episode, John shares his extensive outdoor knowledge and discusses finding balance in what you’re doing even with a “no off-season” attitude. They also cover the romanticized nature of Western Hunting, the power of learning from your mistakes on every hunt and how to leverage your personal skills.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/189.

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Ep 188 - Donnie Vincent: Our Origins in the Wild

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Donnie Vincent, biologist, filmmaker, and all-around adventurer, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his unbelievable experiences. Donnie discusses the dichotomy of being a hunter but passionate about animals and conservation, how we are not designed for comfort, and his extraordinary first trip to Alaska. They also detail the mindset hunters should have, experiencing every moment of life and finding hunting ventures opportunities.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/188.

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Ep 187 - Cody Rich: Keep it Simple

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Cody Rich, host of The Rich Outdoors Podcast, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss the basics of getting into Western hunting. In this episode, they discuss what things finally “clicked” to bring about a successful hunt, “graduating” to new levels based on experience and how to build the foundation of your hunting knowledge. They also dig into situation-dependent stalking tips, how weather affects herd populations and more.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/187.

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Ep 186 - Jack Carr: Creating Tradition

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jack Carr, author, hunter and former Navy SEAL joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss life experiences and how hunting became a family tradition. In this episode, Jack recounts stories of his Marine grandfather and explains how he integrates his real-life experiences into his work as an author. They go on to discuss big-game hunting abroad and in Hawaii and the latest installment in Jack’s Terminal List series, The Devil’s Hand.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/186.

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Ep 185 - Huntin' Fool: Elk Draw Strategies

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile and Robert Hanneman of Huntin’ Fool join Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down how to build your plan for drawing elk tags and how to integrate these species into your overall big game hunting plan and strategy.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/185

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Ep 184 - Huntin' Fool: Mule Deer Draw Strategies

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile and Robert Hanneman of Huntin’ Fool join Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down how to build your plan for drawing mule deer tags and how to integrate this species into your overall big game hunting plan and strategy.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/184.

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Ep 183 - Huntin' Fool: Pronghorn Antelope Draw Strategies

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile and Robert Hanneman of Huntin’ Fool join Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down how to build your plan for drawing pronghorn tags and how to integrate this species into your overall big game hunting plan and strategy.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/183.

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Ep 182 - Huntin' Fool: Moose Draw Strategies

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile and Robert Hanneman of Huntin’ Fool join Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down how to build your plan for drawing moose tags and how to integrate this species into your overall big game hunting plan and strategy.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/182.

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Ep 181 - Huntin' Fool: Sheep & Goat Draw Strategies

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile and Robert Hanneman of Huntin’ Fool join Sam on The Wild Initiative to break down how to build your plan for drawing sheep and goat tags and how to integrate these species into your overall big game hunting plan and strategy.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/181.

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Ep 180 - Huntin’ Fool: The Ultimate Big Game Draw Breakdown

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Jerrod Lile, CEO of Huntin’ Fool, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to give the ultimate breakdown of the North American big game hunting draw. This episode talks about different types, point creep, bonus points, application costs, and resident versus nonresident tags. They also discuss how to build an application plan and why the phrase “I’m going to draw too many tags” is a myth. Keep an eye out for species-specific draw episodes coming soon.

Promo code functionality is currently not working on the website. Please call Huntin’ Fool at (435) 865-1020 and mention code TWI60 to get 60 days of the Huntin’ Fool digital membership for FREE!

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/180.

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Ep 179 - Macy Watkins: Fishin’, Huntin’ and TikTok

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Macy Watkins joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to chat about her experience in the hunting industry. In this episode, they discuss the difference between wanting to hunt versus working in the industry, how she has become viral on multiple platforms, especially in Wisconsin. Macy and Sam also talk about some of their favorite fishing memories and braving the cold while duck hunting with Mr. Heater and many layers.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/179.

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Ep 178 - Rachel Ahtila: Pandemics and Predation

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Rachel Ahtila joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about their observations of the pandemic within the hunting world. In this episode, they discuss the resurgence of interest in hunting this year, if this ‘fad’ will have staying power, Randy Newberg, Jason Matzinger and Remi Warren’s dance moves and the management of predators and unregulated wildlife populations.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/178.

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Ep 177 - Chris Dorsey: The Ultimate Campaign for Hunting

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

The world's most-traveled hunter and godfather of hunting television, Chris Dorsey, joins Sam to talk about the critical need for us to communicate the importance of hunter and angler-based conservation to the non-hunting public. In this episode, they discuss the changes in hunting media from its inception to our current time, how the hunting of African elephants clearly demonstrates the efficacy of hunting as a method of conservation and how we, as a hunting community, have failed to tell our story in an impactful manner to the correct audience.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/177.

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Ep 176 - Ben Sittig: How to Be a HUGE Fly Fisherman

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Ben Sittig, the Huge Fly Fisherman, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about getting into fly fishing. In this episode, Ben talks about the essentials needed to start rippin’ lips with a fly, how he started out with the sport and the expectation versus reality. Later in the episode, they reconvene to discuss the difficulties of casting into the wind and why some people just hate fun and lightheartedness in the boat.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/176.

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Ep 175 - Jim Zumbo: Knowledge is Key

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Jim Zumbo, editor for Outdoor Life Magazine and host of Jim Zumbo Outdoors, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about becoming a more knowledgeable hunter. In this episode, they talk about the behind-the-scenes complexities of hunting television, obsession with elk and why it’s critical for hunters to know and thoroughly understand the regs. Jim goes on to talk about his passion for backcountry hunting and his advice for aspiring outdoor writers.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/175.

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Ep 174 - Greg Simons: Find Your Mentor

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Greg Simons, founder of Wildlife Systems, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the importance of wildlife conservation. In this episode, they discuss how to choose and reach out to mentors, the origination and definition of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and our biophilic nature as humans.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/174.

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Ep 173 - Tim Fallon: Becoming an Effective, Ethical Hunter

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Tim Fallon of FTW Ranch and SAAM Hunter Training joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss investing in yourself to become an effective and ethical hunter. In this episode, Tim goes in-depth on deciding your maximum effective range while hunting, the pressure you get from having “hair in the scope” and why investing in yourself is crucial for hunts.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/173.

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Ep 172 - Samuel Ayres: Road-Trip Recaps and News

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

On his drive back “home” from Montana after an eventful road trip, Sam recaps the past two months hunting and fishing through Arizona, Colorado, Utah and Montana. In this episode, he reminisces about the many firsts he’s achieved this year… from his first elk, to his first fish on the fly as well as waterfowling, upland game and much more. He also shares a life-changing announcement in this quick episode.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/172.

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Ep 171 - Dark Waters: Dark Stories of Creatures that Go Bump in the Night

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Dark Waters, the King of YouTube Horror and a paranormal investigator, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for a spine-chilling Halloween episode. Prepare for a journey into the realm of the unknown as Dark Waters shares stories and insights he's gathered about the eerie creatures lurking in the woods and beyond, waiting to send shivers down your spine.

In this episode, Dark Waters delves into his investigation style, revealing how he distinguishes genuine stories from false ones and how he deals with skeptics. Brace yourself for hair-raising tales, from encounters with the enigmatic Dogman, fire demons, and faceless humanoids to the elusive Red Man, all of which will make you reconsider those early-morning hunts and late-night treks.

For those who relish a good scare and have an interest in the unknown, this episode is an eye-opener. Dark Waters brings his expertise to the forefront, urging listeners to be open-minded and cautious when it comes to the supernatural. Prepare to enter a world of cryptic encounters, eerie phenomena, and tales that will leave you with a newfound awareness of the unexplained.

Guest Info

Dark Waters

Get deals and discounts on products, gear and more from friends of The Wild Initiative at thewildinitiative.com/discounts.

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Ep 170 - Larry Weishuhn: Campfire Talk

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Larry Weishuhn, wildlife biologist, hunter and conservationist, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to have a good ol’ fashioned campfire-style chat about hunting, conservation and storytelling. Take a seat and enjoy as Larry and Sam discuss the whitetail hunting revolution, why you should never carry a long blade, hunting storytelling, enjoying the journey and releasing grizzlies in Los Angeles. Larry also reflects on some of his favorite stories from the field.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/170.

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Ep 169 - Erik Myhre: Shared Bounty from Basin and Bend

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Erik Myhre, founder of Basin+Bend, joins Sam on the Wild Initiative to talk about the wonderful outdoor opportunities afforded to us. Erik and Sam go on to talk about their “three-day weekend Colorado trout slam”, how refreshing it is to hunt pronghorn and how “extinct” trout have made a comeback. They later discuss why sharing food from your harvest is such an integral part of the hunting experience.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/169.

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Ep 168 - Amberley Snyder: Still Here to Win

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Amberley Snyder, paraplegic champion barrel racer, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about overcoming life-changing situations. In this episode, they discuss Amberley’s youth as a barrel racer, cameos in Yellowstone and the incident that changed her life forever. They also go into the trial and error process of getting back to barrel racing, her hunting experiences and how you should make the memories rather than waiting for them to happen.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/168.

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Ep 167 - John Stallone: Pure Gratitude

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

John Stallone of Days in The Wild joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to Sam’s 2020 season and his very first elk harvest. In this episode, they start with a seemingly impossible draw for Arizona and then go on to discuss the successful stalk in potentially one of the worst ruts in recent history. They also talk about the events that led up to fulfilling that defining first tag.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/167.

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Ep 166 - Drew Kress: Big Boy Huntin’ in Alaska

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Drew Kress, veteran and avid Alaskan hunter joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about The Last Frontier. In this episode, they discuss their archery shot routine, Drew’s close call with a Kodiak bear, and how hunting in Alaska separates the men from the boys. Drew also talks about utilizing a U-Haul hack for your Kodiak Island hunt, how to get started hunting in the great wilderness of Alaska, and why taking opportunities when you get the chance is so important.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/166.

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Ep 165 - Rebecca Lentz: Ribbon Dancin’ for Fish

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Angler and army vet, Rebecca Lentz joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to share her journey into the world of fly fishing. In this episode, Rebecca talks about the stigmas of “intruding” on other people’s fishing trips, how to decide on switching spots or switching flies and why you must absolutely wash your line after taking it home from the store. They also discuss how to properly handle the species of fish you catch and how every angler starts as a beginner.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/165.

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Ep 164 - Sidney Smith: Part Way is Not Good Enough

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Sidney Smith, double amputee, Iron Man and OG Living Country in the City podcast guest joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss achieving your goals in the face of overwhelming adversity. In this episode, they discuss the literal puddles of blood that went into Sidney’s grueling Iron Man, why the mindset of having a “Plan B” is not an option and how we love to obsess over mature muleys. They also talk about their bow setups for the season, how Sidney developed his “hunting legs” and the mission behind Disabled Outdoorsmen USA.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/164.

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Ep 163 - Sarah Joy & Nadra Decker: A Beginner’s Guide to Waterfowl

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Sarah Joy and Nadra Decker join Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss everything you need to know about getting started with waterfowl hunting. In this episode, Sam, Sarah, and Nadra dig into all the basics that a newbie would need to know when it comes to waterfowling, including how to practice, critical gear and decoy usage. They also discuss hunting Sika (not Sitka) deer in Maryland, why bowfishing is so much fun, what the hell body bootin’ is and how ethical hunters actually feel when an animal is wounded.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/163.

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Ep 162 - Lydia Smith: A Self-Taught Success Story

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Lydia Smith, backcountry hunter, horse trainer, and wildlife artist joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to share the struggles and achievements of her hunting journey. In this episode, Lydia explains how, while she went out trapping squirrels with her dad, growing up, she was never taught to hunt. She examines the struggles of being a self-taught hunter, navigating and learning all the extensive hunting regs, and developing her archery skill while discovering her passion for bowhunting. Lydia also breaks down her pronghorn hunt and provides several tips and tricks for stalking them in the summer heat as well as discusses her passion for wildlife art and hunting from horseback.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/162.

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Ep 161 - Jana Waller: Tradition, Culture and Conservation

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Jana Waller of Skullbound Chronicles on Carbon TV joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about deep-rooted traditions of hunting and conservation. In this episode, they talk about Jana’s final Wisconsin rifle hunt with her father ending with an amazing animal, deer camp heritage, hunting out of sketchy treestands, the difference in experience between hunting versus hiking, and how soft we have become in today’s society. They also discuss how hunters contribute to the wildlife through conservation efforts and how hunters are beginning to be portrayed well in the media.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinititative.com/161.

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Ep 160 - Remi Warren: Create Your Hunting Reality

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Remi Warren, guide, writer, TV and podcast host, and one of the most knowledgeable and obsessive hunters out there, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about the blood, sweat, and tears that went into creating who he is today. In this episode, Remi fields several mule deer and related hunting questions submitted by listeners. He covers searching out, in any hunt area, the rare resource that deer need, gaining an edge by identifying patterns, learning to trust your gut, and using your mind and attitude to create your own hunting reality. Remi and Sam also discuss the tactics and methods of hunting that fit them best based on their strengths, being self-aware enough to recognize the holes in your knowledge and why you should go completely pack-less on multi-day backcountry hunts.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/160.

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Ep 159 - James Nash: Be Brilliant in the Basics

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

James Nash, Cpt. USMC Ret., of 6 Ranch Outfitters joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to share highlights from a lifetime of elk hunting knowledge. In this episode, James looks back at his childhood being raised on a six-generation ranch, building knowledge of wildlife conservation and gaining insight on elk by observing the unique behavior of Corriente cattle. They discuss important tactics needed for locating elk in your hunt area, types of elk calls, getting personally offended at his treatment by cow elk, common hunter mistakes, adopting hipsters each year, and the importance of being prepared to handle equipment issues in the field. James also touches on the importance of hunting to military veterans and the real reason we, as a community, should place emphasis on assisting veterans.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiaitive.com/159.

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Ep 158 - True Pearce: Running and Gunning

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

True Pearce, competitive shooter, attorney and editor at Guns America, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk firearms and hunting. In this episode, they discuss True’s youth journeying deep into the backcountry with his father, the world of competitive shooting and how it translates to hunting, the degradation of our wild places, his best advice for new shooters, why you should never ever listen to Joe Biden’s home-defense advice, and the best firearms to use for self-defense.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/158.

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Ep 157 - Arlando Chiles (aka Buck da Black Hunter): A Divine Huntervention

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Arlando Chiles (a.k.a. Buck da Black Hunter) of Campfire Evolution joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his life-changing “huntervention”. In this episode, they talk about how alcoholism and depression steered him onto the path of hunting, discovering Randy Newberg while watching YouTube rap videos, advice for archery newbies, starting your hunt at the trailhead rather than the destination and Arlando’s authentic goofy self.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/157.

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Ep 156 - Corey Piersol & Chris Ollis: Two Californians, One New Yorker and Several Montana Beers

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Corey Piersol of Burch Barrel and Chris Ollis, San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Detective, join Sam on The Wild Initiative over a few Montana beers to recap a weekend at Western Hunting Summit and talk hunting. In this episode, they talk about a little bit of everything including filling your freezer with wild game, growing up anti-hunting, a recap of the 2020 Mule Deer Summit, mental toughness, grilling experiences with Burch Barrel and what native Montanans “really” think about Californians.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/156.

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Ep 155 - Mike Ensch: Catching Up With a Hunting Buddy

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Mike Ensch, hunter, angler, music festival producer and old friend, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to catch up and chat about the outdoors. In this episode they discuss immersing yourself in the outdoors in any way possible, crazy characters in the music industry, learning to love the process rather than the results, the similarities between hunting and surfing, the restorative power of nature, upland game hunting with his GSP Mr. Mustache, taking city-boys out hunting for the first time and the importance of the yearly hunting camp tradition.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/155.

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Ep 154 - Mark Livesay: Building a Hunt Plan and Locating Elk

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Mark Livesay of Treeline Pursuits joins Sam on The Wild Initiative for an in-depth exploration of the art and science of scouting for elk. With decades of backcountry hunting experience under his belt, Mark has honed his skills and developed a unique, groundbreaking system for locating prime hunting areas. From paper topo maps to cutting-edge digital tools like Google Earth, Mark shares his best tips and strategies for crafting the ultimate hunt plan.

Discover the secrets of scouting, the importance of mobility and adaptability, and the power of having a solid written hunting plan. In this episode, Mark breaks down the significance of studying hunt areas, identifying zones of pressure, and knowing access points and campgrounds like the back of your hand. His expertise extends to understanding the impact of beetle kills and burns on elk habitats, providing you with a holistic view of the terrain.

He dives deep into the features of various mapping applications, revealing the pros and cons of each platform at different stages of hunt development. Mark's dedication to sharing his unbiased knowledge shines through, offering insights into tools like Google Earth, OnX, and Basemap. He emphasizes the power of blending digital and analog methods when scouting and hunting, creating a comprehensive approach that maximizes your chances of success.

Mark's encounters with fellow hunters, his attempts to call in elusive elk, and his willingness to help others with butchering add a real-world touch to the wealth of information he provides. His passion for hunting is infectious, and his dedication to helping fellow hunters shines through in every word. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your hunting journey, this episode is a goldmine of insights and techniques that will elevate your hunting game.

To take your hunting skills to the next level, be sure to check out Mark's Treeline Academy, the ultimate course on e-scouting. And here's a special treat for fans of The Wild Initiative: use code TWI to get $20 OFF your subscription to Treeline Academy. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a true hunting expert and enhance your elk hunting experience.

Guest Info

Mark Livesay/Treeline Academy

treelineacademy.net (Use code TWI for $20 OFF.)
@treeline_pursuits
facebook.com/treelinepursuits
youtube.com/@TreelineAcademy
mark@ultramasports.com

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 153 - Cable Smith: Shooting the Sh*t About Hunting

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Cable Smith, host of the Lonestar Outdoor Show, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to catch up and just shoot the sh*t for a while about hunting. In this episode, they discuss road trips and living like a transient gypsy, whiskey and cigars and how open and welcoming the hunting community can be. They cover a little bit of everything: how COVID has affected the hunting community and African wildlife, gun safety, waterfowl and upland game hunting, beer and guns, mountain lion hunting, high fence vs public land and where our desire to hunt big game stems from.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/153.

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Ep 152 - Bert Sorin: Hunting for Extraordinary Experiences

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Bert Sorin, CEO of Sorinex, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about preparation for your next hunt. On this podcast, they discuss the concept of fitness versus strength and how it fits into the outdoors, what it means to go “deep-water” on your passions, the intense preparation of getting a once-in-a-lifetime animal, discovering where you need to hunt and his definition of success.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/152.

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Ep 151 - Laura Zerra: Crafting Your Outdoor Experience from Start to Finish

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Primitive survivalist Laura Zerra joins Sam on The Wild Initiative about building your ideal lifestyle and outdoor experience. In this episode, Laura reminisces about growing up as the “weird kid” whose closest friends were a pack of coyotes. She walks us through her journey into veganism and her transition back into eating meat as well as many of the various delicacies outside of traditional wild game. They also cover the concept of self-reliance in everything you do, facing near-death experiences in the wilderness, learning from our many hunting mistakes and her catastrophic near-disaster of an elk hunt.

See more at thewildinitiative.com/151.

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Ep 150 - Byron Pace: The Most Irresponsible Thing We Can Do is Nothing

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 06:57:00 -0000

Byron Pace, photographer and filmmaker, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss conservation and our hunting media. In this episode, Byron discusses his involvement in Modern Huntsman and the changes in our consumption and presentation of hunting media as well as the important values his father imparted to him with regards to the outdoors. They also discuss the concept of individual versus ecosystem passions for animals, the existence of the Loch Ness monster, the blood-lust journey through hunting, offensive gingerism and, of course, Cecil the Lion.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/150.

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Ep 149 - Tom Rowland: Capable for Your Family, Your Future and the Outdoors

Wed, 27 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Tom Rowland, fishing guide and host of Saltwater Experience and the Tom Rowland Podcast, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss how fitness has improved his life as a hunter, angler and family man. In this episode, they discuss the sacrifices you have to be willing to make to live the life you want and how to discover your direction. Tom tells the story of falling out of shape, finding himself consistently beat, sore and injured and how that affected his time in the outdoors. He then talks about his journey, the importance of physical fitness to both the outdoors and your family life and why staying fit is critical rather than just a luxury.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/149.

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BONUS - Robin Black: Enjoy the Hostilities

Sun, 24 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Robin Black, MMA Analyst and Commentator and king of the one-minute breakdown, joins Sam, in this bonus episode of The Wild Initiative, on an Instagram Live session. They have a fantastic conversation covering a little bit of everything including trophy hunting, masculinity, athlete hunters, the emotional connection to what we fight or kill and the numerous ways their individual passions coincide.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/podcast/2020/5/podcast-bonus-episode-robin-black-enjoy-the-hostilities.

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Ep 148 - Blake Manning: The California Outdoorsman

Wed, 20 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Blake Manning, a fellow California native, joins Sam to talk about the endless opportunities for hunting that California offers. In this episode, they discuss the ins-and-outs of reaching out to private landowners, their Spring turkey seasons, hunting coastal blacktail, taking his wife out on her first hunt, and sharing the bounty of the hunt with family and friends.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/148.

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Ep 147 - Brandon Lilly: Shutting Down or Stepping Up

Wed, 06 May 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Powerlifter Brandon Lilly joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss overcoming adversity and the power of stripping life down to the basics. In this episode, Brandon walks us through his journey as a powerlifter and through his recovery from a catastrophic rupture of both knees. He also provides his insight on a wide variety of topics including moving towards a primitive lifestyle, facing difficult situations, controlled breathing exercises, fitness routines and functional movement, the ethics of a “Texas Heart Shot” and learning to slow down and observe before taking action.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/147.

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Ep 146 - Britt Longoria: Honor the Hunt

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Britt Longoria joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss what it truly means to be a hunter. In this episode, Britt reminisces about traveling the world hunting with her father, the important legacy he left, the start of her love affair with Africa and growing up with dreams of running an African Safari Company. They also discuss the controversial “leopard photo,” flipping the stereotypical image of a hunter, speaking at an emotional level about our reasons for hunting and learning to understand the non-hunter perspective in order to more effectively communicate.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/146.

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Ep 145 - Michael Lavallee, The Quiet Survivalist: Planning to Improvise is Planning to Fail

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

The Quiet Survivalist and 30+ year military and federal law enforcement veteran, Michael Lavalle, joins Sam on the Wild Initiative to talk about essential survival skills. In this episode, they discuss must-have survival gear for your pack, fire-starting tactics, how to find water in the desert, and even some super handy tricks for locating and tracking elk on “over-hunted” public land.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/145.

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Ep 144 - Locke Wheeler: Talkin' Turkey, Part 2

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Locke Wheeler is back again, talkin' turkey with Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss how the weather and seasons affect turkey behavior during the day, whether or not to use decoys, turkey rafter dynamics, decoy setup strategies, aggressive and timid calling techniques and how to locate toms in the morning.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/144.

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Ep 143 - Anna Van Nostrand: Life Will Take You Where You Need to Go

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Anna Van Nostrand of Anna V Outdoors joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk all about wing-shooting, bird dogs and the hunting life. In this episode, they discuss her history as a firearms instructor, developing her passion for wing-shooting and bird-doggin', getting her daughters into hunting, how to get your start in the sport and the essential gear you'll need.

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Ep 142 - Fisher Neal: Learn to Hunt NYC

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Fisher Neal of Learn to Hunt NYC and Yale Drama School joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his passion for teaching others to hunt. In this episode, they discuss wanting to pursue a career in acting without sacrificing hunting and fishing, the opportunities available to hunters in New York and New Jersey, the logistics of managing whitetails on Staten Island, city-dwellers' fascination with the ethical harvest of organic meat, starting Learn to Hunt NYC and the importance of mentorship.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/142.

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Ep 141 - Mark Kenyon: That Wild Country, a Public Land Journey

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Mark Kenyon of Wired to Hunt and MeatEater joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss his new book, That Wild Country. In this episode, they discuss advice for someone building a career in the outdoor industry, the romantic mythology of “heading west” and his personal journey, advice for first-time mountain hunters, physical fitness, setting expectations, how public lands became foundational to his life and his ideal public lands tour for the newbie.

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Ep 140 - Isaac Aleman: It's All About the FOC... or Not

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 01:11:00 -0000

Isaac Aleman, formerly of Easton, joins Sam on the Wild Initiative at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to discuss, among other things, why FOC stands for "f**king overcomplicated." In this episode, they cover Easton's history and roots in California, Rambo First Blood Pt 2, the value of hunting the same area year after year, introducing your kids to hunting, getting into the hunting industry, the "Goose, Maverick and Iceman" levels of pro-staff, discovering your bad habits and starting simply as you're learning to shoot.

NOTE: Since recording this episode, Isaac has moved on from Easton and is currently pursuing other opportunities.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/140.

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Ep 139 - Marc “Muley Slayer” Smith & Jeremy Dugger: Finding and Shooting Big Muleys

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 01:19:00 -0000

Marc Smith and Jeremy Dugger sit down with Sam on The Wild Initiative at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to talk hunting big muleys. In this episode they cover, locating big mule deer and learning to kill them where they are, important terrain features to look for, tracking deer, road hunting, laying down in deer beds pushing deer and pretty much everything you need to know to hunt big muleys.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/139,

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CCB - Boone & Crockett Club

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Justin Spring, Director of Records for Boone & Crockett Club joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break

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Ep 138 - Jordan Romney: Stepping Up Your Fly Casting

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 02:16:00 -0000

Jordan Romney of Drift on the Fly joins Sam on The Wild Initiative at the Sacramento International Sportsman's Expo. In this episode, they discuss guiding fly fishing in California, how Steelhead runs can interfere with college courses, starter gear and how fly fishing is becoming more affordable for beginners, power versus style, the physics behind casting a fly, the step-by-step process of casting, "last cast syndrome" and simple tips and tricks you can practice to improve your fly casting.

Learn more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/138.

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CCB - Fly Fishers International (FFI) Intro

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

President and CEO, Patrick Berry and Conservation Chair, Dave Peterson of Fly Fishers International, join Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 137 - Kaitlyn Lowes: Texas Hogs on Horseback

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Kaitlyn Lowes joins Sam on the Wild Initiative in the NSSF Lounge at SHOT Show in Las Vegas. In this episode, they discuss hunting her family’s property in Texas and taking her first deer, the beauty of processing your own wild game meat, shooting and hog hunting from horseback, the ethics of high-fence hunting and hunting overseas.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/137.

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CCB - Shepherds of Wildlife Society Intro

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Tom Opre, Founder and CEO of the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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CCB - Migratory Bird Joint Ventures (MBJV) Intro

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 17:51:00 -0000

Mitch Hartley, Assistant Coordinator of the Atlantic Coast Migratory Bird Joint Ventures, joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 136 - Nick Smith: The Informative Fisherman; or Hot Beer and Carp Fishing

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Nick Smith, the Informative Fisherman, joins Sam in a boat at the Sacramento International Sportsmen’s Expo for this episode of The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss his becoming the first full-time fishing YouTube’er and earning the name “Informative Fisherman”, the science of mother nature and how it affects bass fishing, calling fishing “audibles”, the easiest way to get started bass fishing, eating Double Whoppers on the treadmill, building a multipurpose fishing kit, different types of lures and why/when they work, shoot-and-release hunting and setting your fishing expectations correctly.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/136.

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CCB - QDMA Intro

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Lindsay Thomas, Director of Communications for the Quality Deer Management Association, joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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BONUS - Mike Hale: A Reintroduction to Hunting

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Mike Hale, winner of the January Run, Ride or Ruck Challenge and one of the earliest subscribers of the podcast, joins Sam on the Wild Initiative for this bonus release.

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CCB - Running Rivers Intro

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 18:51:00 -0000

Andrew Todd, President of Running Rivers joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 135 - Robbie Kroger: It's in Your Blood

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Robbie Kroger, founder of the Blood Origins Project, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss exploring what hunting means to each individual, fighting against the lack of authenticity in hunting media, trying to target the “why” in his stories and not just the kill, adding to the Blood Origins family tree and how hearing these stories has expanded his view of hunting.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/135.

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CCB - Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports (CAHSS)

Sat, 08 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Kristen Black, Manager of Communications for the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports, joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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CCB - Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Intro

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Corey Mason, Executive Director and CEO of Dallas Safari Club joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 134 - Nick Hoffman: Wired for the Wild

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Nick Hoffman, of Nick’s Wild Ride on The Outdoor Channel, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative at the NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas. In this episode, they discuss being wired as a hunter versus being wired as a gatherer, feeling a longing for the wild without knowing what’s missing, wanting to start an Anthony Bourdain-style hunting show, running away at the age of 17 to play fiddle in Branson, Missouri, his experiences from hunting cape buffalo in Africa to Dall sheep in Alaska, putting in work to take advantage of lucky strokes and believing in your ability to succeed.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/134.

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CCB - National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) Intro

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Justin Morrisey of The National Shooting Sports Foundation joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 133 - Casey & Regina Stafford: Waterfowl, Hogs and California, the Land of Hunting Opportunity

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Casey & Regina Stafford of CICC Outdoor Adventures join Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss the abundant hunting opportunities offered by the State of California, waterfowl as an easy introduction into hunting and an in-depth discussion of locating and hunting hogs on public land.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/133.

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Ep 132 - Andrew Scott: Solo Hunting Elk in the PNW

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Andrew Scott joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to discuss his successful 2019 elk season in Oregon. In this episode, they discuss how to recover after misses, hunting big bulls on his 10th anniversary, difficulties and differences when solo hunting, hunting as a big red runaway sign and why we love taking on something that is, at times, so miserable.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/132.

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CCB - Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever Intro

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Jared Wiklund of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 131 - Joel Turner: Controlled Process Shooting

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Joel Turner of Shot IQ joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to take your bow and rifle shooting up a notch. In this episode, they discuss the importance of shot control and Joel's development of his Controlled Process Shot System, learning to override your nervous system and consciously defy human nature, the four fundamentals of shooting, finding your determination, how to blueprint your successful shots and learning to decide, not shoot.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/131.

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CCB - Sportsmen's Alliance Intro

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Brian Lynn of Sportsmen's Alliance joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 130 - Collin Cottrell: Sowing the Seeds of Hunting

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Collin Cottrell joins Sam on the Wild Initiative for the first episode of 2020. In this episode, they discuss the difference between working in the hunting industry and being a professional hunter, finding old MySpace photos, giving others power over you by putting so much effort into hating on them, his perspective of Ryan Michler's first hunt, the exponential value of introducing others to hunting, Al Gore's invention of the Internet and the value of making yourself available.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/130.

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Ep 129 - Brenna McCoubrey: She Does What?!

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Brenna McCoubrey of the She Does What?! Podcast joins Sam on The Wild Initiative. Brenna and Sam have recently worked to launch a brand new design and website for her podcast, which focuses on providing a resource to women who are new to the outdoors. In this episode, they discuss hunting ducks and fishing for striped bass out in New England, things she’s learned from running the podcast, addressing fears as you go along through your hunting journey and what she’s doing to grow as a hunter.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/129.

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Ep 128 - Ryan Michler: Finding Victory Through Growth

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Ryan Michler, of Order of Man, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss how a focus on masculinity often leads directly to hunting, finding fulfillment, not in success, but in overcoming challenges, seeing remorse and embarrassment as positives, communication and compromise and his reasons behind starting Order of Man.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/128.

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Ep 127 - Jaden Bales: Finding Elk Hunting Success... Finally

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Jaden Bales joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his successful 2019 archery elk season. In this episode, they discuss the factors leading to his success after five years of unfilled tags, The Rich Outdoors Elk 201 mini-course, pushing through disappointments, elk calves trying to crawl into your pack and tactics to be a more consistent elk hunter year after year.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/127.

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Ep 126 - Bill "Gravel Bar Gourmet" Cooper & "Paddle" Don Cranfill: Campfire Stories from Driftwood Acres

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Bill “The Gravel Bar Gourmet” Cooper and “Paddle” Don Cranfill sit down around the campfire at Driftwood Acres with Sam during their whitetail hunt to have a few drinks and swap old hunting stories.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/126.

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Ep 125 - John Hunter: Whitetail, Elk and Everything in Between

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Pro angler and GoWild CSO, John Hunter, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss the differences between whitetail and elk hunting, techniques and essential gear for along with what to expect from your first whitetail hunt, the differences between expectation and reality when it comes to elk hunting and tips for a whitetail hunter heading out on their first elk hunt.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/125.

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CCB - Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) Intro

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 13:27:00 -0000

Joel Webster of Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 124 - Lessons Learned From a Successfully Unsuccessful Elk Hunt

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

On his drive back home from Montana, Sam recaps his 2019 fall elk season. In this episode, he covers lessons he’s learned in his time hunting, discusses his thoughts and feelings about the hunt and tells a story or two about his time in the field.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/124.

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BONUS - Sam on Restless Native Ep 77

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

In this bonus episode, Sam joins Brad Luttrell on the Restless Native podcast.

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CCB - 2% for Conservation Intro

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Kalvyn Herring of 2% for Conservation joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 123 - Jeff Moran: Pulling Elk from the Depths of Hell

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jeff Moran, co-founder of Built4theHunt, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative to talk about his recent epic elk hunt. In this episode, they discuss Jeff’s inability to enjoy the outdoors without a goal, the horrors of rifle season on public land, putting in the time to increase your success, packing in and out of some of the roughest elk country in the West, what you envision never quite lining up with reality and the key factors that lead to his success. They also discuss founding Built4theHunt, an unbiased supplement and fitness platform for the outdoorsman, along with understanding your goals and what goes into your body.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/123.

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CCB - National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Intro

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jason Tarwater of National Wild Turkey Federation joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 122 - Jack Donovan: The Decline of Masculinity and The Way of Men

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jack Donovan, author of The Way of Men, sits down with Sam on the Wild Initiative to discuss masculinity. In this episode, they discuss examining the definitions of masculinity through history and various cultures, how masculinity can only be defined by men, the difference between being a good man and being good at being a man, testing yourself against other men, craving elements of danger in our lives, conserving masculine spaces and time just for the guys and the association between masculinity and violence. Also in this episode, they discuss Jack preparing to go on his first-ever hunt up in Oregon, the steps he’s taking to prepare and the difficulties he’s encountering along the way.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/122.

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CCB - Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Intro

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Ty Stubblefield of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 121 - Ryan & Hillary Lampers: Living Healthy, Fulfilling Lives as Hunters and Humans

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Ryan Lampers, the StHealthy Hunter, and "Doc" Hillary Lampers of Hunt Harvest Health join Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss the idea behind Hunt Harvest Health, staying healthy in order to chase your passions until you're old an gray, hunters leading the charge for healthy eating, the hard work and conditioning required for backcountry hunting and things hunters can focus on to begin improving their health and readiness. Also, in this episode, they discuss launching Western Hunting Summit 2020, investing in yourself and key ways to increase your consistency and success as a hunter.

Take advantage of the lowest price available. Make sure you pick up your limited-time presale passes for Western Hunting Summit 2020 starting Friday, October 18, 2019 at 10am MT at westernhuntingsummit.com.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/121.

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CCB - Wild Sheep Foundation Intro

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Gray N. Thornton of Wild Sheep Foundation joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 120 - Katie Burgert: Everything You Wanted to Know About Fly Fishing, But Didn't Know to Ask

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Katie Burgert of Fish Untamed joins Sam on the Wild Initiative to provide a beginner’s guide to fly fishing. In this episode they cover, figuring out the right questions to ask, finding new terms in videos and podcasts, why you would fly fish instead of spin fishing, essential fly fishing gear, learning to cast, different fly fishing techniques, different flies and their purposes and launching the Fish Untamed Podcast as part of The Wild Initiative Network.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/120.

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CCB - Ducks Unlimited Intro

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 22:27:00 -0000

Mike Brasher of Ducks Unlimited joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break.

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Ep 119 - Brandon Butler: Just Buying a License Isn't Enough

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Brandon Butler joins Sam on The Wild Initiative at the Professional Outdoor Media Association Conference in Wichita, KS. In this episode, they discuss learning from the scary experiences of our youth, discovering and taking on the challenge of becoming an outdoor writer, how to follow your passion to get into the outdoor industry, working as a conservation lobbyist in the state capital, the workings of Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson, how to choose conservation organizations to support, hunting being a privilege and not a right and the exciting conservation steps made by Roeslein Alternative Energy.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/119.

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CCB - Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) Intro

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Nick Pinizzotto, President and CEO of National Deer Alliance (NDA), joins Sam on today's Conservation Coffee Break to introduce you to NDA and discuss some of the more pressing issues facing deer in North America. Learn more at thewildinitiative.com/conservation.

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Ep 118 - Remi Adeleke: Navy SEAL, Author, Actor... Transformed

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Remi Adeleke, former Navy SEAL, actor, public speaker and author of Transformed, joins Sam on The Wild Initiative. In this episode, they discuss his transition from African royalty to the streets of the Bronx and the struggles of his upbringing, the incredible service done for him by his Navy Recruiter, working to join the SEALs regardless of his lack of qualifications and deeply rooting yourself in your “why” so you can face adversity without giving in.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/118.

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CCB - National Deer Alliance Intro

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

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Ep 117 - Tom Opre: Don't be the Antichrist of Wildlife Conservation

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Tom Opre, of the Shepherds of Wildlife Society, sits down with Sam at the 2019 POMA Conference in Wichita, KS. In this episode, they discuss historical market-hunting and the destruction of wildlife habitat, the superiority of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, restoration of African wildlife, how to be the “antichrist” of wildlife conservation, Cecil and the reality of what happens to old lions, his founding of the Shepherds of Wildlife Society and why there’s nothing happy about a Happy Meal.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/117.

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Ep 116 - Finding Your Way into the Backcountry with Dustin Wittwer and Corey Beckendorf of Team Backcountry

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Dustin Wittwer and Corey Beckendorf of Team Backcountry sit down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to catch up after almost 100 episodes. In this podcast, which includes some surprise guest appearances, they discuss big life changes over the past few years, building careers with companies in the hunting industry, uprooting your family to find better hunting opportunities, the benefits of hunting the same areas year after year, the exact GPS coordinates to the Team Backcountry honey holes and tips for planning your tag application strategy.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/116.

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Ep 115 - Solving the World’s Problems, One Hunt at a Time with Kristy Titus

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Kristy Titus returns to Living Country in the City to catch up after two years. In this podcast they discuss living for those ultimate adventure backpack hunts, the Pursue the Wild elk call line, learning skills to build confidence in the backcountry, training how you hunt, people's disconnect on how meat gets to our table, tactics for dealing with anti-hunters, being a mentor, and focusing on our narrative as hunters.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/115.

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Ep 114 - Pushing the Envelope on Every Hunt with James Hardesty and Dana Davison

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 10:00:00 -0000

James Hardesty and Dana Davison sit down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City. We discuss the difference between preservation and conservation, key lessons learned from their time hunting, the excitement of being part of someone else’s success. We also discuss tips for a first-time elk hunter to prepare both mentally and physically for their first hunt, pack animal comparisons and pushing your limits with every trip to develop mental toughness.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/114.

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Ep 113 - Engaging Youth in the Outdoors with Jackson Hartley and Hunter Dahl of YoungHuntr

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jackson Hartley and Hunter Dahl of YoungHuntr sit down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to talk about helping other youth hunters document their experiences, the grind of promotion on social media, the opportunities and challenges youth face when getting into the outdoors, the pain of switching from youth tags to adult tags and creating a supportive community for youth to share their hunting photos.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/113.

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Ep 112 - Hunting the Hell Out of California with Spencer Kirksey

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000

The Legend, Spencer Kirksey sits down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to talk about starting to really hunt as an adult, connecting with others through social media to improve your hunting experience, the positives and negatives of hunting in California, lessons he wish he’d learned when he first started hunting and his experiences hunting and harvesting his first deer on public land just outside of Los Angeles.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/112.

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Ep 111 - Hunting YOUR Hunt with Jordan Budd and Jordan Adams

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0000

Jordan Budd and Jordan Adams sit down with Living Country in the City to talk things new hunters should focus on when getting into the outdoors, finding what drives you, how to keep hunting from being a completely hellish ordeal, how to get good deals on gear and how to go about building your gear kit and investing in yourself to learn the skills required for hunting.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/111.

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Ep 110 - Hunting is an Expensive Pain in the A** with Jacob Herman, Ali Spika and Dr. Brooks Tiller

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 07:01:00 -0000

Jacob Herman, Ali Spika and Dr. Brooks Tiller sit down with Living Country in the City to to discuss the issues standing in the way of making hunting more available to the weekend warrior, overpopulation of deer in the east, mentorship programs, pricing people out of hunting and tags being too expensive to encourage new hunters, proper deer herd management, hunting no longer being a tribal activity and how we’re losing the “path” of the hunt.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/110.

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Ep 109 - Functionally Fit for Hunting with Dr. Brooks Tiller, Jacob Herman and Ali Spika

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Dr. Brooks Tiller, Jacob Herman and Ali Spika sit down with Living Country in the City to talk about how to create a fitness plan for your hunt. In this episode the discuss learning to move well before increasing intensity, focusing on progress rather than comparisons, workouts that don’t require a gym, diet as part of fitness, altitude issues and the efficacy of training masks and investing in yourself so you can enjoy your passions long into the future.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/109.

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Ep 108 - Protecting our Hunting Traditions from Being Going, Going, GONE with John Bair, VP of Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

John Bair, VP of Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife, sits down with Living Country in the City to discuss some of the biggest challenges facing hunters and our wildlife. In this episode the talk about not becoming a “single issue sportsman” by setting aside our personal interests for the sake of hunting, his passion for coyote and predator hunting, the heritage of trapping, appreciating the good days because of the bad and tips on choosing a location for a coyote stand.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/108.

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Ep 107 - High on Bowhunting with Justus Nielsen of Rocky Mountain Ramblers

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Justus Neilsen of Rocky Mountain Ramblers joins Living Country in the City to talk about the excitement of bowhunting. In this episode they discuss getting his first hater, “normal” versus “weird” hunts, working at No Limits Archery, all about Rocky Mountain Ramblers and the story of his Alaskan bear hunt with his buddy Caleb.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/107.

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Ep 106 - Hunting and Hiking Boot Selection Redux with Corey Beckendorf of Crispi

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Corey Beckendorf of Crispi sits down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to talk about the history of Crispi. In this episode they discuss what differentiates Crispi from other boot manufacturers, factors to consider when deciding on a boot, the diversity of the Crispi lineup, boot options for different styles of hunts, the pros and cons of different boot features and common questions asked when selecting a boot.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/106.

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Ep 105 - Hard Work, Whiskey, Wine, Failure and Success with Scott Daniels and Travis Greenwood of Team Bad Decision

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Travis Greenwood and Scott Daniels of Team Bad Decision hop on the line with Living Country in the City to discuss the origination of their name and the book. In this episode they discuss their definition of “backcountry”, transparency and authenticity in storytelling, now downplaying your mistakes, the importance of developing mental toughness and how hunting has changed their lives.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/105.

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Ep 104 - Just Going for It: Living Country in the City on the Eastmans’ Elevated Podcast with Brian Barney

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Brian Barney from the Eastmans’ Elevated Podcast interviews Living Country in the City, discussing podcasting. In this episode they talk about taking advantage of what’s around you and getting out hunting without overthinking logistics, hunting turkey in pajama pants, focusing on priorities, getting hangry and planning meals for hunts, pushing beyond your limits to develop your mental toughness and how hunting affects and improves other aspects of your life.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/104.

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Ep 103 - Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone with Kimmi Greentree

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Kimmi Greentree sits down with Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City to talk about growing up as a city girl. In this episode, they discuss her interest in hunting being sparked by a desire to spend more time with Adam, not knowing your true capabilities until you step outside your comfort zone, her first hunt and harvest, how life has changed with this new notoriety and her advice for someone looking to get into hunting with their significant other.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/103.

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Ep 102 - John Stallone on Building a Unified Front for the Defense of Hunting

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000

John Stallone of Interviews with the Hunting Masters joins Living Country in the City to discuss his Hunter Up initiative. In this episode they discuss fighting for those outside of your niche, presenting a united front in the fight to preserve hunting, portrayals of hunters in the media, voting hunting first, how to beat the Facebook algorithm and educating others to bring them into the hunting community.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/102.

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Ep 101 - From Slinging Dope to Flinging Arrows with Brandon Waddell of Wilderness Attitude and Mountain Archery Fest

Tue, 28 May 2019 13:00:00 -0000

Brandon Waddell of the Wilderness Attitude Podcast and Mountain Archery Fest joins Living Country in the City to talk about his terrible first experience with hunting and how his perception has changed. In this episode, they talk about the satisfaction of teaching his children to hunt and watching them succeed, some of the more sordid details of his past and the person he used to be, the joy of providing for our families, starting Wilderness Attitude and the meaning behind it and all about the exciting new Mountain Archery Festival.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/101.

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Ep 100 - Interview with a Non-Hunter: Living Country in the City Podcast Editor, Daniel Walters

Mon, 20 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Living Country in the City summarizes over two years of podcasting and makes a big announcement about the brand. Daniel Walters, the editor of Living Country in the City, also joins the podcast to discuss his impressions of hunters prior to the podcast and how that's changed, concepts he’s learned, his favorite episodes, things he’s interested in learning about, the behind-the-scenes of Living Country in the City and advice for new hunters.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/100.

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Ep 99 - Dave Brinker: Lessons Learned from Hunting and Music

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Dave Brinker joins Living Country in the City to talk about moving on from a long career with Sitka to transition into singing and songwriting. In this episode, they discuss the process and challenges of crowdfunding and releasing his first album, the parallels between hunting and releasing music, setting realistic measures of success, seeking people to learn from, asking the “dumb” questions and embracing your misses.

See more on the show notes page at thewildintiative.com/99.

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Ep 98 - PNW to Coues Country with Shannon Mobbs and Cory Ford of Angry Spike Productions

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Shannon Mobbs and Cory Ford of Angry Spike Productions join Living Country in the City at Hunt Expo to talk about the differences between chasing elk in the PNW and Coues deer in southern Arizona, pulling cactus out of unfortunate places, the importance and struggles of heavy glassing, why Walmart sucks the enjoyment of observing rutting bucks, the best way to prepare wild game, hunting in the grocery store and all about lion attacks. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/98.

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Ep 97 - Getting Your Start in Hunting and Shooting with Adam Weatherby of Weatherby, Inc.

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Adam Weatherby of Weatherby, Inc. sits down with Living Country in the City to talk about considerations when selecting your first hunting rifle. In this episode he discusses the origins of Weatherby in Southern California, the different models across the brand, general considerations when planning your first hunt, the obstacles to starting hunting from scratch, women outshooting men, learning how to sight in a rifle and practicing your shooting in hunting situations.

See the show notes page at thewildintiative.com/97.

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Ep 96 - Conservation Conversation with Dave Beronio of Outback Outdoors

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Dave Beronio (a.k.a Hollywood Dave) of Outback Outdoors joins Living Country in the City to talk about immersing yourself in the outdoors. In this episode they discuss volunteering with conservation organizations or your local fish and game department, finding commonalities with the opposition, planning your draws, fitness in the backcountry, what to look for in a hunting guide and setting a good example as hunters by being educated about conservation.

See the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/96.

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Ep 95 - Real and Raw Hunting with Luke Caudillo of Gladiators Unleashed

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Luke Caudillo of Gladiators Unleashed joins Living Country in the City at the International Sportsman’s Expo to talk about starting the show. In this episode, they discuss hunting being a reason to stay in fighting shape, motivation and beating yourself up in the backcountry, working a lot harder when the camera is on, being raw and honest with your hunting, learning from “bad” hunting experiences and staying accountable making ethical hunting decisions.

See the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/95.

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Ep 94 - Searching for the Story Behind the Kill with Jade Helmich of Full Draw Film Tour

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Jade Helmich of Full Draw Film Tour joins Living Country in the City to talk about the tour and its history. In this episode he discusses the types of films in the tour, raising money for non-profits like The Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation, film submission requirements and selection criteria, balancing storytelling with film quality, how to choose filmmaking gear and being passionate about all parts of the hunt.

See the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/94.

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Ep 93 - Creating Your Own Opportunity with Wildlife Photographer, Tony Bynum

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Wildlife Photographer, Tony Bynum, joins Living Country in the City to talk about learning to jump on incredible opportunities when they present themselves as well as creating your own opportunities. In this episode, he discusses his love of photography and its importance in conservation, tattoos and their meanings and training your mind for hunting and the outdoors in unique ways.

See the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/93.

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Ep 92 - Talkin’ Turkey with Locke Wheeler of T3 Game Calls and The Progression Series

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Locker Wheeler of T3 Game Calls and The Progression Series joins Living Country in the City to talk turkey about… well… turkey. We cover what makes turkey hunting so appealing, the basics and definitions of turkey hunting, types of turkey sounds and their meanings and uses, essential gear, shot placement and we walk step-by-step through a typical turkey hunting scenario.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/92.

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Ep 91 - So You Think You Want to Start a Hunting Brand with Joel Pilcher

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Joel Pilcher gets introspective with Living Country in the City to talk about getting started drawing wildlife for a living, designing branding and logos for companies, “making a living” in the hunting industry, being unique and more than just a logo, hunting for fun versus hunting for work and deciding if you REALLY want to start your own hunting brand. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/91.

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Ep 90 - Changing the Hunting Narrative with Tyler Sharp and Brad Neathery of Modern Huntsman

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Modern Huntsman Co-Founders, Tyler Sharp and Brad Neathery, join Living Country in the City to discuss the publication, misinformation between hunter and non-hunters as well as dissension among hunters, awareness of how your content is perceived by varied audiences, adjusting messaging to encourage productive conversations, the savage nature of wildlife, developing a connection to the meat you consume and hunting’s “PR problem”. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/90.

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Ep 89 - Tips on Mule Deer and Life with Marc “Muley Slayer” Smith

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Marc “Muley Slayer” Smith joins Living Country in the City to talk about why he loves hunting mule deer, avoiding cold weather, rifle versus archery, how to get started hunting muleys, sharing the mountain and sharing core beliefs, important gear to invest in, shooting “consolation bucks”, the tao of hunting industry success, celebrating mediocrity in the fullest and how to be successful in both hunting and life. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/89.

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Ep 88 - You took Hunters Ed… Now What? Lt. Alan Gregory of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Lt. Alan Gregory of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife joins Living County in the City to talk about the Advanced Hunter Education program, predator hunting in CA, filling in the knowledge gaps for the adult onset hunter, the difference between hands-on experience and watching a YouTube video, the benefits of processing your own meat, the stigma of being a Californian, special hunt offerings in CA and courses offered in the program. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/88.

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Ep 87 - Sam Soholt: Making a Drive for Public Lands

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Sam Soholt joins Living Country in the City to talk about jumping into hunting with both feet, needing a homemade 2x4 truck bed extender for mass amounts of gear, relaxing on hunts, extreme nature walking, photographing Joe Rogan, buying a school bus as a billboard to advocate for public lands and why public lands are so important and how they’re in danger.

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Ep 86 - Callin’ Coyotes with Garrett Johnson, the Brush Wolf Hunter

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Garrett Johnson, the Brush Wolf Hunter, joins Living County in the City to talk about the ethics of predator hunting, tips for calling coyotes, decoy dogs, calling in your underwear, pet coyote pups, rookie mistakes and the strategy of calling coyotes as a giant rabbit.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/86.

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Ep 85 - Rachel Carrie: Examining Time Honored Traditions with a Modern Lens

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Living Country in the City calls all the way across the pond to the UK to talk with Rachel Carrie about the traditions of hunting in England, running hawks and ferrets with her father, hunting as an upper-class “gentlemen’s” sport, dealing with the antis and changing the perspective of a PETA model, the expansion of shooting sports in the UK and the differences between hunting in the US and the UK. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/85.

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Ep 84 - Boze on Bears with Douglas Boze, author of The Ultimate Guide to Black Bear Hunting

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Living Country in the City hops on the line with Doug Boze, author of The Ultimate Guide to Black Bear Hunting to talk about hunting black bears without bait or dogs, learning about bear sign, predator calling for bear, ground shrinkage, the allure and ethics of predator hunting, following wounded bears into thick brush and judging boars versus sows. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/84.

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Ep 83 - Waiting Out the Storm: Elk Hunting with Kelvin Eldridge of Crooked Wood Pack Llamas

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Kelvin Eldridge of Crooked Wood Pack Llamas joins Sam on Living Country in the City during their Colorado elk hunt to talk about struggling through the thin air in the Colorado “medium country”, the difference between coyote howls and elk bugles, favorite Mountain House flavors, best ways to prepare grouse in the backcountry, figuring out how to hunt silent and invisible elk, wrestling llamas across streams and finally spotting elk after a long time of nothing.

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Ep 82 - Highway Ramblings: An Arizona Hunting Recap

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Living Country in the City throws on the headset solo to look back on his Arizona summer hunt with Hunt 3A and talk about thoughts and experiences from the past several weeks. See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/82.

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Ep 81 - The View from Above with Brandon Waddell of The Wilderness Attitude Podcast and “Muley” Matt Howell of The Mule Deer Hunter

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Living Country in the City sits down at the top of a 12,000 ft peak with Brandon Waddell of The Wilderness Attitude Podcast and "Muley" Matt Howell of The Mule Deer Hunter to talk about moose chairs, highlights from my epic road trip, kayaking through the La Plata mountains, adapting to achieve what we want, dry firing bows, meeting other folks in the hunting community and being okay with not knowing what's next.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/81.

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Ep 80 - Booze and Hunting Stories with Josh and Mason Deards and Jeremy Samuelson, the Arizona Hillbillies of Hunt 3A

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 07:00:00 -0000

The Arizona Hillbillies of Hunt 3A, Josh and Mason Deards and Jeremy Samuelson join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about Cheeto-loving raccoons, practical versus theoretical knowledge, lion attacks interrupting muley stalks, honor, respect, and appreciation as hunters, first-time experiences and overcoming fears, defining appropriate measures of success, sashaying while stalking and generally having some fun telling hunting stories.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/80.

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Ep 79 - Paul “ElkNut” Medel and the Ultimate Insider's Guide to Elk Vocalization

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 06:00:00 -0000

The "ElkNut," Paul Medel, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to unveil the secrets of elk vocalization in the ultimate insider's guide for successful elk hunting. As a seasoned elk hunter with 35 years of dedication to understanding elk vocalizations, Paul shares his wealth of knowledge and tips for effectively communicating with elk. Drawing parallels between elk and turkey hunting, Paul highlights the significance of instructional videos and tools in honing elk calling skills.

Navigating through the nuanced world of elk vocalizations, Paul divulges the intricacies of their language and how mastering it can spell the difference between a fruitful hunt and an empty expedition. From locating bugles to imitating breeding sequences, Paul delves into various vocalization techniques that can attract, engage, and call in bulls.

With a focus on preparation, physical conditioning, and affordable equipment, Paul encourages hunters to leverage resources like the ElkNut app, a comprehensive guide to elk vocalization. This app equips hunters with the knowledge to quickly learn and understand elk sounds, empowering them to interpret the emotions and behaviors of these majestic creatures.

For those embarking on an elk hunting journey, Paul's advice is invaluable. He underscores the importance of staying motivated, setting achievable goals, and pursuing passions. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hunter, Paul's insights into elk vocalization will undoubtedly elevate your hunting prowess.

Tune in to Living Country in the City and discover the world of elk vocalization through the expert lens of the 'ElkNut.' Whether you're an avid hunter or a curious enthusiast, this episode offers an unrivaled insight into the captivating realm of elk communication.

Guest Info

ElkNut

Mentioned in this Episode

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Ep 78 - Chasing the North American Super Slam with Lincoln Tapp of YoungWild

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Lincoln Tapp of YoungWild joins Sam on Living Country to talk about working his way through twenty-two of the twenty-nine animals in the North American Super Slam. On this episode, they discuss learning to deal with disappointment and difficult hunts, learning patience and building self confidence through hunting and how hunting can forge strong relationships with others.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/78.

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Ep 77 - Rihana Cary: From Vegan to Bowhunter

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Rihana Cary joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about starting her hunting career as a vegan, expectations versus reality on your first hunt, the pressure of cooking wild game, tree stand snuggies, hunting Australia and New Zealand with Jess Byers and making friends with bear cubs.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/77.

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Ep 76 - Size Matters with Keith Balfourd and Justin Spring of The Boone and Crockett Club

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Keith Balfourd, Director of Marketing and Justin Spring, Director of Big Game Records for The Boone and Crockett Club join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the founding of B&C. On this episode, they discuss The Era of Extinction, establishment of the term conservation, the stigma of the trophies and the conservation roots of trophy scoring, creation of decades worth of data sets to use in the management of game and the concept of fair chase hunting.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/76.

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Ep 75 - Coffee, Cigarettes and Deer with Dennis Stokes of Initial Ascent

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Dennis Stokes of Initial Ascent joins Sam on Living Country in the City to chat about the intersection of dumb people and bears, hunting Arizona deer, killing deer with a coffee and cigarette in hand, starting Initial Ascent and building packs for the backcountry and some good ol' fashioned hunting talk.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/75.

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Ep 74 - Shoot Like an Alpha with Phil Mendoza and Braden Forsyth of No Limits Archery and Alpha Bowhunting and Brian Horton

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Phil Mendoza and Braden Forsyth of Alpha Bowhunting and Brian Horton of Fit4theHunt sit down at No Limits Archery in Denver, CO with Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about The Alpha Bowhunting Challenge, finding ways to train that closely replicate hunting situations, evaluating yourself to advance as a bowhunter, developing a structure and process for yourself while shooting, defining green light/red light situations and eliminating "maybe" and how the Alpha System applies to all types of hunting.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/74.

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Ep 73 - Get Fit to Hunt with Brian Horton, Rob Brezen and Cory Arola of Fit4theHunt

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Brian Horton, Rob Brezen and Cory Arola of FIt4theHunt join Sam on Living Country in the City sits to talk about how fitness and hunting ethics are intertwined. On this episode they discuss, "being a vegan" in the hunting industry, what plans and events the Fit4theHunt program offers, partnering with Phil Mendoza of Alpha Bowhunting, gauging the reality of your abilities in the field and how fitness can provide confidence in all aspects of your life.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/73.

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Ep 72 - Hunting, Tourettes and a Bunch of Other Bulls**t with Aron Snyder and Frank Peralta of Kifaru

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Aron Snyder and Frank Peralta join Sam on Living Country in the City at the Kifaru headquarters in Wheatridge, CO, for a candid and colorful conversation that takes a wild and often profane journey through a variety of topics. While covering everything from South Park and cursing on podcasts to dating in Los Angeles and CBD oil, this episode showcases the unique blend of humor, irreverence, and genuine insights that Aron and Frank bring to the table.

The discussion kicks off with a hilarious and unfiltered exploration of topics that range from the mundane to the outrageous. Aron and Frank share their thoughts on everything from California's superiority complex to navigating the dating scene in LA. The conversation takes unexpected turns, delving into subjects like road trips, CBD oil, and the joys of watching South Park, specifically the memorable Tourette's episode.

Despite the light-hearted banter, the episode also delves into more serious topics. The duo discusses the darker aspects of the hunting industry, highlighting issues like loyalty, fabrications, and the challenges faced by wildlife populations due to certain actions. With refreshing honesty, Aron and Frank address the controversies within the industry, reflecting on both the negative and positive interactions they've encountered.

Hunting experiences and partnerships take the spotlight as Aron and Frank share anecdotes about their hunting escapades. From mishaps with bows to unexpected encounters with elk and wolves, their stories are both entertaining and insightful, offering a glimpse into the world of avid hunters.

The conversation then shifts to more profound reflections on the outdoors and the hunting community. The speakers touch on the impact of technology on hunting and the importance of setting realistic goals. They emphasize the significance of enjoying the experience rather than striving for unrealistic expectations, and they advocate for responsible hunting practices that prioritize ethical considerations.

The episode concludes with a thought-provoking exploration of human-wildlife interactions. Aron and Frank recount instances of wildlife harassment and discuss the repercussions of reintroducing non-native wolves to certain areas, shedding light on the delicate balance of ecosystems and the complexities of conservation efforts.

In this lively and often unfiltered discussion, Aron Snyder and Frank Peralta bring their distinctive perspectives and candid personalities to the forefront. From humor to insights, they touch on a wide range of topics, leaving listeners entertained, informed, and, at times, surprised. So, if you're ready for an episode that combines laughs, deep reflections, and a bit of irreverence, this one's for you.

Guest Info

Aron Snyder

Frank Peralta

Kifarucast

Kifaru, Int'l

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Ep 71 - Leaving East for West with Weston Snyder

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Weston Snyder joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about leaving Pennsylvania to hunt the West. In this episode they discuss taking his first elk, the difficulty of returning to a tree stand after chasing bugles through the backcountry, what contributed to his successes, duck hunting in Utah, hunting exotics in Texas and New Mexico, gear upgrades and hunting celebrities.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/71.

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Ep 70 - Dropping the Hammer on Rosies with Shannon Mobbs and Cory Ford of Angry Spike Productions

Mon, 28 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Shannon Mobbs and Cory Ford of Angry Spike Productions join Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunt Expo to talk about the lifestyle of being a bowhunter. In this episode, they discuss the infinite varieties of difficult situations bowhunting places you get in, the differences between hunting Rosies and Rockies, calling the "non-vocal" Rosies, terrain and other signs to look for, looking for elk in the bedroom and not at the restaurant, playing the wind in the PNW and generally how folks overcomplicate elk calling.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/70.

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Ep 69 - Epic Hunts with Jason Carter of Epic Outdoors

Mon, 21 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Jason Carter of Epic Outdoors joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the services Epic Outdoors provides. On this episode, they talk about Alaskan brown bear hunts, the joy of hunting regardless of the animal pursued and planning for future hunts.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/69.

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Ep 68 - Lessons from the Desert Muley Whisperer, Chad Roberts

Mon, 14 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Chad Roberts joins Sam on Living Country in the City to about the rewards of really grinding it out to find and hunt deer all on your own. In this episode, they discuss the signs to look for when trying to locate desert muley habitat, keeping journals and photo logs to track important information and look for patterns, theoretical versus practical knowledge and common mistakes made by new hunters.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/68.

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Ep 67 - Lexi Quinn on Living a Life Beyond Limits

Mon, 07 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Lexi Quinn of Life Beyond Limits joins Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo to talk about the rewards of teaching yourself a skill. On this episode, they talk about working as a wildland fire fighter, the joy of sleeping out in the open, moving from tree stands to the backcountry, the importance of a cup of coffee in the morning and planning this year's draws and hunts.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/67.

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Ep 66 - Passing the Point of No Return with Brian and Jeff Cillessen of Beyond Rubicon

Wed, 02 May 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Brian and Jeff Cillessen of Beyond Rubicon join Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunt Expo to chat about how attitude affects your decisions in both life and hunting. In this episode, they talk about finding yourself in the outdoors, crossing your Rubicon daily, dumping your ex and dating her neighbor, catching the hunting "fever" and holding ourselves to a standard as hunters and storytellers.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/66.

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Ep 65 - Giving Just a Little Bit More for Wildlife and Wild Places with Jared Frasier of 2% for Conservation

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Jared Fraiser, Executive Director of 2% for Conservation joins Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunt Expo to talk about why Pittman Robertson isn't enough anymore. On this episode, they discus why we can't hide behind legislation and heroes, why Vin Diesel is such a great actor, money being useless without boots on the ground and how both business and individuals can become accredited by 2% for Conservation.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/65.

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Ep 64 - Elk Calling for the Complete Beginner with Corey Jacobsen and Jason Phelps

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Corey Jacobsen of Elk101 and Jason Phelps of Phelps Game Calls join Sam on The Wild Initiative for an elk-calling masterclass that promises to be both enlightening and exhilarating. Prepare to be immersed in the world of elk hunting as Corey and Jason share their expertise, guiding you through the intricacies of effective elk-calling techniques.

Discover the art and science behind elk calling as the discussion takes you from the fundamentals to the finer nuances. From developing muscle memory for precise calls to experimenting with diverse elk call variations, this episode uncovers the secrets of authentic elk calling that can only be honed through practice and dedication.

Explore the crucial role of latex types, tongue placement, and air pressure in creating the perfect elk call. Corey and Jason lift the curtain on the craftsmanship that goes into producing these essential tools, where handmade prowess meets sonic perfection. Whether you're a seasoned elk hunter or a novice eager to learn, this episode offers a wealth of insights that can elevate your elk-calling game.

The conversation steers into the realms of mastering cow calls, introducing bugle tubes, and merging science with art for pitch-perfect imitations of elk sounds. Corey's journey to create a universal elk call, capable of producing both delicate cow calls and commanding bugles, adds an element of innovation to the mix.

Join Corey Jacobsen and Jason Phelps as they unravel the tapestry of elk calling, weaving together tradition, technique, innovation, and a message of unity within the hunting industry. Whether you're an ardent hunter or simply intrigued by the allure of the wild, this episode promises an unforgettable exploration of elk calling that transcends competition and fosters a sense of unity within the hunting community. Tune in to embark on this auditory journey into the heart of the elk-hunting world.

Guest Info

Corey Jacobsen

Elk101

Jason Phelps/Phelps Game Calls

Mentioned in this Episode

Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls

—

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Ep 63 - Getting Your Guided Hunt for Free with Josh Corbin of Zero Guide Fees

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Josh Corbin of Antler Trader and Zero Guide Fees joins Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunt Expo with to talk about making guided hunts more accessible to everyone. On this episode, they talk about bringing more business to outfitters, teaching Shedcrazy everything he knows and the idiocy of shed hunting seasons.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/63.

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Ep 62 - Straight Outta Tinseltown with Freddy Harteis, The Hollywood Hunter

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Freddy Harteis, the Hollywood Hunter, sits down all the way out in Utah at the Western Hunt Expo with Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about merging city and country in an effort to change people's perception of hunters. On this episode, they discuss raising funds for conservation, positive and negative reactions in social situations to him as a hunter, the controversy over African big game hunting and the complexity of hunting beyond just meat versus trophies.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/62.

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Ep 61 - The Highs and Lows of Texas Hog Hunting with Jessica Taylor Byers

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Jessica Taylor Byers of FollowHerArrow joins Sam on Living Country in the City after a week of hog hunting. In this episode, they recap the week and talk about what makes hog hunting perfect newbies, thinking you're about to be eaten by coyotes, the excitement of releasing on your first animal and the heartbreak of losing it, my scientific process of selecting a blind, bouncing back from missed shots and failed stalks and the lessons learned from the trip.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/61.

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Ep 60 - Jacine Jadresko on Fighting Big Fish and Handling the Hate

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Jacine Jadreško joins Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo to talk about hunting all over the world. In this episode, they discuss her favorite hunts, The Women Who Kill Lions documentary, boyfriends with sensitive stomachs, dealing with anti-hunter backlash and her five hour fight with a giant marlin.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/60.

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Ep 59 - Drawing Tags and Building Points with Lorenzo Sartini and Brady Miller of GoHunt

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 07:00:00 -0000

Lorenzo Sartini and Brady Miller join Sam on Living Country in the City at the Western Hunt Expo in the GoHunt booth to talk about the wide variety of hunting opportunities available in the west. In this episode, they discuss where to start when you don't know anything, the inconsistency of tag draws and regulations between states, the three main types of tag draws, deciding what's most important to you, point building strategies and what makes GoHunt such a powerful tool.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/59.

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Ep 58 - BHA: The Sportsman's Voice for Our Public Lands and Waters with Land Tawney, President/CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0000

and Tawney, President and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, joins Living Country in the City to talk about the founding of BHA, the importance of our public lands and waters, BHA's advocacy at the local, state and federal levels, Justin TImberlake wearing camo, opposition to public land access, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/58.

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Ep 57 - Hashtag Tradlife: South Cox on Trad Bow Hunting

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000

South Cox of Stalker Stickbows and The Western Bowhunter Podcast joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about his vegetarian hippie commune upbringing in California. On this episode they discuss starting Stalker Stickbows, hunting California Blacktails, considerations when deciding whether to shoot a trad bow, common issues when first starting with a trad bow, longbows versus recurves and investing in yourself as a hunter.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/57.

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Ep 56 - Wild About Hunting with Brad Luttrell of GoWild

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Brad Luttrell, co-founder of the GoWild app, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about what makes GoWild unique. On this episode, they discuss being discouraged from posting about hunting on social media, setting small goals to build something great, trophy scoring being inclusive of a lot more than antler size, censoring content, wild game recipes, saving Sage Wisdom (#savethesage) and how storytelling changes when posting on different platforms.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/56.

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Ep 55 - Hunting California with Rob Smiley of Reelfowl Outdoors and Joey Ploshay of California Hunting Addiction

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Rob Smiley of Reelfowl Outdoors and Joey Ploshay of California Hunting Addiction joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about hunting and fishing in California. In this episode, they talk about the endless opportunities and variety available for the California hunter and angler, hunting waterfowl and upland game with dogs, dealing with the death threats, and both the positive and negative aspects of hunting in California.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/55.

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Ep 54 - Out of the Cage and Into the Backcountry with Chad "Money" Mendes

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Chad "Money" Mendes, fellow Californian, UFC fighter and hunting and fishing guide, joins Sam on Living Country in the City in the Finz & Featherz booth at the Sacramento International Sportsman's Expo to talk about finding recipes for using wild game as lean clean fuel for training. On this episode, they discuss the allure of hunting with a bow, reactions to him being a hunter, sharing wild game with others, the variety of hunting available in CA and founding Finz & Featherz Guides.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/54.

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Ep 53 - SKRE Extreme Mountain Gear with Mike Nielson and Ben "Shedcrazy" Dettamanti

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Mike Nielson of SKRE Gear and Ben "Shedcrazy" Dettamanti join Sam on Living Country in the City at the International Sportsman's Expo in Sacramento, CA to talk about the origins of SKRE. On this episode, they discuss the science and inspiration behind the original Mountain Stealth and newly released Summit patterns, favorite pieces of gear for various situations, upcoming products in the SKRE lineup and how high performance hunting gear can still be reasonably priced.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/53.

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Ep 52 - Bold Women Creating Fresh Tracks for Conservation: Artemis Sportswomen

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Tammy Bashore, Sara Domek, Kathy Hadley, and Jessi Johnson of Artemis, the Sportswomen's arm of the NWF join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about how women are represented in the hunting/angling world. In this episode they discuss women providing a distinctive, disruptive, and disarming voice for conservation, inspiring women to step up and be leaders in conservation, the three pillars that Artemis is built on, and plans for the future of Artemis.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/52.

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Ep 51 - Other Things to Not Do in the Backcountry: Lessons from my First Trip Hunting Desert Muleys

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000

In a change of pace, Living Country in the City records a quick solo podcast on his trip home from Arizona to recap and discuss lessons learned from his first time ever hunting late season desert mule deer.

See more on the show nots page at livingcountryinthecity.com/51.

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Ep 50 - Genuine Storytelling with Trevon Stoltzfus of Outback Outdoors

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000

Trevon Stoltzfus of Outback Outdoors joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about storytelling versus slaughterfests, the best films not always being the best from a technical perspective, accessibility of media changing the stories we tell, decreasing attention spans, the appropriateness of grip n' grin photos and terrible reenactments of kill shots.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/50.

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Ep 49 - Hunting, Conservation and Family with "Muley" Matt Howell of The Mule Deer Hunter

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 08:00:00 -0000

"Muley" Matt Howell of The Mule Deer Hunter joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk showing respect for animals by remembering the hunt, hunting with his boys and bringing kids into the outdoors, the power of a good pack, "hunting family reunions" at industry events, putting in your time to be prepared for hunts and working for conservation on both local and national levels.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/49.

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Ep 48 - Chasing Passions and Texas Whitetail with Hunting Product Guru, Justin Wegner

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Justin Wegner, Hunting Product Guru, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about chasing Texas whitetail as a kid, getting his start in the hunting industry by reviewing cars, persistence when chasing your passions, creating a place for yourself in the hunting industry and his essential gear for hunting whitetail.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/48.

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Ep 47 - Going Solo in the Backcountry with Tim Burnett of SOLO HNTR

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Tim Burnett, of SOLO HNTR, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about influencing others to get into the outdoors, trying to piss off the fewest people possible, his hunting heroes, lots of followers not equaling quality content, the benefits and downsides of hunting solo, focusing on positivity, essential gear and people getting butthurt when he's not hunting alone 100% of the time.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/47.

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Ep 46 - Christmas for Families in Need: Sheds for Santa with Sawyer Peacock

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Sawyer Peacock joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about his non-profit organization, Sheds for Santa, how it got started, expanding from solely collecting sheds, finding families in need, helping families all over the United States, the various different ways to help out as well as a few tips for getting in to photographing your hunts.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/46.

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Ep 45 - More Arizona Hunting Tips with John Stallone, Host of Interviews with the Hunting Masters

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000

John Stallone, Host of Interviews with the Hunting Masters, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about tips and tactics for Arizona deer hunting. On this episode, they discuss differences between Coues and Muley behavior, gear recommendations, how to kill lots of not quite trophy-sized animals, bowhunting for predators as a way to hone his hunting skills in the offseason, learning from others' mistakes and how much he absolutely HATES not filling tags.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/45.

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Ep 44 - Stepping Up Your Hunting and Wild Game Prep with Ber Yang of Pure Trophies

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Ber Yang of Pure Trophies joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about growing up learning woodsmanship skills and how to live off the land in Laos, moving to Montana after the Vietnam war, bowhunting with his four brothers, Hmong wild game recipes, being an unexpected face in the woods and using every part of the animal.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/44.

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Ep 43 - Hunt of a Lifetime with Donnie Drake

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Donnie Drake of Elk101, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about his recent hunt with The Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation. On this episode, they discuss improving as a hunter by learning from your hunting partners, qualities to look for in a hunting partner, the Land of the Free Project, finding antelope in strange places, and the excitement over planning tag applications for next year.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/43.

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Ep 42 - Putting Down Monster Bulls with Ryan Carter of DC Outfitters

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 08:00:00 -0000

Ryan Carter of DC Outfitters joins Sam on Living Country in the City to recap the archery elk season and talk about passing big bulls to put down the giants, chasing the older age class, scoring bulls, not measuring success by inches, and picking fights with punk kids on the Internet.

See the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/42.

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Ep 41 - All Things Coues Deer with Jay Scott

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jay Scott, host of the Jay Scott Outdoors Podcast, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk all about what makes Coues deer unique, the best opportunities for hunting Coues, the Muley and Coues rut times, Coues behavior, essential gear, glassing methods and more!

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/41.

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Ep 40 - Hunting Texas with Cable Smith, Host of the Lone Star Outdoor Show

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Cable Smith, host of the Lone Star Outdoor Show joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about hunting opportunities and the history of exotics in Texas, Shiner versus Lone Star beers, taking responsibility for the management of wildlife, good ol' boy country music, learning from your failures, turkey, elk and mule deer hunting, the decline of waterfowling, transparency in how you present yourself as a hunter and much more!

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/40.

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Ep 39 - Fur, Feathers and Scales: Hunting and Fishing with Brett Cannon

Wed, 18 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Brett Cannon, hunter and deep-sea angler extraordinaire, hops on the line with Living Country in the City.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/39.

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Ep 38 - Avoiding Disaster in the Backcountry: A Recap of My Idaho Elk Hunt with Clayton Marxer, the Adventure Cowboy

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Clayton Marxer, the Adventure Cowboy joins Sam on Living Country in the City to recap my Idaho Elk Hunt, examine some of the decisions I made and lessons I learned and discuss the realities of e-scouting vs boots on the ground, always having a backup plan, prep and training and gear selection.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/38.

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Ep 37 - Jules McQueen: Squirrel Whisperer, Poop Connoisseur and Self-Taught Hunter

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jules McQueen, outdoor writer and television host, conservationist and avid self-taught hunter joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about teaching herself to hunt from books and magazines, her work with various companies in the outdoor industry, sharing animal poop photos with friends, handling squirrel emergencies, ladies hunts and more!

See the show notes page at http://livingcountry.us/37.

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Ep 36 - From Whitetail Woods to Backcountry Bulls with Shawn Luchtel of Heartland Bowhunter

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Shawn Luchtell of Heartland Bowhunter joins Sam on Living Country in the City to discuss the differences between hunting the Midwest and the Western high country, how hunting can make facing everyday challenges less daunting, every sound in the woods sounding like a deer, the excitement of a first hunt versus a 100th and some of his meaningful hunts.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/36.

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Ep 35 - Adventure Hunting with Rogue Dude, Cory Staniforth

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Cory Staniforth of Rogue Dude joins Sam on Living Country in the City. In this episode they talk about what he calls "adventure hunting", using every part of the animals he hunts, creating your own luck through preparation, how seasons and weather affect different portions of antler growth, hunting bear in the most remote parts of Prince of Wales Island and chasing crazy fantasy creatures in Kyrgyzstan.

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/35.

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Ep 34 - Speed Goat Shenanigans and More with Sadie Kennel

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Sadie Kennel, Women’s Ambassador for Sitka Gear, Brand Ambassador for Swarovski Optik and Idaho Regional Rep for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers joins Sam on Living Country in the City. In this episode they discuss the ups and downs of hunting pronghorn, the goofy names hunters have for different animals, why badgers and helicopters suck and Idaho being a terrible hunting spot (don’t go there).

See more on the show notes page at thewildinitiative.com/34.

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Ep 33 - Hunting Tips and Tactics for Your Trip to Elk Camp with Cody Rich of The Rich Outdoors Podcast

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Cody Rich of The Rich Outdoors Podcast joins Sam on Living Country in the City for a Q&A session on elk hunting tips and tactics for your trip to elk camp. In this episode, we cover the excitement and fear surrounding the first hunt, struggles of hunting solo versus with a partner, measuring success and dealing with self-doubt, enjoying the moments that suck because they make the best stories, viewing each hunt as a challenge and test, sacrificing hunting time to podcast, dealing with pressured elk, how long to stay in an area when you’re not finding elk, dealing with an overactive gag reflex, calling skill, strategy and frequency, playing the wind, dealing with scent, packing out, field care of meat, dealing with lions, wolves and bears (oh my), and much more!

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/33.

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Ep 32 - Traditional Archery with Patricia Gonsalves, Founder of Lykopis Archery and Archery Tech for DC's "Arrow"

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Patricia Gonsalves, Founder and Lead Instructor of Lykopis Archery, Archery Tech, and Trainer for DC’s TV Shows “Arrow”, “Flash” and “Legends of Tomorrow” joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about her childhood obsession with archery, training actors and stuntmen, traveling the world to learn from world archers, misconceptions about bow types, teaching the “four disciplines” of archery and characteristics of different traditional or instinctual bows.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/32.

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Ep 31 - Hunting Advice and Inspiration from Jim Shockey

Sat, 26 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jim Shockey joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about being a born-and-raised hunter, learning to enjoy every aspect of the hunt, his personal record for death threats, combating hate towards hunters, his personal heroes and inspirations for hunting, redefining the media's hateful caricatures of hunters, and what he hopes for his personal legacy.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/31.

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Ep 30 - Taking Wild Game from Field to Plate with Jeremiah Doughty

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 08:50:00 -0000

Jeremiah Doughty of From Field to Plate joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk hunting for food, figuring out how to make a great tasting dish from any animal, how field prep and other variables affect the taste of your meat, testicles, creating a tight-knit SoCal hunting community, what’s wrong with the word “gamey” and using every part of the animal from the esophagus to absolutely everything else.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/30.

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Ep 29 - Bowhunting Goodies with Jason Feldt of Bowhunter Box Club

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jason Feldt of Bowhunter Box Club joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about how quickly bowhunting can turn into an obsession, experimenting with different concepts to build a box club catering to bowhunters, cursing himself by passing on an axis doe, fun and unique products you may have never known you wanted and what you get with the box club subscriptions and the VIP Pass-Through Club.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/29.

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Ep 28 - Backcountry Brewing with Tony Burlison of Dark Timber Coffee Co.

Sat, 05 Aug 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Tony Burlison of Dark Timber Coffee Co joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about giving back to conservation causes, the differences in drinking a quality coffee, their backcountry Ascent Packs, why there’s no such thing as top-shelf instant coffee and naming their newest roast.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/28.

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Ep 27 - Scout to Hunt Advanced Online Scouting Platform

Sun, 30 Jul 2017 23:00:00 -0000

Brenden Labrum and Brady Loveless of Scout to Hunt join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the ins-and-outs of Scout to Hunt, their subscription-based advanced online scouting platform and some exciting giveaways they’re running before its launch on August 1, 2017.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/27.

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Ep 26 - Getting Filthy Rich One Antler at a Time with Outdoor Business Mogul Ben "ShedCrazy" Dettamanti

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Ben “ShedCrazy” Dettamanti, fitness icon and outdoor business mogul, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about his first experience at Total Archery Challenge, turning shed hunting from a hobby to a full-blown career, meeting hunting industry “celebrities”, how to find good shed spots, outrunning Cam Hanes, the physical aspects of shed hunting and memorializing your hunts through video and journaling.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/26.

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Ep 25 - Bowfishing and Bourbon in South Louisiana with Bowhunter Brotherhood

Tue, 25 Jul 2017 13:00:00 -0000

Patrick Alvarez, Locke Wheeler, Steven Tatum and Robert Alvarez of Bowhunter Brotherhood as well as a bottle of bourbon join Sam on Living Country in the City. Among other things, we talk about bowfishing, joining the BHB staff, trying new things, chasing drones in a boat, awkward handshakes and being the crazy smelly guy in Starbucks.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/25.

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Ep 24 - Hunting Season Prep and Motivation with Mike Merrill

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:10:00 -0000

Mike Merrill joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about preparing for the hunting season, fitness and motivation to start running, sharing wild game with friends and family, setting up trail cameras, predator management and finding a quality hunting partner.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/24.

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Ep 23 - Overcoming Excuses and Obstacles with Sidney Smith

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Sidney Smith, a backcountry hunter, triathlete and double-amputee joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about turning challenges into strengths, his first hunt as a double amputee, inspiring others by sharing hunting stories, carrying a suitcase full of legs through airport security and, generally, shutting down excuses.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/23.

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Ep 22 - Jim Clark and Tim Hanson of Gutpile Games

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jim Clark and Tim Hanson of Gutpile Games join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about their inspiration behind creating a hunting-based adventure card game, moving from Los Angeles to Alaska, contracting giardia and bribing state troopers all from the comfort of your living room and using Gutpile to build excitement for hunting and facilitate the sharing of hunting stories.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/22.

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Ep 21 - Corey Jacobsen on Elk101 and Becoming a More Consistently Successful Elk Hunter

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 06:00:00 -0000

Corey Jacobsen, nine-time elk calling world champion and the brains behind Elk101’s University of Elk Hunting Online Course, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to share his expertise in elk hunting and his passion for education within the hunting community.

In this episode, Corey Jacobsen discusses his journey in creating Elk101, an online platform aimed at educating and improving the success rates of elk hunters through their University of Elk Hunting Online Course. The low success rates in elk hunting prompted Corey to share his knowledge, despite facing criticism, and to foster a sense of unity among hunters. The course covers a wide range of topics, from licenses and scouting to calling techniques and post-hunt strategies, with the goal of increasing both knowledge and confidence among hunters, ultimately making elk hunting more accessible and successful.

The episode delves into Corey's excitement for the University of Elk Hunting course, offering listeners a chance to win an all-expense-paid elk hunting trip. The popularity of Elk101 and its community is discussed, highlighting the passion and camaraderie of experienced hunters who share their insights to ensure the growth of the hunting community. Corey also shares details about a new diaphragm call for elk hunting, developed after months of research and testing, which promises to be a game-changer for hunters.

Corey emphasizes the importance of becoming a consistently successful elk hunter, discussing the need for physical conditioning and the upcoming modules on late-season elk hunting by Randy Newberg. The episode also delves into the notion that hunting success is not solely defined by harvesting an elk but by learning from mistakes and applying those lessons to future hunts. Corey's simplified sequence of elk calls, designed to increase confidence and success, is explained, focusing on vocal interaction and communication with the elk.

Furthermore, the episode explores how emotion and understanding play a pivotal role in elk calls, trumping technical prowess. Corey advocates that practice and understanding can lead anyone to successfully call an elk, even without being a world-class caller. The episode concludes by reminding listeners that anyone can become a successful elk hunter by keeping things simple and facing their fears.

Throughout the episode, Corey Jacobsen's passion for elk hunting and his commitment to educating fellow hunters shine, inspiring listeners to embrace the learning process and unity within the hunting community.

Guest Info

Corey Jacobsen

Elk101

Mentioned in this Episode

—

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Ep 20 - Llamas and the Backcountry with Dustin Wittwer of Team Backcountry

Sat, 17 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Dustin Wittwer of Team Backcountry joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about fueling others' passions, his definition of the backcountry, the best and most challenging parts of the backcountry, llamas, goats and other pack animals, staying unified as hunters and the definition of a successful hunt.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/20.

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Ep 19 - Follow Her Arrow: Outdoors and Hunting with Jessica Taylor Byers

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 09:30:00 -0000

Jessica Taylor Byers of Follow Her Arrow joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about being a role model to other women in a male dominated industry, transparency in her presentation of herself as a hunter, meeting strangers from the Internet, Cam Hanes being good at everything and the excitement of filling tags on her first bear hunt.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/19.

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Ep 18 - Alabama Catfish Noodlin' with Hannah Barron Outdoors

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000

“The Crazy Catfish Girl”, Hannah Barron hops on the line with Living Country in the City to chat all about noodlin’ for catfish, hunting deer before she could walk, the best way to pull a shark hook from your thigh and how to deal with death threats from animal rights activists and creepy comments from old married men.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/18.

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Ep 17 - Hunting and Hiking Boot Selection with Scott Deyoung of Crispi Boots

Sat, 03 Jun 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Scott Deyoung of Crispi Boots joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk boot selection for hunting and hiking, the new Crispi lineup, handmade Italian leather flip flops and European vs. American hunting.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/17.

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Ep 16 - Zac Griffith on Fitness for Hunting

Wed, 24 May 2017 16:41:00 -0000

Zac Griffith, Jefe de Operaciones of SUMMIT Productions sits down with Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the benefits of fitness as a hunter, suggestions for workouts, nutrition and the ketogenic diet, supplements and how a crappy hunter can be a big game serial killer each year.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/16.

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Ep 15 - Public Lands with First Lite's Ryan Callaghan

Wed, 17 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Ryan Callaghan, First Lite's Director of Conservation and Public Relations, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to discuss the issues surrounding our public lands, the differences between state and federally owned lands, why you should never take a camera on a bear hunt, the future of public lands and how you can get involved.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/15.

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Ep 14 - Brett Rousselle of Backcountry Bowhunter and Whitetail Addicts

Sat, 13 May 2017 22:00:00 -0000

Brett Rousselle of Backcountry Bowhunter and Whitetail Addicts joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about lessons learned from working in the hunting industry, Christian Mingle and Farmers Only, following dreams and the restorative power of God and the outdoors.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/14.

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Ep 13 - Niki Tilley on the Outdoor Channel's Miss Wildgame

Wed, 10 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Niki Tilley joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about growing up hunting with her grandfather, the Outdoor Channel’s new show, Miss Wildgame, learning to bowhunt and switching from modeling in heels to huntin’ boots. Get a a free trial subscription to My Outdoor TV and catch Niki on Miss Wildgame Thurs, May 11 at 7:00p E/P by using the promo code “NIKI”.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/13.

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Ep 12 - AccuBow Founder and CEO, Matt Pell

Sun, 07 May 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Matt Pell, founder and CEO of AccuBow, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about developing the AccuBow, its versatility, best training methods and the special Rick Carone Signature Series benefiting the Team Carone Foundation, which you can get for 10% off using discount code TEAMCARONE.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/12.

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Ep 11 - MTN OPS CEO Trevor Farnes on Operation Conquer Hunger

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Trevor Farnes, MTN OPS CEO, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about their humanitarian project, Operation Conquer Hunger, how small starts can result in big differences and how you can help provide nutritious meals for starving children around the world.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.us/11.

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Ep 10 - Guy Eastman at the International Sportsman's Expo

Wed, 19 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Guy Eastman of Eastmans’ Hunting Journal joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about how to begin hunting as a first generation hunter, differences in regional hunting cultures, disabusing people of the notion of the magical grocery store meat fairy and when and how to introduce youth to hunting.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/10.

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Ep 9 - Intro to Elk Calling with "Big" Al Morris of FOXPRO

Sat, 08 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

"Big" Al Morris, of FOXPRO, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to learn about the basics of elk calling, the origins, construction and use of diaphragm calls, different types of bugles and strategies for using them and the best way to get a call lodged in your throat.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/9.

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Ep 8 - Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Utah Regional Director Bill Christensen

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Bill Christensen, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Utah Regional Director joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the mission of RMEF, hunting as conservation, looking to hunting as a source of healthy, organic meat, the magical elk retirement home and ways for you to get involved with RMEF.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountryinthecity.com/8.

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Ep 7 - Big Game Scouting 101 with Nate Zelinsky

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Nate Zelinksy, professional hunting and fishing guide, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to dig into 60/40 scouting for elk and other big game hunts, how to plan a DIY dream hunt with an over the counter tag, some of the biggest struggles for new hunters and the best way to find hunting opportunities by not committing to a “hunt relationship”.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/7.

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Ep 6 - Kristy Titus at the International Sportsman's Expo

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Kristy Titus joins Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about learning to bugle, being an educated hunter and holistically promoting the hunting lifestyle, misconceptions of hunters, throwing snakes at vegans, elk hunting tips and tons more.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.us/6.

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Ep 5 - Austin McFee of Huntin' Fool at the International Sportsman's Expo

Sat, 25 Mar 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Austin McFee, VP of Online Sales and Marketing and Brand Manager at Huntin' Fool joins Sam on Living Country in the Wild to talk about their services, how to win the biggest and baddest basecamp truck I've ever seen, tips for new hunters and a guaranteed way to end up in the dog house with your pregnant wife.

See the show notes page at livingcountry.com/5.

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Ep 4 - Veteran Non-Profit Organization, Operation Pay it Forward

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Sgt. Eric Pauly and SSG Michael Burns of Operation Pay it Forward join Sam on Living Country in the City to talk about the ins-and-outs of the program, the healing power of the outdoors, one-handed cartwheeling and providing a new focus and mission for returning veterans.

See more on the show notes page at livingcountry.com/4.

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Ep 3 - Patrick Alvarez of Bowhunter Brotherhood

Sat, 18 Mar 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Patrick Alvarez, founder of Bowhunter Brotherhood, joins Sam on Living Country in the City to share his journey from a city boy in New York to a passionate advocate for ethical bowhunting and conservation. Amidst discussions on overcoming negative stereotypes and fostering camaraderie, Patrick details his transition from a professional soccer player in Spain to a hunting apparel entrepreneur and community builder. Through Bowhunter Brotherhood, he aims to promote respectful hunting practices, debunk misconceptions, and create a positive community where like-minded individuals can come together.

Patrick's childhood, spent immersed in outdoor games and sports, inspired his deep connection with nature and his eventual venture into bowhunting. He recalls the societal changes that have impacted outdoor activities, emphasizing the need to introduce hunting to others in a non-confrontational manner. Patrick's story of resilience shines as he recounts his journey from a soccer career setback to launching Bowhunter Brotherhood, an apparel line that challenges stereotypes and represents a positive image of bowhunters.

The discussion dives into the heart of Bowhunter Brotherhood, a community focused on supporting ethical hunting, dispelling stereotypes, and nurturing camaraderie. Patrick underlines the significance of wearing hunting apparel that reflects knowledge and respect rather than perpetuating outdated misconceptions. With genuine camaraderie being the core of Bowhunter Brotherhood, Patrick shares experiences from the community, highlighting members' excitement for hunts, their diverse locations, and their shared passion for ethical hunting and conservation.

Navigating the complexities of hunting, Patrick stresses the importance of scent control, wind direction, and ethical shots. He recounts memorable hunting experiences and shares valuable insights into self-filming hunts, a challenging endeavor that combines the art of hunting with cinematography. Patrick's dedication to spreading awareness about hunting's positive aspects is palpable as he addresses misconceptions, negative comments, and the vital role of hunters in conservation efforts.

The podcast further explores Patrick's journey into hunting, his dedication to ethical practices, and the gratification of providing for his family through the meat he harvests. Addressing challenges faced by urban hunters and advocating for a deeper connection to nature, Patrick emphasizes the value of introducing others to the hunting experience. With unwavering passion, Patrick calls for a collective effort to educate and guide newcomers while reminding hunters of the true purpose of their pursuit.

As the conversation wraps up, Patrick shares insights into navigating hunting regulations and the questionable practices of certain organizations. He stresses the importance of education and mentorship, encouraging aspiring hunters to explore public lands and cultivate a genuine appreciation for hunting and conservation. Patrick's journey from a soccer pitch to a thriving hunting community exemplifies his commitment to breaking stereotypes, fostering camaraderie, and advocating for ethical hunting practices.

Guest Info

Bowhunter Brotherhood

Mentioned in this Episode

ARTICLE: New York City Votes to Perform Vasectomies on Deer

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Ep 2 - Hunting Talk with "Just" Samson

Sun, 12 Mar 2017 05:00:00 -0000

"Just" Samson joins Sam on Living Country in the City to share his journey, childhood memories, and deep passion for hunting in this episode. In a conversation that spans from childhood escapades to recent hunting trips, Samson delves into the multifaceted world of hunting, shedding light on the challenging yet deeply rewarding aspects of the activity.

Samson's hunting journey began at an early age, shaped by his mom's influence and a misadventure involving a neighbor's cow. From those humble beginnings, he progressed from shooting chickens and rabbits with a handmade bow to eventually hunting with a rifle. His commitment to eating only what he catches has led him to try a diverse array of animals, ranging from snakes to raccoons.

Hunting has taken Samson through various terrains, including the challenging landscape of Southern California. In a region teeming with predators and limited access, he's pursued deer, bobcats, bears, and more. Despite the obstacles, Samson emphasizes how hunting serves as a way to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for food sources.

Throughout his hunting experiences, Samson has encountered different perspectives within the anti-hunting community. He highlights the need for ethical behavior within the hunting community itself and speaks about the vital role hunting plays in conservation efforts.

Training for hunting at high elevations demands both physical preparation and mental toughness. Samson underlines the importance of ethical shots and the value of mentorship, research, and experience in achieving success in hunting. He offers insights into the accessibility of hunting, the challenges faced, and the sense of satisfaction it brings.

Hunting gear tips abound, from saving money on used items to investing in quality boots. Samson emphasizes the importance of being prepared, sharing personal stories of testing gear and learning from each hunting experience.

Samson's passion for hunting and nature shines throughout the podcast. He discusses observing elk behavior, networking within the hunting community, and the significance of sharing knowledge. His dedication to ethical hunting practices and the value of mentorship adds depth to his insights.

As the conversation wraps up, Samson expresses gratitude to listeners while promoting his podcast and upcoming events. Tune in for a captivating discussion that takes you deep into the heart of the hunting experience.

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