Best Initial Ascent Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 047: Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes | Initial Ascent 51:48

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10d ago51:48

51:48

On this episode, I sat down with Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes from Initial Ascent. We go over the packs in the Initial Ascent line up: Day Pack, IA 3K, IA 5K, IA 8K, and the EDC Pack. We talk about their incredible carbon fibre frame that is capable of hauling over 150lbs comfortably. Listen until the end, to hear about Dennis' spring bear hunt. …

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Ep. 4: Spike Camp - Joel Turner Recap and Shooting Under Fatigue 36:33

3d ago36:33

36:33

In this Spike Camp episode, the team reflects on their insightful conversation with Joel Turner and takes a deeper dive into the strategy behind programming fitness for optimal shooting performance. Connect with Rich Froning MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube S…

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Ep 048: Chrystal and Jeff Cordero | Barefoot Archery 59:29

3d ago59:29

59:29

On this episode I sit down with Chrystal and Jeff Cordero of Barefoot Archery. Chrystal and Jeff are the new owners of Barefoot Archery purchasing it in the fall of 2024. We talk about the ups and downs of new business ownership, bring old and new customers into the new store, and servicing the archery and bowhunting market as a whole. Follow Baref…

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Training, Faith & 40+ Packouts a Year: "Hollywood" Dave Beronio 1:04:27

3d ago1:04:27

1:04:27

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode, we sit down with “Hollywood” Dave Beronio, elite athlete, guide, packout machine, and wedding officiant with over 1,500 ceremonies under his belt. From the ski slopes of Lake Tahoe to hauling 50 animals a year off Utah’s peaks, Dave’s story is one of relentless drive and intentional living. He opens u…

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Ep. 23: Moe's Dall Sheep Pack Dump 2:16:40

4d ago2:16:40

2:16:40

In this Episode we break down the gear Moe is taking on his 16 day solo Dall Sheep hunt. In partnership with - StHealthy Hunter: www.sthealthyhunter.com Hammer Bullets: www.hammerbullets.com/ Initial Ascent Packs: www.initialascent.com/

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Ep. 3: Joel Turner - Masterclass on Mental Control for Archery and Life 57:40

10d ago57:40

57:40

In this episode of In Pursuit, Rich sits down with archery expert Joel Turner to explore the power of mental clarity in mastering both the bow's and life’s challenges. Joel shares his journey to developing his distinctive shooting method, offering insights that blend precision, focus, and resilience. Tune in for a deep dive into the mindset and tec…

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The E-scouting Guru and the Secrets to Elk Hunting Success: Mark Livesay 1:18:31

10d ago1:18:31

1:18:31

Got questions? Send us a text! On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we’re joined by none other than Mark Livesay—the E-Scouting Master behind TreeLine Academy and one of the most respected educators in the elk hunting world. Mark has spent decades refining his system for digital scouting elk hunting areas and has taught thousands of hunter…

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Ep. 2: Spike Camp - Kip Fulks Recap and Top Movements for Western Hunts 38:02

17d ago38:02

38:02

In this Spike Camp episode, Rich Froning and the crew dive into a recap of their conversation with Under Armour co-founder Kip Fulks, unpacking key insights on hunting and hustle. Plus, they break down the ultimate workout movements to build strength, endurance, and agility for concurring the rugged terrain of western hunting season. Connect with R…

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Ep 046: Sarah Bowmar | Fitness | Family | Bowhunting 1:01:21

17d ago1:01:21

1:01:21

On this episode, I sit down with Sarah Bowmar. Sarah is a professional fitness athlete, mother, and incredible bowhunter both in North America and internationally. Sarah and I discuss her start in the fitness industry, how she met her husband Josh Bowmar, the beginings of their supplement company, and starting Bowmar Bowhunting and Beast Broadheads…

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Elk Calling Tactics, Hunting Lessons, and Real-life Challenges: Cody McCarthy 1:17:03

18d ago1:17:03

1:17:03

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of The Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Cody McCarthy—elk caller, Slayer Calls pro, and man of faith—to hear his incredible journey from killing his first bull at 12 years old to becoming one of the most respected voices in the elk hunting world. Cody shares raw, emotional stories from his early…

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Ep. 22: Our Favorite Knives (for now) 1:46:50

19d ago1:46:50

1:46:50

In today's episode, Dalton and Moe bring out their knife collections. Budget, steel type, and favorite profiles are all discussed, as well as some new knives that they will be trying soon. In partnership with - StHealthy Hunter: www.sthealthyhunter.com Hammer Bullets: www.hammerbullets.com/ Initial Ascent Packs: www.initialascent.com/…

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Ep. 1: Kip Fulks - Trading the Boardroom for the Call of the Wild 1:16:20

24d ago1:16:20

1:16:20

Join us for an inspiring episode with Kip Fulks, co-founder of Under Armour. Kip takes us on his remarkable journey from college athletics to building a global sportswear empire, and now thriving as the owner of a hunting outfit in the wilds of Alaska. He opens up about redefining success, sharing how his perspective evolved from chasing ambition t…

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Ep 045: Mechanical Broadhead Test #2 | PART 2 33:08

24d ago33:08

33:08

This episode is a solo podcast where I go over the second group of five broadheads that will be featured in my Mechanical Broadhead Test #2 video. The second group of five broadheads to round out the ten in the test will be from G5 Outdoors, Rage, Grim Reaper, and Thorn. Make sure you listen to Ep 044 to hear about the other five that will be in th…

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The Legend of The Bugler: Dirk Durham 1:32:24

26d ago1:32:24

1:32:24

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we're joined by none other than Dirk Durham, aka The Bugler, a backcountry legend and one of the most respected elk callers in the game. From his stormy-night birth in rural Idaho to bowhunting elk for over three decades, Dirk walks us through the experiences that shaped h…

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Introducing: In Pursuit with Rich Froning 1:56

1M ago1:56

1:56

"In Pursuit" is your definitive guide to fitness and performance in the wild. Hosted by Rich Froning—four-time CrossFit Games champion and founder of CrossFit Mayhem—this show goes beyond the hunt, diving into what drives us to test our limits in the backcountry and beyond. Each episode features raw, wide-ranging conversations with athletes, hunter…

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Ep. 149: Physical and Mental Toughness and The Future of Cutting the Distance 47:28

1M ago47:28

47:28

In this episode, Jason sits down with CrossFit legend, Rich Froning, to dive deep into the mental and physical toughness it takes to succeed, not just in the gym, but in the mountains. Rich opens up about his passion for hunting, what drew him to it, and how it’s challenged him in ways he didn’t expect. They explore how the intensity of elite fitne…

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Ep 044: Mechanical Broadhead Test #2 | First Five Broadheads to Test 36:56

1M ago36:56

36:56

This episode is a solo podcast where I go over the first five broadheads that will be featured in my Mechanical Broadhead Test #2 video. The first five broadheads will be from Sevr, Beast, and Evolution Outdoors. Make sure you listen to Ep 045 to hear about the other five that will be in the test. Follow Sevr Broadheads on Instagram: https://www.in…

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Ep. 21: Initial Ascent Packs: Dennis Stokes 1:23:34

1M ago1:23:34

1:23:34

In this episode of the Great Alaska Hunting Podcast, hosts Dalton Gray and Moriah Humphries chat with Dennis Stokes, co-owner of Initial Ascent packs, about his journey from Florida to Idaho, and the innovative development of their carbon fiber backpack frames. Dennis also shares a heartfelt story of a mule deer hunt honoring his late father, discu…

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Elk Every Year: Zach Bowhay’s Secrets to Long-Term Success in the West 1:00:40

1M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Got questions? Send us a text! Zach Bowhay is one of the most consistently successful elk hunters in the West. In this episode, he joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to break down what it really takes to fill tags year after year—without relying on hype, gimmicks, or lucky draws. From generational hunting knowledge to mental toughness, Zach shares the…

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Ep. 148: The What and Why of Elk Calling 44:23

1M ago44:23

44:23

In this episode of Cutting the Distance, we dive into a Pendleton Whisky Q&A session that tackles some of the most common—and most critical—questions elk hunters have heading into the season. Jason Phelps shares what to do when your cameras are lighting up with elk but not many bulls, how often you can realistically expect a bull to respond to your…

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Ep 043: Ryan Peterson and Misha Koroscil | First Time at Total Archery Challenge 1:39:41

1M ago1:39:41

1:39:41

On this episode, I sit back down with Ryan Peterson and Misha Koroscil who attended the 2025 Total Archery Challenge in Pennsylvania for the first time. We talk about all things TAC, archery, bowhunting, broadheads, arrows, arrow fletching, and our thoughts from the 2025 PA Total Archery Challenge. Follow Misha Koroscil on Instagram: @https://www.i…

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Burning Beds, Backcountry Demons & Bowhunting Elk with Nate Illingsworth 1:04:48

1M ago1:04:48

1:04:48

Got questions? Send us a text! In this raw and hilarious episode, Nate Illingsworth joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to share his insane journey—from nearly burning down his house mid-romance to losing 80 pounds and tackling backcountry elk hunts head-on. Nate opens up about fitness, faith, mental resilience, and the power of doing hard things—all w…

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Ep. 147: Elk Hunting Q&A with The Bugler 1:04:01

2M ago1:04:01

1:04:01

Dirk asked his Instagram followers to send questions regarding elk hunting. No surprise there were some smartypants questions, and some really good serious ones as well. He covers: why the Maverick diaphragm is so much better than the Pink Phelps, early season calling tactics, this year's broad head of choice, sleep talking, best calls NOT to make,…

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Ep 042: Julien Simard and Keegan Layer | NEW Friends from PA TAC | Ottawa Archers 1:42:30

2M ago1:42:30

1:42:30

On this episode I sit down with Julien Simard and Keegan Layer. I met these fellas at the 2025 PA Total Archery Challenge Event. It turns out that they are Canadian and are new to TAC events and bowhunting. We discuss our experineces at the Total Archery Challenge, bow set ups, gear, hunting experiences and their 3D club Ottawa Archers. Follow them…

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Gear Talk Pt 2: Clothing Systems & the Merino vs Synthetic Debate 1:15:39

2M ago1:15:39

1:15:39

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of Gear Talk, we go deep into clothing systems for backcountry hunting. From the hot debate of Merino wool vs synthetic base layers to how to layer effectively without overpacking, this is your ultimate breakdown of what to wear, when, and why. Whether you’re prepping for spring bear or late-season elk…

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Ep. 20: Archery Bear Bait Kills and Final Season Recap 2:05:25

2M ago2:05:25

2:05:25

In this episode of The Great Alaska Hunting Podcast, hosts Dalton and Moe are joined by Dalton’s wife, Tabitha, and friend Hunter Brook. Together, they share stories from spring bear baiting season in Alaska, including setup mishaps, successful kills, and encounters with grizzlies. They also detour into discussions on European bears, hunting gear, …

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Ep. 146: Elk Calling with Chris Cabral 1:00:39

2M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Chris Cabral is an accomplished lifelong elk hunter and hunting guide. This week Dirk picks Chris' brain on trail cams, locating bulls, calling bulls, and late season rifle elk hunting tactics. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Net…

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Ep 041: Tom LaLond from XOP | NEW Products for 2025 53:49

2M ago53:49

53:49

On this episode I sit down with Tom LaLond from XOP. We talk about all of the cool NEW products being released in 2025. You won't want to miss this one. To learn more about XOP Click here: https://xopoutdoors.com/ Follow XOP on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xopgear Subscribe to the XOP YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@UCMN_FKLl…

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Gear Talk Pt 1: Basecamp vs Backpack Hunting | Backcountry Nutrition, Gear Tips 1:13:32

2M ago1:13:32

1:13:32

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode, we dive deep into the backcountry, from the comfort of basecamp hunts to the grind of true backpack-style missions. We swap personal hunting stories, break down gear essentials like backcountry chairs, and talk about how to balance comfort and pack weight when you're miles deep. We also hit on one of …

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Ep. 145: The Kyven Bugle Tube with Kyle and Steven Bradshaw 56:15

2M ago56:15

56:15

In this episode, Jason sits down with Kyle and Steven Bradshaw, the innovators behind the Kyven Bugle Tube, the first truly collapsible, full-size bugle. They dive into the origins of the idea and the long road from prototype to full-scale production. Jason shares his perspective on recognizing a great idea when he sees one, and the humility it tak…

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Ep 040: Jared Kaiser | Marsupial Gear 1:08:02

2M ago1:08:02

1:08:02

On this episode, I sit down with Marketing Director Jared Kaiser of Marsupial Gear. We discuss Jared's exposure to hunting from a young age, his bowhunting set up today, and a large portion of the gear covered in the Marsupial Gear line up. For more information about Marsupial Gear click here: https://www.marsupialgear.com/ Follow Marsupial Gear on…

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The Hollywood Cameraman: Clint Easley 1:04:31

2M ago1:04:31

1:04:31

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode, we sit down with Clint Easley, a former architect to the stars turned full-time filmmaker and mountain hunter. From designing homes for Hollywood elites to filming in the remote wilds of Alaska, Clint’s story is one of bold transitions, relentless creativity, and a calling to something deeper. This co…

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Ep. 19: Bowhunting Alaska: Bear Camp Stories 1:20:01

2M ago1:20:01

1:20:01

Dalton and Moe share their experiences from an Alaskan bear baiting camp. This episode blends bowhunting tips, wildlife encounters, and the charm of outdoor life in the Last Frontier. In partnership with - StHealthy Hunter: www.sthealthyhunter.com Hammer Bullets: www.hammerbullets.com/ Initial Ascent Packs: www.initialascent.com/…

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Ep. 144: Jason's Better Half, aka The Boss, Sondi Phelps 49:11

2M ago49:11

49:11

After many attempts, Jason was finally able to convince his wife, Sondi Phelps, to come on to the podcast and talk about her upbringing, the struggle growing the business with two small kids and full time jobs, as well as her journey to becoming a hunter, and a few stories from the hunts. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on…

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Ep 039: Sam Thrash from Fall Obsession 1:10:48

2M ago1:10:48

1:10:48

On this episode, I sit down with Sam Thrash from Fall Obsession. Sam started Fall Obsession years ago, and has grown it as an outdoor hunting brand that incorporates a number of different content creators and stretches across podcasts, videos, and tv shows. We talk all things archery, Total Archery Challenge, bow and arrow setups, Prime Archery, an…

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Dan Whitmus Stabbed Himself in Alaska and SURVIVED! 1:01:46

2M ago1:01:46

1:01:46

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode, we sit down with legendary hunting guide Dan Whitmus, a man who’s lived over 30 years in the wilderness guiding hunters through Alaska, Africa, New Zealand, and the American West. Dan shares jaw-dropping stories, including surviving a self-inflicted knife wound deep in the bush, 300+ pound solo packou…

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Ep. 143: Running Dogs for Spring Bear 1:08:12

2M ago1:08:12

1:08:12

Dirk and Bradley Dammerman of Idaho Whitetail Guides catch up on Bradley's Spring bear season, and then take a deep dive into a conservation organization that Bradley jus started: North Idaho Houndsmen Association. They talk about conserving the animals hound hunters love to pursue. They also talk about issues Hunting Outfitters here in Idaho are f…

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Ep 038: Thoughts After Day 1 on the Prime Course | Total Archery Challenge PA TAC 2025 51:07

3M ago51:07

51:07

On this episode I sit down with Misha Koroscil and Ryan Peterson who attended the 2025 Total Archery Challenge in Pennsylvania. We talk about Day one on the Prime course @G5PRIMEOfficial and their first experiences and opinions of the Total Archery Challenge @totalarcherychallenge as first time attendees. Follow Misha Koroscil on Instagram: @misha.…

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They've Killed Over 20 wolves! Justin and Kate Small 1:09:27

3M ago1:09:27

1:09:27

Got questions? Send us a text! Justin and Kate Small, two of the best predator hunters on the planet, share their expertise on wolf hunting tactics that can make you a more effective hunter. • Kate's background includes nursing in Tanzania where she spent four months providing healthcare in poverty-stricken areas, including two months living with t…

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Ep 18: Brown Bears, Baits, and Gear 1:39:12

3M ago1:39:12

1:39:12

Dalton shares a thrilling brown bear hunt. With Moe, they dive into bear baiting woes and gear. In partnership with - StHealthy Hunter: www.sthealthyhunter.com Hammer Bullets: www.hammerbullets.com/ Initial Ascent Packs: www.initialascent.com/By The Great Alaska Hunting Company LLC

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Ep. 142: Spring Bear and BS 55:29

3M ago55:29

55:29

Jason and Dirk get back together again after a busy spring and shoot the breeze about their bear hunts. Jason and close friend Tyson, hunt bears in Idaho. Dirk hunted black bears in the great state of Alaska on an invite from Christensen Arms. They discuss the highs and lows of bear hunting and throw in a few bear hunting tips. Connect with Jason, …

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Ep 037: Josh Kuehni | Endure Outdoors 1:01:12

3M ago1:01:12

1:01:12

On this episode I sit down with Josh Kuehni from Endure Outdoors. Josh is an avid outdoorsman who has been hunting for a significant part of his life. Josh and his wife Jamie live and breathe the outdoor lifestyle with their four children, and teach their children how to live in and live off the land. Josh spends most of his hunting time chasing tu…

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GIANT IDAHO BEARS with Chris Young 1:06:26

3M ago1:06:26

1:06:26

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode, our host Chris Young shares the full story of his 2025 Idaho spring bear hunt. From rivers crossed with pack rafts to glassing for days in high mountain wind, this conversation captures the highs, lows, and lessons of a truly special backcountry experience. Along the way, Chris reflects on the power o…

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Ep. 141: My Dad is Tougher than YOUR DAD! 1:02:43

3M ago1:02:43

1:02:43

In the spirit of Father's Day, Jason and Dirk enjoy comparing their Father's personalities and atributes. They discuss their dad's backgrounds, and reminiscing about their first times hunting with them. Learn more at https://www.treelineacademy.net/ Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, …

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200" BUCKS AND LIGHTNING STRIKES 1:16:54

3M ago1:16:54

1:16:54

Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, filmmaker and backcountry hunter Martin Chagnovich shares the story behind his film Chasing 200, which documents his years-long pursuit of a 200-inch mule deer buck in the rugged Utah mountains. The conversation explores Martin’s roots in hunting, growing up in a hunting f…

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Ep 036: Dave from Hellcat Outdoors | Tips and Tricks for Black Bear Season 1:33:20

3M ago1:33:20

1:33:20

On this episode I sit down with Dave from Hellcat Outdoors to talk about Spring Black Bear Season in Ontario, Canada. We talk about our experiences, different styles of baiting, how to identify a boar or a sow, different broadheads for bowhunting bears, and so much more. Follow Hellcat Outdoors on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellcatoutdoor…

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Laying the Foundation: Welcome to the Mountain Dude Podcast 12:45

3M ago12:45

12:45

Got questions? Send us a text! In this kickoff episode, host Chris Young along with the Initial Ascent owners Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes gather around the table to set the stage for something bigger than gear talk or hunting stories (though you’ll get plenty of both). This podcast is about diving deep into faith, failure, triumph, and the relen…

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Ep. 17: Grizzly Gunned Down on Parks Hwy: Tourists Lose It 1:47:03

3M ago1:47:03

1:47:03

Moe hosts Hunter, while Dalton is out guiding. Hunter recounts a tense grizzly bear hunt on a busy Alaska highway. Facing tourist outrage and threats, Hunter shares the chaos of the kill. The episode dives into raw hunting experiences and Alaska’s wild challenges. In partnership with - StHealthy Hunter: www.sthealthyhunter.com Hammer Bullets: www.h…

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Ep. 140: Elk Tactics: 10 Questions to Be Better 53:23

3M ago53:23

53:23

In this episode, Jason Phelps takes on 10 of the toughest elk hunting questions every serious hunter should ask. From calling strategies and terrain tactics to handling hung-up bulls and the mental grind, Jason breaks down exactly how he approaches each scenario in the elk woods. With decades of experience and countless bulls called in, he shares h…

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Ep 035: Jeremy Williams | Hillview Custom Meats | Butcher, Bowhunter, Wild Game Processor, and Family man 1:23:30

3M ago1:23:30

1:23:30

On this episode I sit down with Jeremy Williams from Hillview Custom Meats. Jeremy is a butcher, wild game processor, bowhunter, and family man with a love for the outdoors. We talk about his early days as a butcher and bowhunter, tips and tricks in preparing your wild game for processing, and a long history with an eleven year old whitetail. To le…