Best Vortex Optics Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 415 | 5 Listener-Requested Optics-Ready Pistols Tested 1:20:16

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4d ago1:20:16

1:20:16

You selected 5 optics-ready pistols. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn shot them. Listen as they run through the features, what they liked, didn’t like, and points to consider. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast…

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EP 521: Permitting Reform & Vortex Optics HQ 28:08

16d ago28:08

28:08

In Episode 521 of District of Conservation, Gabriella recaps her trip to Wisconsin, where she spoke at a permitting reform roundtable with Congressmen Tiffany and Wied, nuclear engineer and Miss America 2023, and others. SHOW NOTES Independent Women Champions American Energy Abundance at Wisconsin Permitting Reform Roundtable ICYMI: Reps. Tiffany a…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Scottish Highlands Red Stag, Sika Deer and Salmon 1:13:23

1d ago1:13:23

1:13:23

Mark Boadman travels to the Scottish Highlands to meet up with the Spartan Precision team. Together, they tackle its rugged terrain and inclement weather in pursuit of red stag, sika deer, and if the stars align, an Atlantic salmon. The landscape breathtaking, Kildermorie Estate Lodge historic, people amazing, and culture rich, this hunt exceeded a…

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What Really Kills Reliability: Friction, Springs, and Ejection Patterns (ft. Mitchell Defense) 53:53

1d ago53:53

53:53

This week, Kailey and John sit down with Nathan Mitchell, founder of Mitchell Defense, to dive into what makes a truly reliable AR. From his background in the military and oil field engineering to redefining “Mil-Spec,” Nathan shares how precision, durability, and smart design create rifles that perform when it counts. They also discuss everything …

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#10MinuteTalk | Vortex Triumph HD 3-9x40 Riflescope and 850 Rangefinder 24:33

2d ago24:33

24:33

The price/performance ratio bar has been set again. The Vortex Triumph HD 3-9x40 Riflescope and 850 Rangefinder are built to impress without depleting your pocketbook. Perfect for budget conscious hunters, casual hunters, and new hunters, these optics round out the Triumph series and will get you in the game. Listen as Luke Roberts and Shane Callag…

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EP 522: Virginia is for Reliable Energy Lovers (ft. Julianne Szyper) 23:40

3d ago23:40

23:40

In Episode 522 of District of Conservation, Gabriella interviews Julianne Szyper - deputy director of Virginia Department of Energy. Julianne discusses her role at the agency, VDOE's top priorities, the Youngkin administration's energy goals, supercharging nuclear fission and fusion, and much more. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Learn more about…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Clay Hayes Alaska Adventure 56:01

8d ago56:01

56:01

Clay Hayes joins Mark Boardman to talk through his month-long Alaska adventure. Moose hunting with his self-bow, fishing, bears, and more made this trip one to remember. Tune in to hear all about it. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagr…

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#10MinuteTalk | Vortex Enclosed Micro Red Dots 20:17

9d ago20:17

20:17

By Ryan Muckenhirn, Mark Boardman

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Ep. 414 | Bolt Action Shotguns 57:11

10d ago57:11

57:11

Bolt action shotguns are dang cool yet nearly a thing of the past. They went from the best option for deer hunting in specific states/regions of states to, well, not. Ryan Muckenhirn brings in a bolt action shotgun to highlight and a few deer stories, as he and Mark Boardman cover the unique firearm category. As always, we want to hear your feedbac…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Rifle Rut Elk with Vortex’s Erik Barber/Slingin’ Rik 1:13:15

15d ago1:13:15

1:13:15

Vortex’s Erik Barber is fresh off a Rifle Elk Rut Hunt for the books. He burned points and powder making a lifelong dream come true. With his wife along for the adventure, they made memories to last a lifetime. Tune in to hear all about it. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vorte…

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What Nobody Tells You About Micro Compacts (ft. CANIK) 1:20:03

16d ago1:20:03

1:20:03

This week, John and Kailey sit down with Adam Ruonala, VP of Business Development and Marketing of CANIK/Century Arms. They dive into the evolution of everyday carry pistols, the GOA x CANiK MC9 collaboration, and why the PRIME is packed with race-gun features. Adam also shares insights on the billboard fight in Oakland, what tariffs mean for gun o…

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Bring One Cartridge Back from the Dead | Spaghetti Shootout Ep. 27 33:09

17d ago33:09

33:09

It’s the season 4 opener of Spaghetti Shootout. Does Mark bag enough points to bring home victory or does he head home tail tucked after another Muckenhirn beatdown? The Cartridge that should be brough back from the dead, favorite aircraft, the broadhead your opponent would be and more. Grab a fork and dig into this exciting episode you don’t want …

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Ep. 413 | The Evolution of the Battle Rifle 2:20:53

18d ago2:20:53

2:20:53

Vortex’s Alexander Lewis and Adam Maxwell team up to talk battle rifles. We cover what a battle rifle is, their evolution, applications where they shine, drawbacks, if you need one, and what the modern battle rifle looks like for today’s warfighter. One thing is certain; we’ve come a long way. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know i…

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Building the Citizen Defense Industry the Government Fears (ft. T-Rex Arms) 36:52

22d ago36:52

36:52

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Isaac Botkin of T.REX Arms to discuss freedom, firearms, and the future of innovation in the gun industry. Isaac shares the story of how T.REX Arms grew from a small business into one of the most recognized names in the 2A space. From holsters as the “business card of freedom” to…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap - Archery Antelope 23:30

22d ago23:30

23:30

Vortex’s Cole Booth enters the podcast chat with an archery antelope hunt that ends with two goats down. Economical and action-packed, this hunt is pure fun and hits before most seasons start. Listen as Cole recounts he and his hunting partners trip, taking us along for the ride. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are an…

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EP 520: President Trump Torches Climate Alarmists at UN General Assembly (ft. Energy Bad Boys) 31:40

23d ago31:40

31:40

In Episode 520 of District of Conservation, Gabriella welcomes back Energy Bad Boys Isaac Orr and Mitch Rolling. They discuss Rahm Emanuel's WSJ op-ed blaming Trump and his One Big Beautiful Bill for raising energy prices, why electricity prices are high, why renewables invited an energy crisis in New Jersey and elsewhere, if renewables are being m…

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#10MinuteTalk | Lawsuit Filed Against ATF — Silencer Shop Breaks It Down 27:19

24d ago27:19

27:19

Silencer Shop founder, Dave Matheny, breaks down their lawsuit against the ATF and the current state of suppressor regulations.The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of keeping suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and Any Other Weapons (AOWs) under the National Firearms Act (NFA). The aim is to eliminate …

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Ep. 412 | Selecting an Every-Day Carry Pistol 1:36:47

25d ago1:36:47

1:36:47

Pistols come in all shapes and sizes — just like people. What you select to carry and where you carry it on your person is a choice based on a range of factors. Chris Urrutia and Corey Eliasson from Vortex Edge®, along with Ryan Muckenhirn, join Mark Boardman to chat through the main categories of pistols, what to consider, and the best choice for …

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EP 519: The Global Impact of Hunting (ft. Tristan Breijer) 26:25

24d ago26:25

26:25

In Episode 519 of District of Conservation, Gabriella publishes her interview with Tristan B. Breijer, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC). CIC is a non-profit international NGO dedicated to advocating for biodiversity conservation through the sustainable use of wildlife re…

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#10MinuteTalk | Fall Hunt Recap — Samong Yang’s WY Archery Mule Deer 42:47

29d ago42:47

42:47

Open country archery mule deer hunting is a tough game — particularly when it’s your first time doing it. Samong Yang from Samong Outdoors teams up with the gang from YETI and Remi Warren for an exciting hunt in sage country. Tune in to hear all about it. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like cover…

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EP 518: The Nuclear Frontier Premieres at Kennedy Center 16:13

1M ago16:13

16:13

In Episode 518 of District of Conservation, Gabriella recaps attending last night's D.C. premiere of the new documentary The Nuclear Fronter at the Kennedy Center. The film was made by The Nuclear Company and other nuclear-adjacent companies. It explores why America, a pioneer of this industry, is having a moment and reclaiming leadership in the nu…

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#10MinuteTalk - Leads and Speeds — Shot Gunning Tips to Break More Birds 1:01:33

1M ago1:01:33

1:01:33

Ryan Muckenhirn “swings through” to give his thoughts on the various forms of shotgun leads, what may work best, and when to use certain types. If you’re looking for practical advice to break clays and bring more birds to bag, this is the episode for you. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like cover…

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EP 517: Charlie Kirk & Cornell University Bear Hunters 23:52

1M ago23:52

23:52

In Episode 517 of District of Conservation, Gabriella pays tribute to Charlie Kirk - an avowed climate realist, 2nd amendment supporter, and nature lover. She also discusses two Cornell University students almost getting in trouble for lawfully hunting black bear in New York State. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Turning Point USA TPUSA + IOTR Pa…

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Ep. 411 | Vortex Crossbow Scope — Shooting to 100 Yards! 34:07

1M ago34:07

34:07

Crossbows are incredibly effective when set up with the right optic. The Vortex Crossfire II Crossbow Scope is that optic. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk the merits of the crossbow platform, the simple process of sighting the Crossfire II Crossbow Scope in, and shooting the system to 100 yards. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let …

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#10MinuteTalk - Fall Hunt Recap — World Record Archery Velvet Bull? 1:06:17

1M ago1:06:17

1:06:17

Kelly Birchmier tells the story of the giant velvet bull he shot with his bow. This was a hunt 12 years in the making, a hunt that almost didn’t happen, a hunt where all the stars aligned — a hunt that resulted in a world record? Tune in to find out. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on…

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EP 516: Boone & Crockett Club Publishes Poach and Pay Report 28:36

1M ago28:36

28:36

In Episode 516 of District of Conservation, Gabriella recaps her European vacation energy and conservation observations and discusses Boone & Crockett Club's newly-launched "Poach and Pay Project." Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Boone and Crockett Club Boone and Crockett Club's Poach and Pay Project…

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This Organization Is Doing What the Government Won’t (ft. SOWW) 18:58

1M ago18:58

18:58

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Joel Pellici, co-founder of SOWW (Special Operations Wounded Warriors), a nonprofit transforming the lives of veterans through nature, brotherhood, and purpose. From wild pig hunts to life-changing service dogs, Joel shares unforgettable stories of resilience, healing, and the un…

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#10MinuteTalk - Factory .300 SUPER WSM and the New Barnes Reserve Line 48:15

1M ago48:15

48:15

Gregg Sloan jumps on to talk through their new Barnes Reserve line of ammo, the “why” behind it, and what it offers hunters/shooters. This ammo comes from the factory with hand-loaded precision and features cartridges you’re not going to find on the shelf of your local shop — including .300 SUPER WSM. Tune in to hear about it and all the current of…

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EP 515: Abundance & Northwoods Policy Network (ft. Paul Schecklman) 29:10

1M ago29:10

29:10

In Episode 515 of District of Conservation, Gabriella kicks off Season 8 of the podcast with Paul Schecklman, a Wisconsin-based hunter-conservationist and founder of the new nonprofit, Northwoods Policy Network. Learn about Paul's background, advocacy, and mission of his newly-launched group. SHOW NOTES Learn about Northwoods Policy Network Follow …

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Ep. 410 | Outside-The-Box Adventure Hunts 1:10:49

1M ago1:10:49

1:10:49

Adventure is what and where you make it. Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn chat through outside-the-box adventure hunts they have planned — to hopefully inspire you to plan yours. From multi-state/multi-species upland bird safaris to equipment-intensive back-40 does, this is a fun podcast you won’t want to miss. As always, we want to hear your feed…

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#10MinuteTalk - Fall Hunt Recap — Washington Black Bear 33:55

1M ago33:55

33:55

Zack Ellis from Pacific North Wild takes a break from fall bear hunting to give us a season update. He covers conditions and timing specific to this year, bear encounters thus far, tactics, and what to look for in the coming weeks. Tune in for some solid info and tips you can take to the field. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know …

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What If Ammo Worked Like Bitcoin? (ft. Bullet Vault) 55:37

1M ago55:37

55:37

In this episode of State of the Second, we sit down with Clay from Bullet Vault. He shares insights into his personal firearm preferences, his experience in the gun industry, and how his companies are responding to changes in the market. Throughout the conversation, Clay opens up about the cultural and political challenges facing the firearms indus…

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#10MinuteTalk - Crossfire® HD Riflescopes — Impressive Quality, Features, and Optics 28:34

2M ago28:34

28:34

The Vortex Crossfire® HD Riflescope series represents quality, economy and versatility. Boasting features and optics found on more expensive options, a deep lineup of configurations, and reticles to suit a wide range of hunters and shooters, they are truly the every-man’s riflescope series. Luke Roberts from Vortex’s product development team joins …

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Ep. 409 | Grouse Biology and More with Meadow Kouffeld 1:26:21

2M ago1:26:21

1:26:21

Ecologist, guide, dog trainer, and taxidermist, Meadow Kouffeld, gives us a rundown on Ruffed Grouse biology and their habits. Knowing your quarry isn’t just interesting, it will make you a better hunter. Quit grousing around and tune in for some great grouse info. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd …

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Why Training Is an Investment in Your Life (ft. Tre’Von Barber) 40:30

2M ago40:30

40:30

In this episode, Kailey and John sit down with Trevon Barber from Right to Bear to talk all things training, competition, and responsible gun ownership. Trevon shares his journey from wrestling to firearms competition, how he built a career teaching others, and why proper education is just as important as owning a firearm. Trevon also discusses the…

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#317 - Using a Thermal Drone to Study Mature Bucks for a Whole Season! - w/Whitetail Research 1:51:27

2M ago1:51:27

1:51:27

In this episode, Zach talks with Derrick from the YouTube channel Whitetail Research about how he decided to take a season off from bowhunting to study mature bucks by following specific deer with a thermal drone. There are a lot of interesting details that Derrick learned about whitetails that other studies may not have been able to document as we…

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#10MinuteTalk - Arrow Setup and Pre-Season Tuning with Erik Barber 42:07

2M ago42:07

42:07

Meticulous, methodical, a stickler for consistency and precision, Erik Barber is serious about his hunting arrows. From component selection to tuning each complete arrow to perfection, he leaves no detail unturned. Tune in to hear what he’s using, why, and what he does to make each arrow hit behind the pin. As always, we want to hear your feedback!…

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Ep. 408 | Elk Hunting Tips with Argali’s Brad Brooks 1:03:33

2M ago1:03:33

1:03:33

Argali’s Brad Brooks drops by to drop some hard-earned elk hunting and backcountry gear knowledge. Years of chasing and consistently harvesting bulls makes his voice a good one to listen to. Weave some of Brad’s elk hunting advice into your tactics tool kit and you just might get your Argali game bags dirty this fall. As always, we want to hear you…

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Gun Content Creator Exposes ATF Overreach (ft. Desk Pop) 41:32

2M ago41:32

41:32

In this episode of State of the Second, John and Kailey sit down with Desk Pop for an unfiltered conversation about gun culture, navigating restrictive states, and why the firearms community is seeing a cultural shift toward fun, welcoming, and engaging content. From working behind the gun counter to launching a thriving YouTube channel, to being d…

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#10MinuteTalk - Ranger® HD 3000 Laser Rangefinding Binocular — Your Two in One Solution 21:11

2M ago21:11

21:11

Range with precision, minimize kit, save time, spot shots, and glass away — all with the Ranger® HD 3000 Laser Rangefinding Binocular. This 10x42 unit is a two-in-one solution for your observation and rangefinding needs. Tune in to hear all about its impressive features and why it may just be your next optic of choice. As always, we want to hear yo…

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Ep. 407 | Dan Johnson — Sportsmen’s Empire and Life-Related Rabbit Trails 1:35:26

2M ago1:35:26

1:35:26

Dan Johnson from the Sportsmen’s Empire Podcast Network visits Vortex. He and Mark Boardman talk about the Sportsmen’s Empire platform, his personal podcasts, life, kids, time best spent, hunting and more. Tune in for a great conversation with a down-to-earth dude. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd …

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EP 514: UN Plastics Treaty Talks Collapse (ft. Dr. Chris DeArmitt) 20:29

2M ago20:29

20:29

In Episode 514 of District of Conservation, Gabriella speaks with plastics expert and author Dr. Chris DeArmitt. They discuss the collapse of UN Plastic Treaty negotiations talks in Geneva, misconceptions about microplastics, plastics pollution, styrofoam, and other paradoxes about plastic usage. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Connect with Dr. C…

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The Military Chose THIS Scope (ft. Vortex Optics) 32:31

2M ago32:31

32:31

Join John and Kailey this week for a jam-packed episode as we sit down with Mark from Vortex Optics to talk gear, hunting, and the Second Amendment. From his favorite all-around rifle scope to wild warranty stories, including optics run over by trucks and dropped off cliffs—Mark shares insider knowledge and real-world tips for choosing the right op…

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#10MinuteTalk - The .264 Win Mag — Fast, Flat and Nearly Forgotten 26:40

2M ago26:40

26:40

The high-velocity .264 Winchester Magnum built its reputation around flat-shooting performance and its ability to flatten game. Making its commercial debut in 1959, it was soon overshadowed but the 7mm Remington Magnum. Tune in as Mark Boardman and Ryan Muckenhirn talk about this incredibly capable yet nearly forgotten cartridge. As always, we want…

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EP 513: Trump Admin Cancels Lava Ridge Wind Project 13:34

2M ago13:34

13:34

In Episode 513 of District of Conservation, Gabriella discusses the Trump administration cancelling the controversial Lava Ridge Wind Project she and CFACT first investigated in August 2022. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES ⁠Interior Department Moves to Cancel Reckless Biden-era Approval of Lava Ridge Wind Project⁠ ⁠How CFACT's 'Conservation Count…

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Ep. 406 | Stocks Versus Chassis — What’s Your Pick? 1:20:42

2M ago1:20:42

1:20:42

This round-table discussion takes place around a table loaded with a wide variety of rifle stocks and chassis. Models, features, total wight, and material composition abound. Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn and precision-rifle-shooter Mike Tassoul talk through what they like, where each is optimal, and what works best for them. As always, we want to…

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EP 512: Sport Fish Restoration (Dingell-Johnson) Act Turns 75 13:35

2M ago13:35

13:35

In Episode 512 of District of Conservation, Gabriella discusses the 75th anniversary of the Sport Fish Restoration (Dingell-Johnson) Act becoming law and bolstering conservation efforts. Tune in to learn more! SHOW NOTES Sport Fish Restoration The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act of 1950 Casting a Conservation Legacy and Celebrating 75 Yea…

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Why the World Is Watching American Gun Culture (ft. GunnyGal) 54:56

2M ago54:56

54:56

Join us this week as John and Kailey sit down with Alyssa (aka @TheGunnyGal) and her husband Tanner for a conversation that blends guns, cars, CrossFit, and content creation into one unstoppable lifestyle. In this episode, Alyssa shares her journey from being intimidated by firearms to becoming a confident 2A educator on YouTube. She and Tanner dis…

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#10MinuteTalk - Backcountry Meal Taste Test — Know Before You Go! 38:19

2M ago38:19

38:19

Food Selection in the backcountry can make or break your hunt. From simply having to choke down what should be a reward at the end of a hard day, to hunt-ruining gastrointestinal issues, it’s good practice to know before you go. Just trust us here! Mark Boardman, Ryan Muckenhirn and new-to-the podcast, Rylan Benson, bring their favorites to share. …

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Ep. 405 | Answering Your Questions 1:25:09

2M ago1:25:09

1:25:09

You asked, we answered. Light-hearted to technical, the gang is back answering listener questions. There’s a little bit of everything in this buffet of banter. As always, we want to hear your feedback! Let us know if there are any topics you'd like covered on the Vortex Nation™ podcast by asking us on Instagram @vortexnationpodcast…