On Step Alaska

Episode 503 - How to fish Bristol Bay

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:26:00 -0800

It's travel angling time, so here's a repost of the episode I did with Dagen Walton from Last Change lodge on the Kvichak river in the legendary Bristol Bay region of Alaska. He explains choices for rods, reels, lines, leaders, sink tips, and flies, and how they shape on-river performance.

We cover casting methods, swing and indicator tactics, hookset timing, essential boat and pack setups, and travel tips—clear, experience-based guidance for anglers wanting to fish smarter and with more confidence.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 502 - Summer is here

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 02:56:00 -0800

Lou Tamposi and I talk about the joys of early-summer light, a frustrating turkey season, birthday traditions, and family life, while planning fishing and cabin projects in Alaska. We also touch on teaching end-of-year challenges, favorite meals and books, and broader concerns about technology, sustainability, and staying connected to where our food comes from.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 501 - Island life crisis

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:52:00 -0800

In this episode, journalist and author Sara Kehaulani Goo discusses her book Kuleana: A Story of Family, Land and Legacy in Old Hawaii. She summarizes the story of how a shocking tax increase on land granted to her family 175 years ago nearly cost them the property. The story is highly relatable as wealthy non-locals gobble up land which prices out many locals in tourist destinations like Hawaii and Southeast Alaska. We also talk about her journalism career across major outlets, the rise of creator-driven media, potential uses and risks of AI for reporting, and practical advice for aspiring journalists.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 500 - Alaska gubernatorial candidate: Click Bishop

Mon, 18 May 2026 02:52:00 -0800

Click Bishop discusses his journey from gold mining and pipeline work to public service as a member of the Alaska State Senate. He breaks down Alaska's energy and resource challenges, including oil and gas production, pipeline economics, and energy security, along with priorities for education funding, vocational training, fisheries management, and rural needs. Bishop emphasizes bipartisan cooperation, practical solutions for infrastructure and cost-of-living pressures, and the importance of trades and local industries in keeping Alaska resilient as the state navigates future development and resource opportunities.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 499 - Alaska gubernatorial candidate: Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins

Mon, 11 May 2026 02:18:00 -0800

In this episode, Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins discusses his Sitka roots, early interest in politics, and decision to run for governor of Alaska. JKT outlines policy priorities including protecting the Permanent Fund, closing oil tax loopholes, supporting fishing communities and fair representation on the Board of Fish, and expanding affordable housing.

Note: I have reached out to multiple candidates from both parties to ensure varied perspectives.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 498 - Will the public allow AI to ruin movies?

Tue, 05 May 2026 03:19:00 -0800

Ketchikan High School graduate Joey Karlik is an assistant to two literary managers in Beverly Hills and a filmmaker himself. In this episode we talk about how AI is impacting the film industry. We discuss ethical concerns about AI-generated performances and threats to jobs in production and representation. We also talk about social media hype, the future of movie theaters, recent must-see films, and practical career advice for anyone trying to break into or stay in Hollywood.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 497 - Ticks, turkey and real estate

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:37:00 -0800

In this episode, Jeff talks to Lou Tamposi talk about real estate, ticks, turkeys and food. Lou works in real estate and is an author and hunter in Massachusetts. He and Jeff host the Light Sear podcast on Substack.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 496 - Can Alaska solve its financial problems?

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:10:05 -0800

Larry Persily moved to Alaska in 1976 to buy the Wrangell Sentinel. In this episode he recounts a long career covering logging, fishing, and Alaska's dependency on oil. We also discusses Alaska’s fiscal challenges, the Permanent Fund dividend, declining oil production, debates over taxes and public services, and how social media and changing business models are threatening local news and community life.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 495 - Sports movies and AI in the film industry

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:06:00 -0800

Dante Troina and Kody Malouf host The Cinema Cult Podcast. In this episode we discuss Major League, Bad News Bears, Moneyball, Hoosiers, the nostalgic human moments that make them resonate, and how film storytelling captures those emotions. We also talk about the impact of analytics and AI in sports, AI’s growing role in filmmaking and post-production, and the ethical and cultural questions that come with relying on technology for creative work.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 494 - Public lands, recreation and data centers

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:51:00 -0800

Travis Hall is the associate editor for Field and Stream. In this episode we discuss conservation writing, important issues, meaningful conversations about complex issues, his trip to the potential site of the Ambler Road and the amount of foreign mining companies looking to dig up American soil.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 493 - Journalism, Oil Spills, and Life on the Edge

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:37:00 -0800

In this episode journalist and author Tom Kizzia recounts his journey from arriving in Homer in the mid-1970s and reporting for the Anchorage Daily News. We discuss the newsroom environment, land management and oil politics of the 1980s, as well as his books, especially Pilgrim's Wilderness, his 2013 bestseller about a cruel patriarch who attempts to insulate his family from reality near the town of McCarthy.

We also talk about changing attitudes toward development, national parks, tourism, and the challenge of balancing storytelling, objectivity, and empathy.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 492 - Alaska Blade Works

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:59:00 -0800

Matt Deluca from Alaska Blade Works covers knife testing and iterations, field sharpening and maintenance, essential backcountry gear, rifle choices, and where to buy their products. We also discuss hunting sheep, populations and the incredible outdoor opportunities provided by living in Alaska.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 491 - Fly fishing set up for Bristol Bay

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:12:00 -0800

Dagen Walton is back to deep dive into fly fishing specifics. We start at the fly rod and work all the way through his preferences for big rainbows in Bristol Bay. We break down tactics, fly selection, managing line in varying depths and even luggage that anglers should own.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 490 - Tongass Crossroads: Logging, Wildlife, and the Roadless Rule

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 03:14:00 -0800

This episode features a panel of Southeast Alaska locals—guides, hunters, and conservationists—discussing the Tongass National Forest. We discuss past logging impacts, the Roadless Rule, and transitioning to young-growth management. We also share stories about effects on salmon, deer, and bear habitat, the growth of tourism and recreation, and how upcoming public comment periods regarding the next forest plan.

Panel:

Mary Glaves -Juneau

Bjorn Dihle - Juneau

Lucas Mullen - Petersburg

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Seawind Aviation (Ketchikan-based flightseeing and air charters)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 489 - Olympic Biathlon

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:42:00 -0900

In this episode, Olympic athlete Maxime Germain talks about helping the U.S. Olympic 4×7.5 km biathlon relay team record its best finish in history. We discuss his approach to the skiing and shooting elements of biathlon, the European attitude toward biathlon, and his journey from Juneau, to France, to Anchorage before graduating from West Anchorage High School. We also discuss the importance of hobbies (such as knitting) as a break from competition, the need for sponsorships for less popular Olympic sports.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 488 - Fly fishing for steelhead and silvers

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:31:00 -0900

Brennen Schulz is a commercial fisherman and fishing guide who grew up in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about the transition from gear fishing to fly fishing, flies, proper hook sets, conservation and the life of being a guide.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 487 - Recreation and economics in Southeast Alaska

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:11:11 -0900

Dan Kirkwood works for SalmonState and in this episode we talk about forest management in Southeast Alaska, habitat for deer and salmon, the Tongass forest plan update, and the challenge of balancing logging, tourism, and local economies.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 486 - A Father-Son Fishing Legacy on Bristol Bay

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:07:25 -0900

Indy and Dagen Walton talk about starting out commercial fishing in Kodiak then running drift boats and set nets in Bristol Bay. We cover community, conservation, crowded runs, permit changes, extreme weather, guide academies, sustainability and concerns about developments like the Pebble Mine.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 485 - Bristol Bay commercial and fly fishing

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:21:00 -0900

In this episode Dagen Walton shares his life on Bristol Bay—growing up commercial fishing, running a small fly‑fishing lodge, and guiding guests on world‑class fisheries. Trout Unlimited Alaska Communications Director Marian Giannulis is also with us and provides important stats about Bristol Bay. She explains HB 233 which would go a long way in protecting the region from mining that would severely impact habitat for both subsistence use and the multi-billion dollar fishing industry.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 484 - Chickens, trout and eating moose

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:46:00 -0900

Kyle Wilkinson is a freshwater fishing guide and outdoors columnist for The Frontiersman newspaper in Wasilla. In this episode we discuss winter conditions, practical tips for preventing frozen pipes, moose roasts and creative game recipes. We also get into guiding, fly fishing patterns, small-scale farming and chicken care, and his work writing local features and columns.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 483 - The future of Alaska commercial fishing

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 02:53:00 -0900

Patrick McCormick is a science teacher and commercial fisherman. In this episode we talk about fishing the Copper River Delta and Prince William Sound, permit economic, commercial and charter users, concerns about trawling, and the need for science-based management and local engagement.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 482 - The need for obsession and fun

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:04:24 -0900

Journalist Katie Hill discusses her writing process, workforce reduction threatening a long-standing wildlife research center, and why federal science funding matters for hunters, habitat, and conservation policy. We also talk about balancing urgent conservation fights with keeping hunting accessible and fun to recruit and retain everyday outdoor participants.  

Here are the links to the Meateater and Substack pieces we discuss.   

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 481 - Tracking steelhead

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:41:00 -0900

University of Alaska-Fairbanks fisheries ecologist (steelhead expert) Michael Courtney talks about Alaska steelhead biology, tagging studies using pop-up satellite archival tags, and the unexpected westward migrations these repeat spawners take. We also cover predation risks, timing and river conditions, fishing methods, and how to follow ongoing research or contact the team for publications and data.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Conservation Focus: Roadless Rule

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:21:00 -0900

This episode traces the history and impact of the Roadless Rule in the Tongass National Forest. Chris Wood, a key architect of the rule and President of Trout Unlimited, describes the conservation rationale, restoration work, partnerships with industry and local villages, and how balanced, collaborative solutions can protect fisheries while supporting rural economies.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Conservation Focus: Ambler Road

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 05:22:00 -0900

Fisheries scientist Kevin Fraley recounts fieldwork along the Dalton Highway investigating contaminants like mercury and PFAS, mining impacts along the proposed Ambler Road, access and conservation concerns, and fishing for Arctic Char.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Conservation Focus: West Susitna Access

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 04:18:00 -0900

This episode explores the proposed West Susitna Access — a 100+ mile industrial corridor from Big Lake through roadless wetlands to exploratory mining claims — covering estimated costs, major bridge and maintenance concerns, and how the project was split between state agencies.

We discuss ecological risks to wetlands, salmon and lamprey habitat, impacts on hunting and fishing, community perspectives from Talkeetna, and practical ways the public can get involved through comments, the Susitna River Coalition, and local events.

Conservation Focus: Mendenhall Wetlands

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:19:00 -0900

To close out the year I’m revisiting four critical habitat and conservation issues in Alaska.

This episode dives into the debate over a proposed second crossing through the Mendenhall wetlands in Juneau, Alaska. Local conservationists, hunters and bird experts discuss the ecological importance of the wetlands — a globally important stopover used by hundreds of thousands of migratory birds and over 230 species — and how different bridge alternatives would affect habitat, fishing, hunting access and community recreation.

Episode 480 - Zodiac adventures and local life in Ketchikan

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 02:17:00 -0900

Delaney Murphy is the co-founder of Out To Sea Expeditions, a Zodiac‑based tour business in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about why small, local experiences matter, tour logistics, and what makes Southeast Alaska unique—especially low‑tide. We also discuss supporting local businesses, and the importance of sustainable and regenerative tourism for the community.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 479 - Alaska's fishing future

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:07:00 -0900

In this episode David Bayes talks about the environmental impacts of bottom and midwater trawling in Alaska. He explains the political and regulatory powers that allow the staggering bycatch and waste of king salmon, halibut, crab, and whales.

More information is available on the STOP Alaska Trawl Bycatch page on Facebook

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 478 - Touring Misty Fjords with Allen Marine

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0900

Allen Marine was voted Ketchikan’s 2025 Business of the Year. In this episode I talk to Matthew and Emma about the company's humble $82 first season fifty years ago to a fleet of custom vessels running tours out of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau. The episode covers wildlife practices and Ketchikan-specific excursions, vessel lineup, and what makes the Misty Fjords a must-see.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 477 - Calling Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:33:00 -0900

The episode covers calling tactics for Sitka Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska. I talk about using a subtle call while approaching muskeg edges, the trade-off between waiting patiently at one spot versus covering more ground, and why confidence in your call matters.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 476 - The case for a hot tent

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 01:10:00 -0900

In this episode Ryan Sapena from Seek Outside walks through his favorite tent setups — the Courthouse, Cimarron and the ultralight Silex — and explains liners, stove choices, and simple maintenance tips.

He also covers setup best practices and common mistakes (tensioning, guy-outs), condensation management, accessories, and buying advice including Black Friday sales and lead times.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 475 - Why everyone should be an athlete

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 01:38:00 -0900

Steve Shannon is a former teacher turned strength coach in Fairbanks. In this episode we discuss why everyone should be an athlete with the goal of improving the quality of their lives, not just pursuing athletic achievements. He gives practical advice on training youth athletes, fueling performance with protein and sleep, and using simple habits "exercise snacks," and rucking to stay fit for hunting and life.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 474 - Can sugar-free protein bars taste good?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 01:44:00 -0900

Atlas bar founder James Oliver talks about the motivation behind making a high‑protein, low‑sugar bar with real ingredients, grassroots sales at gyms, a 100‑mile running challenge eating only Atlas bars, and the importance of honesty when marketing. We also discuss the current state of metabolic health in America, craving challenges and information.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 473 - Homesteading and self-sufficiency

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 02:04:00 -0800

Anna Sakawsky is the host of The Coop and editor of Homestead Living Magazine. In this episode she shares her journey from city life, practical tips for gardens, infrastructure, chickens, pest management, and cost-saving strategies.

We also cover food preservation (canning, fermenting, freeze-drying), dealing with failures, choosing starter animals, and what readers can expect from Homestead Living magazine and the podcast.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 472 - Fly fishing and pollution above the Arctic Circle

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:15:00 -0800

In this episode Kevin Fraley talks about chasing brightly colored “pumpkin” Arctic char above the Arctic Circle. We also discuss his contaminant research along the Dalton Highway, concerns about the proposed Ambler Road, the rollback of the Central Yukon Resource Management Plan, and related impacts on fish, caribou, and local subsistence.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors: 

Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.) 

Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.) 

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 471 - Flightseeing and glacier landing

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 01:50:00 -0800

Udo Cassee is the owner of Sheldon Air Service in Talkeetna. In this episode we discuss year-round operations including flightseeing tours, ski-plane glacier landings, transporting Denali climbers, bear-viewing trips, and air taxi services. Udo explains his small-group approach, aircraft types (Cessna 185 and radial Beaver), and the legacy of Don Sheldon.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 470 - Outdoor analytics and reviews

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 01:59:00 -0800

Jack Westerheide discusses his path from marketing and consulting to building Scout, a platform for collecting authentic stories and research about hunting and fishing. We also discuss how social media, influencers, and AI reshape trust, gear reviews, industry dynamics, and why capturing real traditions and consumer insights matters for the future of the outdoors.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 469 - Hunting moose and bison in Alaska

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:55:00 -0800

Alaska Wild Project's Daniel Buitrago recounts his brutal moose hunt that featured rain, flooded rivers, broken winches and bridge building. We also discuss plans for an upcoming bison float hunt, filming a feature for Alaska Wild Project, and community events and meetups for the hunting season.

Episode 468 - Sheep hunting with a 10-year old

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:28:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling is back to recap his week-long backpack sheep hunt with his 10-year-old son. We discuss managing expectations, the lows of weathered-in tent days, gear choices, and parenting on the trail.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 467 - Moose, deer and gear

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:02:00 -0800

Abby and I recap our blacktail deer season, my recent moose hunt and gear we have liked.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 466 - Intentional living

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 01:54:00 -0800

In this episode Lou Tamposi and I discuss Substack, intentional eating, home-cooking tips, farmed seafood, buying directly from small farms, hunting and processing venison, simple recipes and balancing family life, fitness, and food choices. Lou's Substack is Cow-we-doin'.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 465 - The Roadless Rule

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 02:34:00 -0800

Trout Unlimited CEO Chris Wood discusses the history and impact of the Roadless Rule, the Tongass National Forest, and how roads and logging affect salmon habitat in Southeast Alaska. We talk about the rule’s origins, lessons learned over 25 years, the need for balanced local economies and recreation, and how collaborative restoration and thoughtful management can protect fish, communities, and sustainable timber uses.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 464 - Wildfires, community and cortisol

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:16:00 -0800

Amanda Montei is a writer and former wildfire hot shot. In this episode we discuss her time fighting wildfires, growth through struggle, handling intense situations, community, and writing. Her podcast is called Life with Fire and her Substack is Little Fire Burning.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Episode 463 - Notching the tags

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 02:33:00 -0800

Since we didn't get into detail about the actual hunting, this episode is the play-by-play of the bucks the Bales brother tagged.

Episode 462 - Impressive feats, variation and attitude

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 01:07:00 -0800

Jaden, Tyler and discuss what makes hunts impressive, the importance of attitude, reputation, and personal quests. We also talk about the variety of hunts we did over their 10 days in Alaska and that it's okay to have fun and enjoy the experiences.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 461 - Hunting blacktail in Southeast Alaska

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 02:15:00 -0800

In this episode Jaden and Tyler Bales and I recap our first trip into the mountains for blacktail deer. We discuss the reality for locals who must travel by boat, truck or both to access hunting grounds, how AI is impacting the outdoor space, flooded tents and knowing when it's time to call it and get off the mountain.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 460 - Road hunting and private equity

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:13:00 -0800

On this Opening Day road hunt, Abby and I discuss habitat and the impact of corporations and private equity on local business and outdoor companies.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 459 - Alpine hunting logistics

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 03:55:00 -0800

Jaden Bales and his bother have never been to Alaska so in this episode Jaden and I talk expectations, logistics, gear and weather as he packs for the trip to hunting blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 458 - Remote cabin building in Alaska

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:44:00 -0800

Margaret Stern lives in Talkeetna, Alaska, and is preparing to build a cabin on her new property. In this episode we talk about her first project in the remote interior of Alaska, milling lumber, foundations, making adjustments, plans for the new cabin and unique property luxuries like DIY saunas.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 457 - Dry cabins, public land and parenting

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:58:00 -0800

In this episode, Harrison Gottschling and I discuss the joys and trials of raising children in Alaska (particularly his life in a dry cabin), the attempted sale of public lands and making the most of daylight.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 456 - Gear for hunting in Southeast Alaska

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:14:00 -0800

In this episode I go through my gear and approach to hunting deer in the alpine of Southeast Alaska. I discuss boots, socks, gaiters, pants, rain gear, base layer choice for cold, rainy weather, optics, tent location, terrain scouting and being ready before first light.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 455 - Camping with an 8 month old

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 01:35:00 -0800

Abby and I discuss navigating the challenges of camping with our 8-month-old. We break down hiking the West Glacier Spur and most of Thunder Mountain in Juneau. We talk essential gear, strategies for staying dry and warm, and developing confidence to continue to adventure though we have a baby.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 454 - Tidewater fly fishing

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:35:00 -0800

Dave McKenna is the owner of Tidewater Flyfishing in Juneau. In this episode we discuss his start in fly fishing, transitioning into guiding, dealing with bears during fly outs, starting his own business and what you need to get started fly fishing.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 453 - Movies set/filmed in Alaska

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 01:57:00 -0800

In this episode, Dante Troina, Kody Malouf and I discuss Alaskan-themed movies, noting the romanticized vision many have of the state, and break down how authenticity plays a role in the perception of films set in Alaska.

We review movies such as Mystery, Alaska; The Proposal, Into the Wild, Grizzly Man, Insomnia, 30 Days of Night, On Deadly Ground and more.

Dante and Kody are life-long Alaskans and the host of The Cinema Cult Podcast.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 452 - West Susitna Access Road Project

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 01:06:00 -0800

Susitna River Coalition's Margaret Stern and I discuss the proposed 100-mile West Susitna Access Road Project that would cross the Susitna River. We explore the project's potential benefits, like increased access and growth, against its significant environmental impact, and other infrastructure projects that might be a better investment for the funds.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 451 - Alaska mushrooms

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:20:00 -0800

Ecologist Kate Mohatt and I discuss all things mushrooms and her upcoming book "Mushrooms of Alaska" which will be available this summer. We discuss identification, harvesting, storing and pairing mushrooms.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 450 - Mendenhall Wetlands

Tue, 27 May 2025 01:12:00 -0800

In this episode, Mary Glaves, Matt Robus, River Gates, Chris Hoon and I discuss the proposed second crossing in Juneau and its potential impact on the Mendenhall Wetlands.

We explore the historical significance and the ecological value of the Mendenhall Wetlands which is a globally important bird area and a critical stopover for migratory birds.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 449 - Homer wine

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:32:00 -0800

In this episode Louie Maurer from Bear Creek Winery in Homer and I discuss how fruits like raspberries, blueberries, and rhubarb are transformed into exquisite wines. We break down wine pairings as well as life in Homer.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 448 - Hump Island Oysters

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:02:00 -0800

Jacinda Leighton is a 2018 graduate of Ketchikan High School who earned a degree in economics from Fort Lewis College in Colorado. She is now the business manager for Hump Island Oyster Company in Ketchikan. In this episode we discuss the life cycle of oysters, farming kelp, living with passion rather than waiting to discover a passion, and the satisfaction of having a career in her hometown.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 447 - Big Wild Life

Tue, 06 May 2025 01:13:00 -0800

In this episode I preview my latest book, Big Wild Life, which will be released on Friday, May 9. The book is an account of living in Alaska that includes stories from high school, home building, teaching, travel around the state and two major themes: Alaska as a proving ground/setting for adventure and difficult elements of conservation.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 446 - Officiating basketball in Alaska

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 01:31:00 -0800

Zoe Krupa is a resident of Sitka and was recently a lead official at the 1a/2a state basketball tournament in Anchorage. In this episode we discuss growing up in Southeast, coaching vs. officiating, officiating rivalries and the time she gave her dad a technical foul.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 445 - Moose tactics and suppressors

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 01:50:00 -0800

In this episode, Tyler Freel breaks down the benefits and considerations of using suppressors and answers my questions about fly out moose hunting logistics.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 444 - Trout streams, habitat and destination fishing

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 01:58:00 -0800

Longtime resident Jon Heifetz shares his journey to Juneau, efforts to improve fish spawning habitat, his fishing adventures in Patagonia, and the evolution of techniques and equipment over the years.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 443 - Hunting with your spouse

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 01:34:00 -0800

Juneau residents Wyatt and Nani Weimer breakdown their Haul Road hunting program, their most miserable hunts as a couple, guiding fishing trips during the summer and more of their adventures in Juneau.

Episode 442 - Fly Fishing Essentials for Southeast Alaska

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 01:02:00 -0800

In this episode Cory Hansen and I walk around the Alaska Fly Fishing Goods shop and break down everything you need to know about fly fishing gear for Alaska. From fly rods, shooting heads, reels and waders, to flies, shot, nets and dry bags, we hit it all.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 441 - Outdoor skills and Alaskan Literature

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 01:30:00 -0800

Kevin Maier is an English professor at the University of Alaska Southeast. In this episode we discuss the Outdoor Skills and Leadership Certificate program at UAS. This one-year certificate offers a unique academic approach to outdoor pursuits, integrating academic inquiry with practical skills like swift water rescue and ice climbing.

We then discuss how reading classic outdoor literature, such as works by Thoreau and Hemingway, enriches outdoor experiences and informs our understanding of nature and conservation.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 440 - Writing and fishing with Douglas Paton

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 01:23:00 -0800

In this episode Douglas Paton shares his journey from aspiring video game programmer to writer contributing to magazines like National Geographic and Men's Journal. Douglas reflects on his early struggles in journalism, his move from Ontario to the scenic landscapes of British Columbia, and the immersive experiences that inspire his storytelling.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 439 - Risk assessment part 2 - The capsizing

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 01:39:00 -0800

Larry Jackson shares his story of a capsizing incident in the summer of 1996. Larry also touches on the changing landscape of marine technology, the importance of preparedness, and the risks fishermen face daily.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 438 - Blacktail Deer Foundation

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 01:20:00 -0900

In this episode Marshall Johnson discusses the challenges and triumphs of fundraising and forming new Blacktail Deer Foundation chapters in Kodiak, Sitka, and Prince of Wales. He breaks down chapter needs, conservation goals and event planning.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 437 - Alaska bison

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 01:23:00 -0900

Tom Seaton is a biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Wood Bison Project. In this episode we discuss the differences between wood bison and plains bison, biology and behavior of each, their adaptation, social behaviors, and resilience against predators.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 436 - Should Alaska go to a preference point system?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:14:00 -0900

Jaden Bales is the founder of Hunt West, a hunt preparation service for hunting in the West. In this episode we discuss the pros and cons of preference point systems that many Lower 48 states have adopted and some are attempting to modify thanks to point creep and hunter frustration. The discussion shifts to resident vs. non-resident dynamics, expectations and the funding of conservation efforts through hunting raffles and auctions which generate significant financial contributions for wildlife management.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 435 - All things blacktail deer

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 01:15:00 -0900

ADF&G biologist Ross Dorendorf talks about all things deer in Southeast Alaska. He shares insights about the impact of bad winters, carrying capacity and overall population health.

Ross breaks down the impact of poor habitat caused by same-age second growth trees and the collaborative efforts involving various agencies working to improve deer forage and hunter opportunities through targeted habitat treatment.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 434 - Hockey, steelhead and conservation with Matt Boline

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 01:04:00 -0900

Juneau resident Matt Boline and I discuss the life of a high school coach in Alaska, fishing tactics for steelhead and Trout Unlimited conservation projects in Southeast Alaska.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 433 - Risk assessment with Larry Jackson

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 01:04:00 -0900

In this episode, Larry Jackson and I talk about growing up boating in the Alaskan wilderness. We discuss how seeing tragedies impacted our risk tolerance, the unpredictability of adventure and balancing thrill and caution in the face of the wild.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.

Episode 432 - The Golden Age of outdoor media?

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 01:52:00 -0900

In this episode, writer Katie Hill discusses the complexities of outdoor writing and content creation. We talk about the evolution of outdoor media in the past 30 years, the process behind crafting stories that resonate, and how the changing dynamics of media platforms like Substack are offering exciting new opportunities for writers. Katie shares her unique perspective on the current state of the outdoor and hunting communities, emphasizing the importance of bridging divides and fostering a sense of community among diverse audiences.
Katie is the managing editor at The Westrn which will debut its newspaper this spring. Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 431 - Wired to Hunt with Mark Kenyon

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 01:53:00 -0900

In this episode, Mark Kenyon delves into his journey from high school senior to a successful outdoor enthusiast and entrepreneur. We discuss him leaving a job at Google to pursue Wired to Hunt, a platform that eventually became his career, and his book That Wild Country. Mark shares insights on making methodical life decisions, embracing challenges, and the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 430 - Seeking challenges and high income skills

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:23:00 -0900

In this episode, entrepreneur and author Danny Lehr and I discuss his first book Win Your Next Hour. We discuss high income skills, why it's important to have at least one, opportunities that come with seeking challenges, similarities between weightlifting, business, and the need for consistency and dedication across different life pursuits. Danny also talks about the importance of saying 'yes' to new experiences and how familial resilience has shaped personal endeavors.
Danny's book is available here.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 429 - Rural vs suburban education

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 02:54:00 -0900

Abby and I discuss the impact of environment, family, and friends on educational experiences. We talk about the pressure of performing in a prestigious Boston suburb where Ivy League dreams are fostered and compare it to the close-knit, resourceful communities of Alaska.

We breakdown the need for balancing academic pursuits with practical skills and the importance of nurturing curiosity and creativity amidst societal pressures and distractions.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 428 - 2024 recap: skiing, fishing, hunting and camping

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 01:06:00 -0900

In this episode Abby and I recap 2024 - skiing, camping, hiking and fishing in Juneau, fishing on Prince of Wales Island, hunting after Haleigh was born and what hunting tags we won't draw in 2025.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 427 - Flying for a living with Steve Kamm

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 01:46:00 -0900

In this episode, Seawind Aviation owner Steve Kamm shares his family's fishing history and how he found his true calling in the skies. Steve recounts his early days in Ketchikan, from carefree childhood memories of biking and baseball to the pivotal moments that steered him towards aviation.

Steve also reflects on the past and present of Ketchikan's aviation industry, the evolving aviation landscape and the unique challenges and triumphs of running a flightseeing/charter service.

Book a charter at www.seawindaviation.com/

Episode 426 - Fly out blacktail deer

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:32:00 -0900

Adam Krick and Nathan Endicott share their August blacktail deer adventure in the wild alpine of Southeast Alaska. We discuss the three years of planning, the balance between chasing the thrill of the hunt and maintaining safety.

We also discuss the complex emotions of departure, nurturing our adventurous spirit, and the profound impact these experiences have on our lives as fathers, husbands and at work.

Episode 425 - Commercial fishing and teaching with Dave White

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 01:02:00 -0900

Dave White is a retired commercial fisherman and teacher from Ketchikan. In this episode he recounts his early experiences as a novice commercial fisherman, navigating the obstacles of gillnetting and longlining. We also discuss the hardships of being in the classroom for five days then on the water for two during the edges of the school year.

Episode 424 - Goats, moose and new knees with Daniel Buitrago

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 01:29:00 -0900

Daniel Buitrago is a co-founder of Alaska Wild Project In this episode we talk about the journey to 200 podcast episodes and how creating content became second nature.

In December of 2023 Daniel had total knee replacement and then drew a coveted mountain goat tag which drove his rehab. We discuss that hunt then the moose hunt shortly thereafter. We also touch on future plans, including new hunting adventures and the exciting prospects for the Alaska Wild Project podcast.

Episode 423 - Saunas and sockeye in Seward with the Ozerkovs

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 01:40:00 -0900

Matt and Heather Ozerkov are the owners of a unique lodge and mobile sauna business in Seward, Alaska. In this episode, we discuss the challenges and joys of owning a lodge, the inspiration behind their mobile saunas, and their commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for their guests. They emphasize the importance of dreaming big, perseverance, and continuous growth. Link to Seward Saunas.   

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.  

Thanks to the sponsors: 
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)  
Alpine Fit  (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)  Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Special Episode: Island Brew Cafe

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:04:00 -0900

Sam and Lauren are the owners of Ketchikan's newest coffee place, Island Brew Cafe. In this episode we discuss their journey to the Dominican Republic to find the right coffee beans, the importance of quality ingredients in good food, bacon, breakfast burritos and other food offerings including gluten free options.

We also discuss their move from Florida to the close-knit community of Ketchikan, their vision for the cafe and how they plan to integrate their passion for food and community into this new venture.

Episode 422 - Bears, roads and resources with Bjorn Dihle

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 01:04:00 -0900

Bjorn Dihle is an accomplished writer and wildlife film guide from Juneau. In this episode Bjorn shares his journey into writing, his career as a wildlife film guide, the challenges of filming in Alaska's rugged landscapes, particularly with brown bears, and the importance of maintaining safety and respect for wildlife.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into Alaska's conservation efforts, focusing on Bjorn's involvement with Hunters and Anglers for the Brooks Range advocating against the Road to Ambler.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 421 - Mountain goat madness

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 01:37:00 -0900

Having Melissa Castle on the podcast to talk about wild Alaskan mountain goat hunts is becoming an annual thing. In this episode we recap her hunt with Marian Giannulis (another adventurous Alaskan who happened to have the tag) which involved, among other things, traversing a glacier and the billy falling off a cliff.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 420 - Fly fishing, rare trout and writing

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:04:00 -0800

Sage Marshall is a freelance journalist and writer for Field and Stream. He is also the author of Echolocation his first book. In this episode we discuss writing, clickbait content, Field and Stream’s product testing methodology, fly fishing, Gila trout and his book.

Here is the link to the Field and Stream fly rod test mentioned.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 419 - Fly out moose

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:18:00 -0800

Ryan John and I recap his fly out moose hunt in interior Alaska from September. We discuss good hunting buddies, breaking down moose, packing, hanging meat, hunting calibers and the details of the hunt itself.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 418 - All things moose

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 01:31:00 -0800

Kyle Wilkinson recaps his moose hunting program. We discuss calling, rut activity, scouting, hunting possible high-traffic areas, caliber, moose population and his successful moose hunt.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 417 - All things fly fishing

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 01:49:00 -0800

Kyle Wilkinson from Bear Paw River Guides is back to recap the summer fly fishing season. We discuss the runs and also dive into waders, fly line, wading boots, rods, reels and of course flies. If you're thinking about spending your Perm Fund check on fly fishing gear, or if you're in the Lower 48 and you're working on the Christmas list, listen to this episode.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 416 - Fly out caribou

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 01:13:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling recaps his caribou hunt, making friends at air strips, his favorite ways to eat game meat, journaling and being attacked by owls.

Episode 415 - Making the most of it

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 01:58:00 -0800

Carson Keys was born and raised in Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about leaving the state and returning. We also discuss making the most out of opportunities, favorite hunts, rain gear, and the role of advocacy groups like Safari Club International where he works.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 414 - Film, comedy and chicken

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 01:05:00 -0800

Joey Karlik grew up in Ketchikan ('18) and is a graduate of Texas ('22). After college Joey worked at Popeye's, then a mailroom and is now an assistant at a talent agency that represents comedians. In this episode we discuss his creative journey so far, favorite movies, remakes, sequels and the short film he finished and submitted to festivals this year.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 413 - Public land and sheep

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 01:55:00 -0800

Tyler Freel is a Fairbanks resident, sheep hunting veteran, gun enthusiast and staff writer for Outdoor Life. In this episode we talk about all of the above and dive into hunter access issues despite Alaska being 90% public.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 412 - Family Hunts

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 02:48:00 -0800

Brayden and Degan Linne recap their Southeast Alaska August hunting adventures. We discuss hunting in the heat, crowded fly outs, gear, finding bucks and the best time of day to find bucks.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 411 - Copper River fish

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 01:33:00 -0800

Sena and Rich Wheeler join me to talk about Sena Sea Wild Alaska Fish and 60 North Seafoods, their commercial fishing business (based out of Cordova) that encapsulates all levels of a fish sale, from catching and processing to selling and shipping. We talk about the current state of salmon runs, proper care and battling Lower 48 stereotypes regarding farmed fish.

Episode 410 - Sheep and stories

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 01:30:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling recaps his opening day walk-in sheep hunt and we discuss expectations, isolation and slowing down.

Episode 409 - The Why of hunting

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:39:00 -0800

Freelance writer Katie Hill and I discuss her start in the outdoor writing industry, the importance of nuance in the hunting conversation, hunters as "environmentalists" but not the antagonistic variety, influencers, authenticity and stories she likes to write. Katie has written for Meateater, Outdoor Life and is the managing editor of The Westrn. She was the National Deer Association's youngest and first female Signpost Communicator of the Year in 2023.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry
(Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)

Alpine Fit
(Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

Episode 408 - First hunt recap

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0800

Ryan and I recap the mixed results we had on our blacktail deer opening hunts. We discuss hunting in the heat, positioning, water, losing gear, lucky bucks and unexpectedly deploying bear spray.

Episode 407 - Deer season preview

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 01:28:00 -0800

Ryan John and I preview the beginning of the alpine hunting season in Southeast Alaska. We discuss scouting, physical fitness, tactics, coping with the rain, choosing camp locations and morning routines on the mountain.

Episode 406 - Big King Salmon and Triathlons

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 01:08:00 -0800

Tonya Busse grew up in Klawock and now teaches in Jamaica. In this episode we discuss her king salmon, triathlons, being active after high school and unruly children on planes.

Episode 405 - Island Life

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 01:04:00 -0800

In this solo episode I read a draft of one of the short essays that will appear in my next book and give the rough outline of the remarks I will make at the author's talk I will be giving at the Craig Public Library July 12, which you will not be able to hear since by the time this podcast airs, it will be over.

Episode 404 - Careers, influences and Alaskan books

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:03:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling and I breakdown telecommunications, parenting styles in the age of social media/smartphones and our favorite Alaskan books.

Episode 403 - Cruise ship life

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 01:58:00 -0800

Dante Troina is the Assistant Shore Excursions Manager for Norwegian Cruise Lines on the Norwegian Bliss, a 1000-foot, 4,600 passenger cruise ship. In this episode we discuss him leaving college for a job in the cruise lines, seeing the world, taking advantage of opportunities, organizing tourists, and the importance of networking and people skills. Dante is a 2018 graduate of Ketchikan High School.

Episode 402 - Tiny salmon streams

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 01:55:00 -0800

Trout Unlimited's Matt Boline and I recap the stream survey we did in the Juneau area earlier this month. We discuss salmon populations, spawning habitat, education and the importance of collecting information on even the smallest rivers in Southeast.

Episode 401 - David Coggins

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 01:11:00 -0800

David Coggins is the author of The Optimist and The Believer, two books about fly fishing I absolutely recommend. In this episode we discuss destination angling, expectations, changes in media, social media and audiobooks.

Episode 400 - Salmon, bears and Bristol Bay

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 01:35:00 -0800

Triston Chaney is a commercial fisherman and fly fishing guide in Dillingham. In this episode we talk about his childhood in Dillingham, how he got into guiding, the Bristol Bay Fly Fishing & Guide Academy, his favorite flies and how unpopular and destructive Pebble Mine would be.

Episode 399 - Steelhead, kings, trout and toxic spills

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 02:19:00 -0800

David Dance is a fly fishing guide and avid steelhead angler. In this episode we talk about his steelhead season, guiding in Bristol Bay, why Pebble Mine is a bad idea and catastrophic toxic spills in California and Colorado.

Episode 398 - Charter fishing in Ketchikan

Tue, 28 May 2024 02:37:00 -0800

Hannah Moody is a 2022 graduate of Ketchikan High School and charter captain. In this episode we talk about fishing for kings, getting her captain's license, why she chose a 2-year rather than 4-year university for college, people skills, docking and how clients react to a young female guide.

Episode 397 - Trout, Steelhead and Dolly Varden

Tue, 21 May 2024 02:38:00 -0800

Cory Hansen from Alaska Fly Fishing Goods (Juneau) and I talk steelhead, trout, Dolly Varden, steelhead set ups, flies, water depth, temperature and all things fly fishing.

Episode 396 - Bridge building and the Mendenhall Wetlands

Tue, 14 May 2024 02:36:00 -0800

In this episode Mary Glaves, Ryan Schuman and I discuss the latest proposals involving a second bridge from Juneau to Douglas Island through the Mendenhall Wetlands, the road to Ambler, our favorite hunts and the goals of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers.

Episode 395 - Where to eat in Southeast and Anchorage

Tue, 07 May 2024 01:03:00 -0800

In this solo episode I breakdown my favorite places to eat in Southeast Alaska as well as Anchorage. I also recommend the top sights to see for those on vacation. This is kind of a feeler episode and if it hits then I will go into more depth or do a follow-up.

Episode 394 - Snow, steelhead, grouse and tourists

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:13:00 -0800

Casey McConnell is a Hoonah resident and in this episode we talk about spring activities such as steelhead fishing, grouse hunting, assessing the snowpack and preparing for the tourism season. His family owns Glacier Wind Charters and he guides whale watching and wildlife viewing tours.

Episode 393 - Spring bear and filming hunts

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 01:26:00 -0800

Travis Boughton is a filmmaker and father of four. In this episode we recap his recently released Stone Glacier film Ursidae, calling in black bear, how to stay adventurous after becoming a father, and dealing with hunting pressure.

Episode 392 - Bush planes, hunting and photography

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 02:43:00 -0800

Kelly Reynolds is a pilot, photographer and hunter from Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about women hunters, what happens when someone is at the airstrip you intended to hunt, ethics, her 1949 Piper PA-14 and how to photograph the northern lights.

Episode 391 - The road to Ketchikan

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 01:41:00 -0800

Ty Hewitt grew up in Ketchikan then spent time in New York pursuing a career in theater. In this episode we talk about leaving home, New York City, quality of life, the journey of the 20s, coming back to Ketchikan, AI and the film The Ladder, a film shot locally in which he plays the protagonist's son.

Episode 390 - Steelhead and gardens

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 01:48:00 -0800

Abby and I discuss steelhead variables such as flow, flies and picky fish. We also get into plant growth, slug management, pollination and the satisfaction of growing your own produce to go with your game meat.

Episode 389 - Mountain goats in SE Alaska

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 01:31:00 -0800

Ross Dorendorf is a wildlife biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. In this episode we talk about all things mountain goat including habitat, management, predation, tendencies, locally introduced populations and a little about Dall sheep.

Episode 388 -Salmon habitat and dams

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 01:29:00 -0800

Marian Giannulis is the communications and engagement director for Trout Unlimited Alaska. In this episode we talk about the importance of spawning habitat for fish, restoration projects and the current situation with the Eklutna dam which blocks returning fish from what was once important spawning habitat for all five species of Pacific salmon.

Episode 387 - Fly-in mountain goat hunting

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 02:24:00 -0800

Longtime friends Melissa Castle and Nani Weimer recap their fly-in (Melissa did the flying) mountain goat hunt last fall.

Episode 386 - Beyond the Hunt audio

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 03:08:00 -0800

This episode is an audio version of Part I of my book Beyond the Hunt read by me because the cost of professional studios and readers is way too much for a small budget guy like me.

Part II (Mentors) and Part III (Life) are available for download at OnStepAlaska.com.

Part IV (Tags) and Part V (The Industry) will be available soon.

Episode 385 - Biking the Iditarod Trail

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:12:51 -0900

Jamie Hollingsworth is a faculty member at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and an avid cyclist. In 2023, he biked the Iditarod Trail (1000 miles) on a fat tire bike with a few others. In this episode we talk about cold weather biking, gear, logistics and details of the trip.

Episode 384 - Ketchikan aviation and deer hunting

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 01:20:00 -0900

Max Ludwigsen is a pilot in Ketchikan and graduate of Ketchikan High School. In this episode we talk about his aviation career path, his family's aviation history, Ketchikan history, hunting and the trusty 7-iron.

Episode 383 - Gold Rush History

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0900

Phil Wight is an assistant professor of history and northern students at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about the Gold Rush in the interior, origins of Fairbanks, con artists, the pipeline and Dalton Highway.

Episode 382 - Cold, sheep and blowing up spots

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 01:53:00 -0900

Harrison Gottschling and I talk about winter caribou hunts, dealing with the cold, sheep hunting and blowing up spots.

Episode 381 - A lifetime of fish

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 00:33:00 -0900

Rick Collins is a retired teacher, lifetime fisherman and owner of Explore Alaska Charters in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about his commercial fishing days, getting started in the charter fishing industry, technology, boats and Humpy Stew.

Episode 380 - The Land We Share

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 01:58:00 -0900

Christine Cunningham and Steve Meyer are outdoor writers who have written for the Anchorage Daily News, Alaska and other publications. In this episode we talk about hunting in Alaska, writing, compiling a book, hunting dogs and the future. Their book The Land We Share: A love affair told in hunting stories, was published last summer.

Episode 379 - Writing, eating and goal setting

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 02:11:00 -0900

Danny Lehr is the co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos, Excel Health and Fitness (Manteca, CA) and The Lifting Fix (Youtube). In this episode we talk about his new book writing project, nutrition, exercise and goal setting.

Episode 378 - An Alaskan on Shark Tank

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:48:09 -0900

Heather Kelly is the founder of Heather's Choice and makes lightweight packable meals for adventures. In this episode we recap her appearance on Shark Tank (episode aired Jan. 12) and dive into the reality of entrepreneurship.

Episode 377 - A pro running career

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 17:50:00 -0900

Isaac Updike is a 2010 graduate of Ketchikan High School who finished 3rd in the steeplechase at the United States Track and Field Championships in July. In this episode we talk about his high school running days, nutrition, shoes, injuries, and his journey to becoming a pro.

Episode 376 - Why we need adventures and sun

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 01:29:00 -0900

Abby and I kick off 2024 with a brief recap of our trip to Tucson. We discuss resolutions and the the importance of adventures in a world more and more consumed by social media and also discuss Scarcity Brain a book by Michael Easter that we listened to while we killed a 6-hour layover in Seattle.

Episode 375 - Year in Review

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 00:12:00 -0900

Abby and I recap 2023. We talk about finishing the house, building the greenhouse, planting seeds, fishing, hunting, gear and what we're looking forward to in 2024.

Episode 374 - Best of ’23

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 01:35:00 -0900

In this episode I look back at the best stuff from 2023 - gear, podcasts, packs, books and films.

Episode 373 - Trapping, mining and the draw

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:40:00 -0900

Harrison Gottschling and I discuss trapping, mining, sustainability and the Alaska draw which closes Dec. 15.

Alpine Fit

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 00:05:00 -0900

Jen Loofbourrow is founder of Alpine Fit, a gear brand based in Anchorage. In this episode we talk about the technology behind (and development of) good gear, kayak adventures, skiing and the importance of finding active groups to make winter fun.

Originally aired Feb 6, 2023

Jayleen’s Alaska

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:58:00 -0900

Jayleen Bydlon is the owner of Jayleen's Alaska which provides private whale watching tours in Juneau, Alaska. Jayleen is a lifelong resident of Juneau and started the business when she was 22-years old. In this episode we talk about business models, marketing, the tourism industry, whale attitudes and how to make it through winter.

Originally aired Oct 17, 2022

DJ’s Adventure Rentals

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 00:04:00 -0900

DJ Hansen is a life-long resident of Craig, Alaska, and owner of DJ's Alaska Adventure Rentals. In this episode we talk about growing up on Prince of Wales Island, coaching basketball, the importance of a tight-knit community and how economic opportunities have changed since we were in high school.

Originally aired Jun 27, 2022

Screaming Eagle Archery

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 00:02:00 -0900

Chris Alderman is co-owner (along with his wife) of Screaming Eagle Archery in Wasilla and Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about what you need to get started in archery, upgrades, and details about hunting moose with a bow. We also discuss caribou archery hunts and the need to be able to mentally adjust to Plans C-Z.

Originally aired June 22, 2022

Salty Lady Seafood Co.

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:01:00 -0900

Meta Mesdag is a photographer turned oyster farmer (Salty Lady Seafoods) in Juneau. In this episode we talk about her career transition, the entrepreneurship scene in Southeast Alaska, challenges brought on by Covid and bad weather, the science behind the life cycle and growing conditions or oysters.

Originally aired March 7, 2022

Alaska Fly Fishing Goods

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:56:00 -0900

Alaska Fly Fishing Goods owner Brad Elfers joins me to talk all things fly fishing in Alaska. We discuss fishing opportunities in Juneau, dissect the Kenai and Kasilof rivers, fishing with mouse patterns, steelhead flies, regionally effective flies and industry improvements in rods, reels and waders.

Originally aired Dec 15, 2021

Cycle Alaska

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:55:00 -0900

Road bike or urban bike? Mountain bike with full suspension or a hard tail? In this episode I talk with Cycle Alaska co-owner John McConnochie about the biking culture in Juneau, owning a shop, his favorite trails, selecting the style of bike that best fits your lifestyle, and how to then choose the bike that's right for you.

Originally aired Aug 11, 2021

Anchor Town Dogs

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 00:53:00 -0900

In this episode I discuss being an ambassador for the state, fishing etiquette, "necessary toys" for Alaska living and the importance of being part of, and improving the quality of, your community with Daniel Buitrago. Daniel is the owner of Anchor Town Dogs and co-founder of the Alaska Wild Project.

Originally aired July 14, 2021

Double Shovel Cider Co.

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:52:00 -0900

In this episode I talk about fly fishing for king salmon, whether or not sockeye bite flies, moose camp, float hunts, starting a business, brewing colonial dry cider, recapturing carbon and promoting sustainability with Jack Lau. Jack is a co-founder of Alaska Wild Project, co-owner of Double Shovel Cider Company.

Originally aired July 7, 2021

Heather’s Choice

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:43:00 -0900

"I wanted to put quality food in people's packs." In this episode I talk with Heather's Choice owner Heather Kelly. Heather was born and raised in Alaska and owns a dehydrated food company based in Anchorage. We talk why Alaska is worth coming back to, why nutrition is important and combatting entrepreneurial obstacles.

Originally aired Dec 19, 2019

Sagebrush Dry

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 15:39:56 -0900

John Peterka runs Sagebrush Dry in Kake, Alaska. Not exactly the hub of outdoor gear, so in this episode John and I talk business dynamics and small town life in southeast Alaska. We talk about how he arrived in Kake, how he became accepted by the community, why his latest float plane flight got turned around and of course, what makes Sagebrush Dry so special.

Originally aired 12/4/19.

Episode 372 - Uncharted Alaska

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 01:21:00 -0900

Travis and Mark are co-founders of Uncharted Alaska Distillery in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about opening a business during COVID, creating a welcoming environment, making quality products, their new location and the importance of being part of the community to make it through winter.

Episode 371 - Rut recap

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:15:00 -0900

Abby and I recap the blacktail rut season so far. We tell the stories of our three bucks, break down some tactics and review our hunting pants and hot tent.

Episode 370 - Tyler Freel

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:49:51 -0900

Tyler Freel is a staff writer for Outdoor Life and hosts the Tundra Talk podcast. In this episode we discuss why you may or may not need to upgrade your rifle, choosing a quality cartridge, shooting groups, moose camp, getting through winter and podcast merchandise.

Episode 369 - Big Ray’s

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Jessica Rostad was born and raised in Fairbanks and now is an owner of Big Ray's, the family business that opened in 1947. We talk about the history of the store, challenges that come with running a business in Alaska, competing with online websites, the tenacity that comes with growing up in Alaska, 30-inch rainbow trout and the upcoming Black Friday specials at the Big Ray's stores.

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Episode 368.5 - Archive special: Calling deer

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 23:00:00 -0800

One of the most popular podcasts I've done was how to call blacktail deer with the Drop Shot Calls guys at their place in Craig. So here it is, everything you want to know about making calls and calling deer in Southeast Alaska.

Episode 68 (Nov. 25, 2018) - I visited the Drop Shot Calls workbench to talk about how they got started, what makes a good call, when you should call, how long you should wait and what works for them. We also talk about the right tools for the job, rut tactics, and the future of the resource.

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Episode 368 - Adventure ready, Alaska-based apparel

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Jen Loofbourrow is back to talk more about her award-winning, Alaska-owned business Alpine Fit. We discuss outdoor technology, entrepreneurial issues involving obtaining start-up money, outdoor recreation pairings, the importance of living the lifestyle rather than just running a business, why it's important to stay Alaskan rather than move to an industry hub and upcoming events.

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Episode 367 - Interior grizzlies and Afognak elk

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Emily Thompson recaps her grizzly bear and elk hunts. We also discuss getting started in hunting, mentorship, the Alaska lifestyle and pushing yourself.

Emily lives in Anchorage and is a member of the Anchorage Fire Department.

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Episode 366 - Guiding trout and hunting moose

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Kyle Wilkinson and I recap his summer guiding season in the Mat-Su Valley. We discuss reading rivers, fishing effectively, losing flies and reading clients. Then we recap his moose hunt that had him counting brow tines at 30 yards.

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Episode 365- Last minute moose

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:58:00 -0800

Brandon Fifield tells the story of his last minute moose opportunity. Brandon is a member of Alaska Wild Project and a resident of Anchorage.

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Episode 364 - Sheep and moose recap

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Casey McConnell and I recap his sheep and moose hunt. We also talk about blacktail plans, pre-rut, rut, dates, tactics and observations from previous seasons. Casey is a resident of Hoonah and probably the most intense e-scouter I know.

Purchase my book Beyond the Hunt at OnStepAlaska.com or on Amazon.

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Episode 363 - Field (and ocean) to table

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about our favorite game and fish meals - from mountain goat tenderloin and blacktail heart tacos to Vietnamese mule deer sausage, halibut tacos to miso and sesame garlic salmon.

Purchase my latest book Beyond the Hunt at OnStepAlaska.com or on Amazon.

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Episode 362 - Caribou recap

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 18:45:00 -0800

Ryan, Abby and I recap last week's caribou hunt. We tell the story, talk gear, weather, caribou habits, hunting pace, adhering to shooting caps and shuttling meat.

Purchase my latest book Beyond the Hunt at OnStepAlaska.com or on Amazon.

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Episode 361 - Caribou preview

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby, Ryan and I talk food, calories per ounce, gear, weather and field judging caribou as we preview the caribou hunt we will be on when this episode releases.

Purchase my latest book Beyond the Hunt at OnStepAlaska.com or on Amazon.

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Episode 360 - Mountain goat madness

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I recap the mountain goat hunt I was sure would end in failure. We discuss the downs of the alpine season, impacts of weather, goat and deer habitat overlap, fog, stalks, frustration and the rugged nature of mountain goats.

Purchase my latest book Beyond the Hunt at OnStepAlaska.com or on Amazon.

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Episode 359.5 - Blacktail recap: ”When we go back...”

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Ketchikan residents Jake Rodgers and Ryan John recap their memorably miserable pack out after taking two big blacktail bucks in mid-August. We discuss best time of day to find bucks, how Jake keeps finding big bucks, the willingness to return to brutal areas and hitting weather windows.

.5 episodes are bonus Thursday episodes meant to keep the release closer to the event and provide a better sense of time.

For more about hunting, the hunting industry and content creation, my latest book Beyond the Hunt is available at OnStepAlaska.com, Amazon and local bookstores in Southeast Alaska.

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Episode 359 - Blacktail recap and sheep preview

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Casey McConnell and I recap the first weeks of blacktail season and preview his sheep hunt. We discuss deer tactics, gear and how they are similar and dissimilar in a sheep hunting program.

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Episode 358 - Hunting approval in decline?

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode, Andrew McKean and I discuss a survey that found worrisome trends regarding public approval of hunting. We also discuss mentorship, influence and how a shift in hunting terminology from "trophy hunting" to "organic meat procurement" has not really had the expected effect on public approval. McKean is the hunting and conservation editor at Outdoor Life. His article about the survey is available at Outdoorlife.com.

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Episode 357 - Degrees of failure

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0800

After a week of rain, it was so nice to see the mountains again and I tore off up one to hunt. It was a short weather window but I had a few chances. In this episode I recap two encounters with bucks and some simple things that help me cope when hunts turn miserable.

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Episode 356 - All things archery with Brian Barney

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Brian Barney is the host of Eastmans' Elevated and the co-host of Life of a Bowhunter. In this episode we talk about breaking in bows, practice, pairing arrows, learning from mistakes, hunting a variety of species and the importance of a productive mindset.

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Episode 355.5 - Danny’s first hunt

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 13:37:00 -0800

Danny and I recap his first ever deer hunt.

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Episode 355 - Deer preview with Danny Lehr

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Danny Lehr is co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos a weightlifting/coffee lifestyle brand. In this episode we preview his first ever deer hunt.

Danny and I have been friends since we taught high school together in California before I moved back to Alaska. This is his fourth trip to Alaska, but first hunt.

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Episode 354 - Inspiration, growth and hunting film scores

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Luke Dusenbury is an outdoor filmmaker who has worked with GoHunt, Leupold and others. In this episode we talk about the importance of growth, seeds of inspiration, music selection and how he almost became a teacher.

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Episode 353 - Blacktail deer with the Linne brothers

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Ketchikan high school graduates Brayden (2019) and Degan (2022) Linne talk about growing up in Ketchikan, their first deer hunts, tennis shoes in the alpine, upgrading packs, figuring out deer habitat and habits, missed opportunities and shooting big bucks.

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Episode 352 - Caribou preview

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Ryan John and I do an initial preview of our caribou hunt this September. We talk gear, expectations, weight, hot tents, picking up other tags (moose and sheep) just incase and me attempting my first hunting film.

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Episode 351 - Deer scouting

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about our gear fixes, needs and considerations as we recap our first deer scouting trip of the summer.

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Episode 350 - Hunting opportunities, mindset and sheep

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling and I talk about hunt opportunities in Alaska, talking to biologists, hunting mindset, building homes and preview his sheep hunt.

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Episode 349 - Anchorage, Mat-Su Valley and Denali recap

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about the food, camping and fishing during our trip to Anchorage/Mat-Su Valley/Denali last week. Huge thanks to everyone who came out to the book release party at Double Shovel Cider Co. in Anchorage and to Double Shovel for hosting.

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Episode 348 - Deer, hypothermia and pressure

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Nathan Endicott is back to talk about muskegs, habitat, habits, hypothermia, making films, adjusting to hunting pressure, hunting new spots and how he defines his contribution to the hunting creative community.

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Episode 347 - Summer bod shape

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0800

In this solo episode I talk about the physically and mentally demanding nature of summers in Alaska. I also talk about my fishing history with my brother, how his career in the military has necessitated sacrifice on his part and that of his wife, and getting to the point when you start appreciating family, health and experiences more.

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Episode 346 - Southeast Alaska trout and salmon

Tue, 30 May 2023 17:07:00 -0800

Juneau resident Matt Boline and I talk about trout, salmon, steelhead, fly fishing and the importance of habitat to ensure Alaska doesn't suffer the same fate as many once-legendary coastal rivers of the Lower 48.

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Episode 345 - Spring bear tips

Mon, 22 May 2023 23:00:00 -0800

In this solo episode I talk about scouting tidal flats, anchoring logistics, gauging tides and gear.

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Episode 344 - Building, bears and Belize

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling and I talk about manifesting dreams, building homes, spring black bear, internet trolls and fishing in Belize.

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Episode 343 - The Hunter’s Quest

Mon, 08 May 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Hunter McWaters grew up hunting back east but it wasn't until he hunted Alaska a few years ago that he caught a serious western hunting bug. In this episode we talk about traveling to hunt, being guests in other states, hunter recruitment and how Alaska gets into you.

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Episode 342 - Spring steelhead

Mon, 01 May 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about steelhead appreciation after two straight weekends of chasing them. We also talk about the potentially dire future for fish in general, valuing experiences and do a little previewing of spring black bear season which is underway.

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Episode 341 - Creativity and criticism

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Travis Boughton is a filmmaker for Stone Glacier. His latest film Rain Likely about an Alaska caribou hunt was released last month. In this episode we talk about that hunt, but also getting started in the content industry, editing, handling criticism, growth and staying true to yourself.

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Episode 340 - Trawl fleet bycatch

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Jon Warrenchuk is a fisheries scientist and advocate for oceanic habitat preservation. In this episode we talk about the devastating efficiency of the Pacific trawl fleet in comparison to other commercial fishing methods such as trollers and seiners. We discuss the bycatch impact on halibut, cod and Chinook salmon, what it means going forward and what we can do, if anything, at this point.

Episode 339 - Hunting and storytelling tips

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Nathan Endicott hunts all across the west and has a growing YouTube presence. In this episode we talk about foundational hunting lessons, filming hunts, using manual settings on cameras, telling good stories and what's coming up next.

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Episode 338 - Producing a hunting film

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Argali founder Brad Brooks and I talk about producing a hunting film. Rather than just gear and shots, we dive into storytelling, style, influences, background, length authenticity and the difference between a person and a host.

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Episode 337 - Hunting and flying

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Melissa Castle is back to talk about her latest adventure - earning her pilots license. In this episode we talk about aviation, flying in floatplanes for sports growing up, deer hunts, elk hunts, mountain goat hunts and floating rivers.

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Episode 336 - Winter, caribou and sharing spots

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling and I discuss morning routines, the 40-mile caribou herd, family vacations and what constitutes oversharing as it pertains to hunting spots.

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Episode 335 - Fly fishing and hunting

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0800

Katie Burgert is the host of Fish Untamed, a podcast about all things fishing. In this episode we talk about fly fishing, podcasting, keeping things secret, hunting ducks and fishing styles.

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Episode 334 - Stories, boats and education

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Will Collins is a canoeing fanatic and the host of the Buffalo Roamer Podcast. In this episode we talk about fishing, boats, podcasting, education and the farm life in Illinois.

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Episode 333 - House closing and disposable phones

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Closed on the house so this episode is a brief recap of key areas to help keep costs down, unique challenges of building in Southeast Alaska, the ridiculously common breakdown of phones and computers and why brand new gear on hunting films isn't a good selling point.

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Episode 332 - Tell stories, don’t make content

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0900

In this solo episode I think about what makes podcasts, films and writing work. Often times we oversimplify the recipe and end up creating content for the purpose of talking about ourselves rather than telling an interesting story. The best stuff is done by people who expose themselves to high-achievers and prolific creators rather than achieve a comfortable level and coast.

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Episode 331 - Industry Art

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Travis Thomas is a 4th grade teacher and artist in Utah. In this episode we talk about having a rewarding career, buying gear, the weird world of online promotion, favorite hunts and positively impacting students.

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Episode 330 - Alpine Fit

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Episode 329 - A voice in the industry

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Danny Lehr is co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos, a weightlifting and coffee lifestyle brand. In this episode we talk about having a voice in an industry, defining standards, priorities and authenticity.

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Episode 328 - Outdoor writing

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0900

Joseph Jackson is the author of the new book It's Only Fishing which was released in January. In this episode we talk about fly fishing, content inspiration, getting published and storytelling for an audience vs. telling inside jokes to buddies.

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Episode 327 - Alone

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode my wife and I discuss the show Alone. We cover the types of strategies, performative filming, starvation and why she thinks I'd burn down the shelter after only a few days.

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Episode 326 - Fly fishing home and new water

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Kyle Wilkinson (Young Guides Podcast) and I talk about hunting and fly fishing films, 'slams', attitudes and epic trips vs. the hometown favorite.

Episode 325 - Archery in Alaska

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 23:00:00 -0900

Chris Alderman is back to talk more about archery in Alaska. He and his wife own Screaming Eagle Archery in Wasilla and Fairbanks. We talk about bow technology, set ups, "tested in Alaska" vs. owned by an Alaskan, recent snow storms, moose, marketing in the industry and the best gear for hunts.

Episode 324 - Best of ’22; Caribou recap

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Ryan John and I recap our caribou hunt on the North Slope. We talk expectations, tundra, out-of-state-hunters, and common sense safety.

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Episode 323 - Best of ’22: Rokslide’s Robby Denning

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Robby Denning is a co-owner of Rokslide, the comprehensive hunting website. In this episode we talk about the purpose of Rokslide, filling the needs of hunters, the current state of hunting, turning non-hunters into pro-hunters rather than anti-hunters, the value of conservation groups like RMEF and even a little fishing.

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Episode 322 - Best of ’22: Alaska Outdoor Girl

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Erika Smith is known in the social media world as AlaskaOutDoorGirl. In this episode we talk about skiing, fishing, the dating scene in Alaska, coping with winter, growing your community and how long we'd last on Alone.

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Episode 321 - Best of ’22: Commercial Fishing and SE Highlights

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Ketchikan High School graduate and entrepreneur Isaiah Navales and I talk about lessons from commercial fishing, favorite ways to eat fish, the value in leaving home and coming back on your own terms, basketball memories and the strength of Alaskan communities.

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Episode 320 - Beyond the Hunt

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode I update the progress of my upcoming book Beyond the Hunt. I give a synopsis of the publishing process, the book itself and just how much work goes into it.

Since I am in the last edits and we are also busy with finishing the house (in addition to our full time jobs), I'm going to be publishing the Top 4 episodes of 2022 to finish off the year.

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Episode 319 - Where do we go from here?

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Harrison Gottschling and I are firm advocates for hunters making hunts happen and outdoor entrepreneurs helping others by providing valuable insight for those looking for new experiences. In this episode, we discuss the potential unintended consequences of such valuable resources being so readily available, not to advocate against them, but as a way of thinking through potential pitfalls in order to avoid them. We talk about hunting mindset, desperation, how a hunt changes as a result of population and pressure, the misconception that services like GoHunt, Rokslide or Huntin' Fool ruin hunting, the stupidity behind the "must be nice" attitude and how if I won the Powerball lottery I'd buy a ranch in Wyoming and only let my friends hunt it...just like those tycoons we resent.

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Episode 318 - Blacktail rut lesson

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0900

In this solo episode I recap my last hunt of the season and what I believe it was that made the difference. I have been hunting a high-traffic, close to town area and had to figure out a way to put myself in a position to have success since there was sign, rubs and a few bucks every few days on my game cameras. Saturday it came together and I took my second blacktail of the season on the second to the last day I could hunt.

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Episode 317 - Gear for Southeast Alaska

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Hoonah resident Casey McConnell and I talk about gear, terrain differences between the Brooks Range and Southeast Alaska, judging sheep, hunting blacktail, Wyoming elk and hunting pressure.

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Episode 316 - Oregon elk success

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Paisley Wortman and Tyler Bennett recap their Oregon elk success. Paisley grew up in Craig, Alaska, and her bull was her first with her bow. Tyler is a resident of Oregon and has been hunting elk since he was young. In this episode we break down the hunt and discuss lessons learned, the value of persistence, taking good shots and the importance of practice.

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Episode 315 - Rut success breakdown

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Abby and I recap the successful hunt on Saturday. We talk about getting to less pressured locations, Plan A vs. Plan B, Western hunting vs. Alaska hunting, terrain and tips for people looking to DIY.

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Episode 314 - More mountain goats

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Skagway resident Adam Smith and I discuss hunting mountain goats in Southeast Alaska, proposals to prevent population decline, blowing up spots, social media use and sewing.

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Episode 313 -Telling grizzly and salmon stories

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Kris Millgate is CEO of Tight Line Media, author of My Place Among Men, My Place Among Fish and was nominated for an Emmy for her film about the 850-mile salmon migration from the ocean to Idaho. In this episode we talk about her path from shyness to successful storyteller, the difference between uncomfortable and unsafe, overcoming challenges and the editing process.

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Episode 312 - Whales and entrepreneurship

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0800

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Episode 311 - Making big hunts happen

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Jaden Bales is back to talk about his newest entrepreneurial endeavor and recap his hunting season so far. We talk about helping people make the most out of opportunities, mindset on familiar and new hunts and hunting with our significant others.

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Episode 310 - When does rut start?

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 18:02:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about the upcoming Sitka blacktail deer rut season. We discuss tactics, observations, contradictions, when to call, having confidence and being patient.

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Episode 309 - Moose floats, caribou and oosik

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Alaska Wild Project's Daniel Buitrago and I discuss dialing in hunts, moose floats, caribou herd shifts, collecting sheds and mentoring.

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Episode 308 - Mountain goat recap

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I recap the weekend mountain goat hunt. We discuss hunting mentalities, favorite foods, mentors and impressionable hunts.

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Episode 307 - How to film a hunt

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0800

John Abernathey is the man behind the Destination Elk camera. Fresh off filming Corey Jacobsen and Donnie Drake's elk hunt in Alaska, John and I talk angles, gear, editing, software and tips for filming hunts. We discuss GoPro audio, DSLRs, filming in the rain, and what happens when Corey goes into predator mode.

This episode originally aired last September, but it's one of the most popular and since it's filming season, I'm re-releasing this excellent episode with John.

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Episode 306 - Fishing in Southeast Alaska

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0800

From the crow's nest in Larry Jackson's Ketchikan cabin, we talk about the evolution/history of charter fishing, technology, methods, coho and king salmon populations, boats and the time a boat he was on capsized.

Episode 305 - Sheep and moose camp

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Alaska Wild Project's Brandon Fifield is back to talk about his latest sheep trip and upcoming moose hunt. We discuss sacrificing hunt time to help others, mindset going into difficult hunts, tantrums, minimalist mountain hunts vs. heavy gear low elevation hunts and how ranking hunts is impossible.

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Episode 304 - Blacktail recap #1

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode Abby and I recap her first ever Sitka blacktail deer success. We discuss hunting pressure, ethics, hunting in the heat and food cravings.

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Episode 303 - Caribou ’22 Recap

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Ryan John and I recap our caribou hunt on the North Slope. We talk expectations, tundra, out-of-state-hunters, and common sense safety.

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Episode 302 - Floating the Canadian Yukon

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Will Collins is back to recap his 8-day canoe trip on a Canadian section of the Yukon River. We talk about logistics, hospitality, mindset and pairing literature with adventure.

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Episode 301 - Preview: Sitka Blacktail

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I talk about hunting weather windows, terrain, habitat, deer food, food made from deer and our plan for hunting. We also talk a little more about my caribou hunt and why I don't want to share too much about where I'm going.

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Episode 300 - What mediocre means

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0800

I almost changed the name of the podcast because contemporary society's obsession with the removal of challenges and acceptance of underachieving. I reject the sentiment that a life free of physical and mental challenges is what we should strive for and that seeking them is toxic masculinity. When I used "mediocre" the intent was to resonate with those who have worked through, or who are currently battling to improve. No one starts out an expert. This podcasts is for the grinders, the workers and the doers who are honest about the lows and struggles.

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Episode 299 - Preview: Brooks Range caribou

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Ryan John and I preview our caribou hunt in the Brooks Range. We discuss expectations,, gear and how hunts differ around the state.

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Episode 298 - Gear for Alaska

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Ketchikan resident Ryan John and I go through our gear for Southeast Alaska blacktail, most of which we will be using on our caribou trip next week. We talk bows, optics, trekking pole, the whole works. Most of the popular brands are quality so decisions like packs are completely personal. Just because I use Stone Glacier or replaced my Sitka rain pants with Black Diamond, doesn't mean that is the way to go. If you're in the market for gear, try on what you can, ask around, read and listen to people who use certain items. Unless you are sponsored, it might take a few years to put together your set up through trial and error or just thanks to sheer expense. My sleeping bag is 17 years old and my cold, wet weather rut hunting gear is Cabela's circa 2008.

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Episode 297 - Outdoor education

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Matthew Clark who is leaving GoHUNT to become a high school English teacher. I field a couple questions about teaching and we discuss how often people in the outdoor content industry talk about unfortunate educational experiences. We talk about the importance of rejuvenating hobbies like fishing and hunting to prime people for the work week and give them something to look forward to.

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Episode 296 - Caribou hunting and cabin building

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling is back to talk about his cabin building project and early season caribou hunting. We discuss food, gear, overthinking, and other caribou hunting considerations.

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Episode 295 - Bear encounters and content making

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Alaskan Erika Smith is back to talk influencing people vs. being, or trying to be an "influencer," brown bear encounters, the importance of practicing bear defense devices (10mm and bear spray), salmon burger recipes and the difference between writing stress and content making stress.

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Episode 294 - Summer on Prince of Wales

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I recap our time on Prince of Wales before heading back to the big city of Ketchikan. We talk about the highlights of the last month, king salmon fishing, forest service cabins and the benefits of being rural.

Note: My family moved to Prince of Wales in 1986. In June, mom sold the house and thus ended our time on POW. Abby and I will still visit friends from our home in Ketchikan, but it is the end of an era for sure.

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Episode 293 - Does a point system make sense for Alaska?

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Jaden Bales has spent years understanding, explaining and navigating Lower 48 point systems as a Wyoming resident. In this episode we talk about the pros and cons of draws, points and other ways states regulate hunting opportunities. We also talk about coping with cold during hunts, being in shape and hot tents.

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Episode 292 - Alaska caribou and travel ethics

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0800

GoHunt's Chris Neville talks about his 2021 Alaska caribou hunt (a hunt no longer available to non-federally qualified hunters), travel ethics, gear and the impact of content and social media on hunting.

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Episode 291 - Spring Bear recap and gear

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I recap the spring bear season, a few tips about gear, tactics and look forward to fall bear, with caribou and blacktail in-between.

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Episode 290 - Prince of Wales born and raised

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

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Episode 289 - Archery set ups and moose hunting

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

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Episode 288 - The value of physical challenges

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Danny Lehr is co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos lifestyle brand and is the friend everyone needs. He's a doer who pushes himself and encourages others, but not in a cheesy or Ponzi-scheme sort of way. In this episode we talk about trying new things, taking risks and staying honest.

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Episode 287 - Father’s Day

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

The first Father's Day without Dad was a tough one, but they get easier over the years. In this episode I talk about my first year without him and how things have changed since he passed in 2009.

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Episode 286 - All things backpacking

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Emory Wanger is an outdoor writer, blogger and photographer. In this episode we talk about writing about about the right mindset for backpacking, helping others and our favorite gear.

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Episode 285 - Hunting and fishing in SE Alaska

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Larry Jackson is the owner of Bare Boat Alaska. He has been a commercial fisherman, charter fisherman, teacher, entrepreneur and now rents boats and his maintains his rental cabin. In this episode we talk about the beauty of Alaska on your own terms and what's changed in all his years as a resident.

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Episode 284 - Ketchikan born and raised

Mon, 30 May 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Kody Malouf is a product of Ketchikan through and through. He is finishing college at Northern Arizona University. In this episode we talk about growing up in the tourism business, the good and bad of growing up in a small town on an island in Southeast Alaska and pursuing a journalism career.

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Episode 283 - Warm water fly fishing and conservation

Mon, 23 May 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Nick Roberts is editor of Bonefish & Tarpon Journal and is the Director of Marketing and Communications for Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. In this episode we talk about sight fishing for redfish, tarpon and bonefish. We also get into the need to think about sustainability, responsibility and the inability for anglers and hunters to be on the sidelines as political and environmental issues become more important.

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Episode 282 - Canoeing the Yukon

Mon, 16 May 2022 23:00:00 -0800

I don't trust canoes. Well, I don't trust myself in canoes. Will Collins trusts himself enough to have canoed the Yukon, Grand Canyon and Mississippi. In this episode I talk with him about canoeing, adventuring, his podcast and the the best part of long trips down big rivers.

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Episode 281 - What is life really like in SE Alaska?

Mon, 09 May 2022 23:00:00 -0800

This episode was spawned by an email from a visitor to our website. There were questions about sustainability, salmon populations, small town BS, and general health. So Abby and I answer the questions and attempt to provide a little more context to living in Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska.

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Episode 280 - How to make good products

Mon, 02 May 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Brad Brooks is founder of Argali, a small (but expanding), deliberate company that makes game bags, knives, belts and now tents. In this episode we talk about diligence and patience when creating products, sunk costs, taking risks, whether or not modern hunters are too caught up with needless suffering and what hunting icons would think of our modern technology.

Make sure to check out the latest films from Brad's hunts in Alaska on Argali's YouTube channel.

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Episode 279 - Creating good content with Trent Fisher

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Trent Fisher is co-founder of Born and Raised Outdoors. In this episode we talk about going all-in on an entrepreneurial endeavor, avoiding pitfalls, making the math work, mentoring, why creators should help other creators rather than see them as competition and of course, elk and bear hunting.

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Episode 278 - Alaska Wild Project

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0800

The guys over at Alaska Wild Project are celebrating one year as a podcast, so I had them on to talk about what they've learned.

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Episode 277 - Bear hunting in SE Alaska

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0800

In this special episode, Brandon Purcell previews Stone Glacier's film "Tide Swing" which drops April 20. We talk about hunting in Alaska, expectations, preparation, the guide life and of course black bear hunting.

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Episode 276 - Guiding fishing trips in the Mat-Su Valley

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Kyle Wilkinson from The Young Guides Podcast. We discuss the early season trout opportunities outside of Anchorage, then get into fishing methods for fishing trout and salmon along the Parks Highway north of Anchorage. Kyle shares what it's been like to start guiding, effective rigs, the best flies and Western rivers that are on his list.

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Episode 275 - Fishing, foraging and writing

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Dylan Tomine is the author of Closer to the Ground, a through-the-seasons look at fishing and foraging in Washington. In this episode we talk about protecting resources, shifting baselines, having difficult conversations, the threats caused by polarization, steelhead and legendary fly fishing authors. Tomine's new book Headwaters is available for pre-order and will be released later in April.

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Episode 274 - Rokslide’s Robby Denning

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0800

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Episode 273 - Ice fishing and being frugal

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Minnesota resident Dan Platta is the host of the Bookkeeping, Beers and BS podcast. In his show he talks about being successful in business, but he also loves hunting whitetail and ice fishing. In this episode we talk about the balance of getting what you need vs. buying a bunch of stuff. We also talk about new experiences, mentoring others and the balance of being willing to get after it, but also not be an idiot.

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Episode 272 - Alaska Hoops pt. 3 - Rich Krupa

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Rich Krupa grew up in North Pole Alaska, played college basketball at Sheldon Jackson College in Sitka, met his wife, and never left. His daughter played at Sitka High School while he was an assistant coach and she went on to play at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about college basketball in Alaska, the college basketball recruiting scene, the downside of trying to "be seen", recruiting services, and adjusting to team dynamics as a coach.

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Episode 271 - Alaska Hoops pt. 2 - Robert Casperson

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Rob Casperson is the head coach of the Juneau-Douglas boys basketball team. He grew up in Juneau and played for the team that lost to future NBA player Trajan Langdon's East Anchorage team in the state finals, and was later a teammate of Alaska's next NBA player - Carlos Boozer. In this episode we talk about adapting a system to match players, Alaska's talent pool, recruiting, dramatic finishes and how 4a basketball has changed around the state.

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Episode 270 - Alaska Hoops pt. 1 - Kelly Smith

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0800

Kelly Smith grew up on Prince of Wales Island and played basketball for Thorne Bay and Craig in the mid-1990s. He is now the head coach of the Ketchikan High School girls basketball team which as won the Region V title eight out of the last nine years. In this episode we talk about the transition to coaching girls, building a program and island life.

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Episode 269 - Oyster farming in Alaska

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Episode 268 - Finding your fish

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Pete Kaple is the man behind The Skiff Wanderer on Instagram and Youtube. He is an avid angler and budding filmmaker in Texas. In this episode we talk about how the first fish you catch is often the fish you chase for the rest of your life. We also discuss branching out to pursue other species, the skiff live in Alaska vs. the skiff life in Texas and considerations when building a brand. Also, there is NOT ONE "Alaska is bigger than Texas" joke. See, we can all get along.

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Episode 267 - Bristol Bay grizzly gear adventures

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Caleb Jacques runs guided grizzly bear photography adventures in Katmai. In this episode we talk about his family lodge transitioning from a fishing lodge to a photography safari lodge. We discuss bear skills, photography skills and food cravings after being in rural country for extended periods of time.

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Episode 266 - Commercial fishing and SE Alaska highlights

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Kayhi graduate and entrepreneur Isaiah Navales and I talk about lessons from commercial fishing, favorite ways to eat fish, the value in leaving home and coming back on your own terms, basketball memories and the strength of Alaskan communities.

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Episode 265 - SE Alaska gold rush and basketball history

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Ketchikan Mayor Dave Kiffer and I talk Southeast Alaska history from Parnassus Books in downtown Ketchikan. We start off with agriculture and gold rush then move to the great Region V basketball rivalries. If you want to know what life is like in Southeast Alaska, this is a quality glimpse. If you live here, it'll bring back memories.

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Episode 264 - Life of an Avatar

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0900

In this solo episode I expand on some of the things I wrote about in my blog post about being on the other end of an entrepreneur's quest to make money. I talk about what used to work on me and why it doesn't anymore. I talk about how Meateater's proliferation has made me lose interest in the brand even though I love the show, how brands exploit the enthusiasm of users and how something as simple as a social media post can be the tie-breaker when choosing between brands.

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Episode 263 - Transferrable skills and doing what you love

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0900

T.K. Coleman is an entrepreneur with incredible insight about education, entrepreneurship and personal growth. In this episode we talk about developing professional skills, finding space in saturated markets, being a multi-dimensional thinker, how to approach the pursuit of lofty goals and unique opportunities after high school that don't involve college,

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Episode 262 - How do Alaska kids stack up?

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode I talk to the 2018 Ketchikan High School Valedictorian, Largim Zhuta, about leaving a small town on an island in Alaska, to pursue a mechanical engineering degree at Santa Clara University. We talk about what happens when you're surrounded by Valedictorians, paying for college, energy production and storage, and the difference between working on solutions for problems and working on ways to make money off people.

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Episode 261 - Custom home building in SE Alaska

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Larry Jackson and I talk about winters in Ketchikan and custom home building from the wheelhouse in his custom home. Larry used repurposed wood from around town, rocks from local beaches along with other local inspiration to building his home. He and I talk about the dynamics of designing and building a home, as well as the stress of having a dock during a winter storm, especially a storm took out the ramp and pier last year. (Photo is from the summer before that disaster)

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Episode 260 - Alaska Outdoor Girl

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 23:00:00 -0900

Episode 259 - Best of 2021 - Sheep and bears with Tyler Freel

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

To close out the year, I found two of the best from dozens of great episodes with great guests. In this episode Outdoor Life writer and Tundra Talk host Tyler Freel and I talk about grizzly bear hunting, processing black bear, archery, protecting public land and how some hunts never get old.

This podcast was first released in April.

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Episode 258 - Best of 2021 - Alaska Bison

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 06:25:00 -0900

To close out the year, I found two of the best from dozens of great episodes with great guests. In this episode I talk to fellow product of Prince of Wales, Melissa Castle, who took a bison in interior Alaska. We talk about her upbringing in Craig, the best parts of living in Anchorage and the details of her hunt.

This episode was released in April.

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Episode 257 - Fly fishing in Alaska

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Episode 256 - Best of the year

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode Abby and I recap our top fishing, hunting and camping moments of the year. We also discuss making moves on mountain goats in the fog, rainbow trout on the Kenai, Wyoming mule deer, boat camping, hunting pressure, hunting strategies and home building.

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Episode 255 - From teacher to big game guide

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Tongass Talk co-host Adam Krick went from teacher in Alaska to big game guide in Alaska. In this episode we talk about if teaching is like guiding, similarities between hunting Alaska and hunting the Lower 48, how to hunt crowded areas, the benefits of being on the road system and plans for 2022.

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Episode 254 - Being a hunter vs. looking like one

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Jason Holliday joins me to talk about finding public land to hang your stand back east. We also discuss outdoor entrepreneurs that sound like used-car salesmen, the value of authenticity and maintaining consistency when doing a podcast.

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Episode 253 - What I learned hunting big game in 2021

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this solo episode I recap lessons learned from my caribou, brown bear, elk, mule deer and blacktail deer hunts in 2021.

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Episode 252 - Hydroponic farming in Ketchikan

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode I talk to Geoff and Jessica Jans who own Ketchikan Ever Greens, a hydroponic farm in Ketchikan. We talk about how they got started, why they got started, the benefits of hydroponics and why real fresh garden greens are more healthy than greens picked early to be shipped "fresh".

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Episode 251 - Blacktail, caribou and moose recap with Brad Brooks

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Argali founder Brad Brooks is back to recap his 6-week Alaskan adventure where he attempted to take a blacktail deer, caribou and moose with his bow. We talk about stalking blacktail vs. stalking mule deer, lessons learned and being alone with your thoughts.

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Episode 250 - Eating wild game and creating advocates

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Clint Whitley is an archery hunting fanatic and the host of Western Hunting Hub. He and I talk about what happens when people lose their minds on social media forums, creating advocates, not enemies, hunting whitetail and our favorite recipes for wild game.

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Episode 249 - Finally, a buck

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode Abby and I break down our success over the weekend. We talk about hunting muskegs, calling, the difference in deer response in high traffic areas and low traffic areas, difficulties in filming hunts, plans for this weekend and a new venison recipe.

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Episode 248 - The next generation of hunters and anglers

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode Daniel Buitrago and I talk about the world before podcasts, social media and the Internet, the defining attributes of people we looked up to growing up, the value being outside brings to our lives, the importance of sharing that with the next generation, the impact of climate change, the future of populations, draw hunt strategies and what hunts we hope we draw in 2022.

Daniel is a co-founder of Alaska Wild Project and owner of Anchor Town Dogs in Anchorage.

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Episode 247 - Food, houses and the plan for peak rut

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

In this episode Abby and I talk about different ways to cook wild game meat, salmon chowder, the housing market in Ketchikan and the plan for hunting this weekend.

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Episode 246 - Kodiak mountain goat recap

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0900

Juneau resident Dallin Hanchett is back to recap his Kodiak mountain goat hunt we previewed in Episode 233. We discuss the weather, elevation, brown bears, how to get mentally prepared each morning when everything is wet and cold, the helpful attitude of rural residents, savoring game meat to make it last and where this hunt ranks on his all-time list.

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Episode 245 - Rut is on

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I discuss the first big weekend of Sitka Blacktail rut in the Ketchikan area. We talk about our unsuccessful weekend, beach hunting, setting anchors, hunting forums, how to feel when it seems like everyone else in Southeast Alaska called in a buck over the weekend, and what the plan is for this weekend.

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Episode 244 - Deer hunting and Bigfoot’s legitimacy

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Ian Hudson and I discuss calling styles including grunts, rattling and bleats for Sitka blacktail deer, hunting high-traffic areas, and whether or not bigfoot exists. If it did, it would be here, but is it? Ian is a co-host of the Tongass Talk podcast and a resident of Metlakatla, Alaska.

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Episode 243 - Moose camp breakdown

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Jack Lau (Alaska Wild Project and Double Shovel Cider Co.) is back to break down his moose camp. We talk about luxuries vs. necessities, expected daily mileage while hunting moose, what to look for when scouting a spot, archery set ups, fall fly fishing and promoting healthy eating habits.

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Episode 242 - Sheep, moose and caribou with Tyler Freel

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Newly minted Outdoor Life staff writer Tyler Freel joins me to talk about podcast analytics, his late summer and fall hunting trips, fly-in sheep hunts, getting weathered in, how to handle getting corked by entitled hunters, finding new friends on a Haul Road archery hunt, having a "portfolio of spots" and what makes good hunting shows.

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Episode 241 - Wyoming elk and mule deer recap

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

My wife and I recap her elk and mule deer hunts from last month. We talk about our summer scouting, her encounters while solo archery hunting before I arrived, what happens when the elk go silent and opening day rifle season mule deer success as a consolation.

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Episode 240 - The progression of a hunter

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Jaden Bales about the progression of a hunter. We discuss fine-tuning gear decisions, hunting in shorts (not in Alaska), turning information learned inside into success outside, luck and going with your gut. We also talk about the dynamics of trying to break into the content world as podcast hosts and writers.

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Episode 239 - The moose wasn’t dead...

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Alaska Wild Project's Brandon Fifield recaps his moose hunt. We also talk about having intense experiences vs. tempting dangerous situations, meat care in bear territory, peppered game bags, urine-laced caribou livers, finding spots, respecting someone else's spot and looking out for each other.

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Episode 238 - How to tell a story

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

As host of a successful podcast, Chad Ryker from Backcountry Rookies has talked to many hunters about many different types of hunts so we break down what is most important when telling a story, the type of guests we like having on, the ability of some big names to stay honest and humble after they get big and, of course, our hunting plans for the rest of the fall.

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Episode 237 - Sitka Blacktail #3 - Success and ethics

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this replay from 2019, I talk about approaching muskegs quietly, using creeks as cover and expecting deer bedded in the transition. On this hunt, I was moving slow enough that I saw a deer bedded in brush well before the edge of a muskeg. He bumped, but I didn't rush after him. I gave a few quiet calls after a few minutes, then slowly moved toward the muskeg. He had only bumped to the edge of the muskeg. It was a quick and easy shot. Then as I waited for my buddies, a boat came in and dropped off a hunter in the same cove where we were anchored. Madness.

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Episode 236 - Sitka Blacktail #2 - How to call Sitka blacktail deer

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In part 2 of how to hunt Sitka blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska, I replay one of my earliest episodes. The guys behind Drop Shot Calls invited me over to talk hunting, calling and all things Prince of Wales living. The recording is done at their bench as they are working on their calls so there is authentic background noise and examples of how they call to bring in the big bucks they are known for.

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Episode 235 - Sitka Blacktail #1 - Hunting muskegs

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In part 1 of how to hunt Sitka blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska, I go back to episode 117 for a discussion with my buddy Ryan John. We talk scouting muskegs, what Google Earth can't show you, the importance of hunting the entire way to the muskeg not just the muskeg itself, how long to stay, being quiet, and when to eat snacks.

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Episode 234 - Fly-in caribou and pack out soundtracks

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling is back to recap the Alaska caribou hunt we previewed in episode 224. We talk about coping with the snow, changing plans, stalking caribou success, holding out for big animals in tough-to-draw units and the soundtrack of a long pack out.

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Episode 233 - Kodiak Mountain Goat

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Juneau resident Dallin Hanchett about his Kodiak mountain goat hunt next month. We discuss expectations, gear, goat populations, conditioning, dream hunts and guilty pleasure Lower 48 food.

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Episode 232 - How to film a hunt

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

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Episode 231 - Hunting and tent technology with Seek Outside’s Kevin Timm

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Hike up a mountain with a tent and stove? Yeah. Kevin Timm is the owner of Seek Outside, the manufacturer of the hot tent in which I spent the majority of what would have been a rainy, foggy, miserable alpine hunt in September had it not been for my buddy who owned one of these tents. I do not own one, but I wanted to track down Kevin and talk about the technology behind the tents, what makes them dependable and perform well in all Alaskan conditions.

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Episode 230 - Dall Sheep, moose camp and blue-collar outdoor content

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Brandon Fifield is back to talk about his Dall sheep success. We discuss the importance of a positive mental attitude, the reality of hunts everyone wants to do, the state of sheep populations, the gear and strategies for moose hunting and the sadness of lumping physical challenges in with toxic masculinity, because engaging in challenges create self esteem more than comfort.

Brandon is a co-founder of the Alaska Wild Project.

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Episode 229 - Plans, failure and eating marmot

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Jaden Bales is back to talk about his archery antelope hunt, but we mostly end up talking about things we don't understand like how a bear can just appear and elk can disappear. We also talk about lessons learned in sports that translate to hunting, what happens when a hunt is filmed, the value of a good wall map and the importance of supporting wildlife organizations in different states - especially if you plan to hunt them.

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Episode 228 - Life in the Arctic with Paul Atkins

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Paul Atkins moved to Kotzebue nearly three decades ago. In this episode we talk about life in the Arctic including the strength of rural communities, real Alaskan winters, the local vs. non-local debates regarding hunting, the writing process and what he will miss most now that he is back in Oklahoma. His book Atkins' Alaska is available on Amazon.

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Episode 227 - Optics and adventure with Mark Boardman

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Mark Boardman from Vortex Optics joins me to talk about applying a college education in a career, the fundamentals of a positive growth culture at a gear company, the importance of customer relations, quality products, his next hunt and when to pour gas on a good idea.

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Episode 226 - Caribou, regulations and Crocs with Craig Van Arsdale

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Craig Van Arsdale and I talk about his archery caribou hunt on the Haul Road, his first summer as an Alaskan, hunting outside of the United States, conservation, regulations and the future of hunting in the Lower 48.

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Episode 225 - Adapting, fitness and standing out with Tom Rowland

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with the co-host of the show Saltwater Experience and founder of WaypointTV Tom Rowland. We discuss good ideas, bad ones, how to stand out in a saturated industry, the role of fitness in a productive life, goals and the future of fishing as a resource and sport.

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Episode 224 - Float, foot-in and fly-in hunts

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling and I talk about his upcoming caribou hunt in a coveted area. We talk about the best ways to get information, what to look for when e-scouting, mileage expectations, logistical concerns when flying in and floating, meals that get your mind right and why he has 42 chickens.

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Episode 223 - Prince of Wales Island

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Abby and I recap our week on Prince of Wales Island. We recap our blacktail deer hunt, the deer population on POW, discuss the pros and cons of different rafts and fishing for salmon.

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Episode 222 - Blacktail #2 recap

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode my wife Abby and I talk about fog, rain and eventually blacktail success. We covered 26 miles over three days and I took my biggest buck to date.

Episode 220 - Cycle Alaska

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Episode 219 - Mike Merrill

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with outdoor enthusiast and entrepreneur Mike Merrill outdoor technology, living the hashtags, resilience building confidence, advice for outdoor content/product makers and his first fishing trip to Alaska.

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Episode 218 - Buck down...bear!

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Rain. Cold. Buck down. Bear.

In this excited, maybe frantic I-just-got-home-episode, I recap my first buck of the year. It was cold and rainy, then there was a buck, then there was waiting, then finally a chance to shoot the buck. Then there was a bear. Thankfully the bear was not a brown or grizzly (none on the island I hunted) and hadn't claimed my buck before I did. Still, I quartered, and boned out the rest of the required meat with AC/DC playing on my phone in the rain. I also sent a few inReach messages just incase. I have a bear tag but the season doesn't open until Sept. 1. With the amount of blueberries in the area, it probably tasted delicious so I'll have to go back.

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Episode 217 - Elk, education and travel with Corey Jacobsen

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Corey Jacobsen about the value of research, educating hunters, confidence and the importance of being authentic in a world loaded with egos.

Corey is the man behind Elk101, The University of Elk Hunting online course and Destination Elk on Youtube

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Episode 216 - Blacktail Preview

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this solo episode I break down the different season start dates for blacktail deer in Unit 2 (Prince of Wales) because it always seems like some non-resident is surprised upon hearing the season opens Aug. 1, but that they can't hunt federal land until Aug. 16. I recap the last three season openers, the impact of heat and dry spells on deer activity, finding a honey hole and changes to TheMediocreAlaskan.com including a section devoted to issues concerning hunters and anglers in Alaska.

Episode 215 - Wyoming Whitetail and Elk

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

My wife has a Wyoming whitetail deer tag, so in this episode we talk with our good friend and Wyoming resident Jaden Bales about scouting, tactics as well as more about our September elk program.

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Episode 214 - Being ”Alaska Rich”

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode I talk about having gear, borrowing gear, hunting programs, the Alaska housing market, upgrading Alaska Toys and what it means to be "Alaska Rich" with Alaska Wild Project's Brandon Fifield.

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Episode 213 - Fires, fish, and the Wild West

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

In this episode Turner Rowland and I talk about fires in the West, fishing, hunting, the importance of having or being a mentor for someone else, whether or not it's the Golden Age of outdoor content, or the Wild West and what that means for hunters and anglers going forward.

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Episode 212 - Building community and ”necessary toys”

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Daniel is the owner of Anchor Town Dogs and co-founder of the Alaska Wild Project.

Episode 211 - How to start an outdoors podcast

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Dale Luginbill is approaching 200 episodes of his FullScale Outdoors Podcast. In this episode we discuss the time needed to produce video, written, or audio content, overcoming the self-doubt, how to get started, how to continue and some of the pitfalls we have encountered along the way.

Though this podcast does talk about podcasts and the outdoor industry, the themes are universal. People have dreams or ideas and of those people, few follow through. Of those few, even fewer see it totally through. That doesn't mean if you do follow through you will become the next Steve Rinella, Tom Rowland or Patrick McManus, but you'll never know unless sit down and start writing or hit record.

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Episode 210 - Fly fishing, cider and sustainability

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 14:42:00 -0800

Jack is a co-founder of Alaska Wild Project, co-owner of Double Shovel Cider Company.

Episode 209 - Creating meaningful content

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 06:45:00 -0800

In this solo episode I talk about some of the difficult aspects of podcasting such as lining up guests and some of the most important things to keep in mind, like doing research and finding unique angles so you're not having a person tell the same story they did last week on a podcast (unless it truly is incredible). Anytime you are creating anything, it comes down to audience and purpose. What are you creating, who are you creating for, and why?

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Episode 208 - Kenai Peninsula Recap

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0800

My wife and I are back from our honeymoon on the Kenai Peninsula. In this episode we talk about expectations vs. reality, the best way to catch fish, some great places to eat, a really poor place to stay, why travel reviews are often flawed, and our great day in Anchorage to close out the trip.

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Episode 207 - Lyle Hebel

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0800

Lyle Hebel is the marketing director at Stone Glacier. In this episode we talk about the creative process, where to get inspiration, the role of gear, how to grow a company without losing identity and the good and bad of feedback.

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Episode 206 - Honeymoon on the Kenai Peninsula

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0800

The Kenai Peninsula is Alaska's Playground, so it was an obvious choice for our Honeymoon. In this episode Abby and I talk about pre-wedding stress, expectations for fishing the Kasilof and Kenai Rivers, Airbnb rentals, fly selections and how much planning should go into a road trip.

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Episode 205 - Black bear hunting and Dall sheep scouting

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling is back to talk about his recent interior Alaska black bear hunt. We talk about that hunt, his 10-year old dog, finding sheep, and what's going to happen when he goes on a fly-out hunt this fall with our buddy Steve - both armed with sheep, caribou and moose tags.

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Episode 204 - Entrepreneurship and docking boats

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0800

Along the Keel host Zach Rollins and I talk about creating value as an entrepreneur or content maker, authenticity, travel and docking boats.

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Episode 203.5 - Big news and Memorial Day

Mon, 31 May 2021 07:28:00 -0800

In this episode I overuse the words "excited" and "opportunity" to describe being asked to join the Waypoint Collective. Joining a collective is the latest in a lifetime of things I thought I'd never do: I'd never be a teacher, I'd never move back to Alaska, I'd never have a podcast that was bigger than a small, ad-less ramble.

I close with a memory of being in 29 Palms for my brother's return from a deployment in Iraq. There were a few signs in memory of the men who were killed. Every Memorial Day the image of those posters comes back up in my memory.

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Episode 203 - Pace Of Life

Tue, 25 May 2021 17:06:00 -0800

At some point in late May, the gas is hit and things start flying. Steelhead overlaps with bear season which overlaps with king salmon season once June starts. It is an absolutely overwhelming time of year.

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Episode 202 - Brown Bear Down

Tue, 18 May 2021 05:22:00 -0800

"If you know, you know" is a pretty lame, overused expression, but it does encapsulate the feelings during a hunt. Writers and podcasters always try to put words to experiences, and we always fail. But we can connect people to their own memories and maybe in that light, the storytelling is successful. In this solo episode, I fumble to find words to recount the 26-hour brown bear hunt I was invited on over the weekend which culminated with me taking my first brown bear.

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Episode 201 - Holding on to The Moment

Fri, 14 May 2021 05:42:00 -0800

Dallin Hanchett recounts his brown bear hunt and we discuss big game photography, personal trophies and the impossibility of holding onto the moment.

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Episode 200 - ”Whatever Your Screaming Bull Is”

Tue, 11 May 2021 05:13:00 -0800

Guy Duplantier is the creator of Western Contours and an avid hunter currently obsessed with elk. In this dual released episode, he and I talk about finding value, archery caribou, bull elk screaming at night, the future of hunting and the importance of finding, "whatever your screaming bull is."

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Episode 199 - Bears, Bipods And NFTs

Sat, 08 May 2021 08:58:00 -0800

In this episode Jaden Bales and I talk about recovering black bears, ammunition shortages, bipods and a Cameron Hanes running shoe NFT?

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Episode 198 - Sheep, Brown Bears and Winter

Wed, 05 May 2021 16:39:00 -0800

In this episode Lyn Hoffman (thehoffmanlife.com) joins me to talk about guiding spring brown bear hunts, sheep hunts, massive expanses of land like the Brooks Range, hunting ethics in crowded areas like New Mexico and how to make it through the winter in Alaska.

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Episode 197 - Cabin In The Woods?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:47:00 -0800

A bill proposed by Gov. Dunleavy has me conflicted. While I love the thought of me getting 10 acres of land for a "recreational cabin" preferably to hunt moose or something in the interior, will I be able to afford good land? Will I be able to afford to get to it? What are the unintended consequences of putting public hands into private hands? And yes, there is a nice swamp by Skwentna.

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Episode 196 - Interior Alaska Bear

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:49:00 -0800

Outdoor Life writer and Tundra Talk host Tyler Freel and I talk about grizzly bear hunting, processing black bear, archery, protecting public land and how some hunts never get old.

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Episode 195 - Spring Preview

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 18:16:00 -0800

Spring showed up all of a sudden, so there is more than enough to do. The black bears will start to emerge, grouse season will be peaking and of course, spring steelhead will be hot. For those who don't live here, it's these shoulder months that make this place absolutely irresistible. No one is going to come up here for hooter season, unless you're filming a show, but if you're local, it's just one of the many things that make the cold, dark winters worth it. Also, buy my book and keep this podcast free.

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Episode 194 - Alaska Bison

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 17:58:00 -0800

In this episode I talk to fellow product of Prince of Wales, Melissa Castle, who took a bison last month in interior Alaska. We talk about her upbringing in Craig, the best parts of living in Anchorage and the details of her hunt.

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Episode 193 - Fairbanks ice fishing recap

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 16:45:00 -0800

Harrison and I finally got around to the ice fishing recap from my trip up there two weeks ago. We talk navigating rivers, choosing spots and the messy break up. We also talk about the keys to raising kids in such a cold, harsh environment.

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Episode 192 - You Know You’re From Alaska When...

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 16:08:00 -0800

Ordered some new podcasting stuff and of course, it "may be lost" according to Amazon. So in this episode I talk about the mail, old school mail, and other Alaskan podcasts.

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Episode 191 - Pre - Order Is Live

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 05:16:00 -0800

Telling the Alaska story is a multi-million dollar industry, but often it's "produced" by people who don't live here year long. I love Alaska shows, books, and hunting trips filmed by people who live in the Lower 48, but there is a lot that's missed. That's why I started this podcast in 2017 and why I wrote my book. Pre-order the Kindle version of my book A Miserable Paradise on Amazon. Paperbacks will be released April 8, the same day the Kindle version will upload to your devise. This is the hardest I've worked on anything and my best work.

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Episode 190 - Sausage And Savoring The Moment

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0800

The caribou sausage is in the oven, so while I wait, I talk about improving products, savoring the moment, and why its impossible to rank hunts or fishing experiences.

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Episode 189 - Caribou recap

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 21:38:00 -0800

Harrison Gottschling and I recap the caribou hunt from his place in Fairbanks. We talk about the Fortymile Herd, caribou hunting and living in Fairbanks.

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Episode 188 - Book Release Details

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 05:43:00 -0900

I am aiming for a mid-April release for my book A Miserable Paradise. In this episode I talk about how important it is to consider audience and purpose (as well as making sense) when creating content. I also talk about what I found in author forums regarding negative comments, getting people to give honest feedback, when questions just beget more questions and being comfortable with that.

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Episode 187 - A Miserable Paradise

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 16:19:00 -0900

Putting the finishing touches on my book A Miserable Paradise which will be released next month. In this solo episode I talk about the editing process, an outline of the book itself and pondering the stupidest way someone could read something. Also check out the winter issue of The Drake and look for the piece I wrote about steelhead fishing. I also wrote a feature-length basketball piece for the Juneau Empire which was fun since my first journalism pieces were about sports.

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Episode 186 - Public access and Predators Over Prey?

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 18:45:00 -0900

Caleb Martin from the Alaska Outdoor Council is back to talk about the importance of the use of science in maintaining sustainable yield populations in Alaska and protecting public use. He talks about the devastating effects of choosing predators over prey in areas that used to be rich in Dall sheep and moose. We also talk about the importance of education as many people have their hearts in the right place, but just don't have access to the reality of Alaskan ecosystems.

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Episode 185 - Draw Results, attitude and good content

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 16:43:00 -0900

The Alaska draws are out and again I drew nothing, but it really doesn't matter. Draw time is the time to get upset at non-residents for drawing the tag locals like and that is an absolute waste of time. In this episode I talk about how insane it is to go out of our way to be upset at people who make the hunts we want to happen, happen themselves. I also talk about how terrified I am of losing the wonder and excitement of a hunting experience.

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Episode 184 - Editing And HS Basketball Memories

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 16:39:00 -0900

Been neck deep in editing my book (hoping for an April release) and starting another writing project about basketball in southeast Alaska. So I've tricked myself into believing that I don't have time to do a podcast which is an absolute lie. I talk about this in a short solo episode.

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Episode 183 - Overnight Success And Shoveling Snow

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 05:53:00 -0900

After the positive rejection I received regarding my book manuscript, I have decided to self-publish my book A Miserable Paradise and see what happens. I felt like there was a stigma that was something like self-publishing was for authors who weren't good enough to get a book deal. But after talking to some authors and seeing how difficult it is to get a deal and how little you make in royalties, I've decided to go for it. In the latest round of edits I have felt both like I have a solid grasp on expression and that I am a total hack that couldn't write a coloring book.

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Episode 182 - Elk, Travel And Mental Approaches

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:23:00 -0900

Tongass Talk host Adam Krick (Colorado resident, formerly of Metlakatla) is back to talk about travel hunting, guiding elk in New Mexico, how that compares to hunting elk on Afognak, why Etolin elk hunting might be the most difficult hunt in Alaska, the problem with too much hunting content, how to be successful even when hunting well-known places, plus universal tactics for hunting and starting something new.

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Episode 181 - Rejection And Bad Attitudes

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 14:07:00 -0900

So my manuscript was rejected by a publisher, but it's just part of the process. In this episode I talk about the positive rejection email I received and two groups of people I don't understand: 1. people who selfishly choose the worst possible way to read or hear a comment 2. people who thing that by saying you had a good 2020, you are oblivious and hateful. How are we supposed to help people get back to feeling joy, if we only permit anger and misery?

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Episode 180 - Hunts, Habitat and Stocks

Sat, 23 Jan 2021 08:09:00 -0900

It's tag hunting season for non-residents, so Jaden Bales (the Wyoming Correspondent) and I talk about off-season podcast listening habits, ice fishing, cow elk hunts, cow caribou hunts, the decrease of non-resident tag allotment in some states, why increasing population and improving habitat is important and what happens if you can afford the tag but not the hunt.

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Episode 179 - Influence, Throwing Up And Leaderboards

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 14:28:00 -0900

Danny Lehr is the co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos, Excel Health and Fitness in Manteca, California, and the good friend who recommended I start a website and podcast. In this episode we talk about how pacing in stupid, growing a business, positive influences, throwing up, flipping dollar bills, and being on a king salmon derby leaderboard.

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Episode 178 - Winter Caribou?

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 16:10:00 -0900

Caribou has always been on the list, but winter caribou seems like the type of Alaskan hunt I need to experience. In this solo episode I blame my Fairbanks buddies for my lack of self-control when it comes to seeking out Alaskan experiences.

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Episode 177 - Ice Fishing For Pike

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 17:47:00 -0900

Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling is back to talk all things ice fishing including tips, gear and recipes for pike. We also talk fox hats, Arctic gear, the On Deck Freezer, owning chickens and making it through the cold dark winter.

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Episode 176 - The Dark Cloud

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 16:47:00 -0900

For some, the outdoors are an escape from an existence void of the type of purpose and excitement that make them feel happy to be alive. They are dependent on a hunt or hike or fishing trip that will make the dark cloud go away, but unless reality is fulfilling, the dark cloud will return. In this episode I talk about how hunting and fishing can't solve our problems and how the better we are at work and home, the more epic our experiences outdoors will be.

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Episode 175 - Emperor Geese And Duck Tips

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 17:14:00 -0900

Juneau resident Dallin Hanchett is back to talk about his trip to Cold Bay earlier this month for emperor geese. In this episode we talk conservation, a brief history of the emperor goose hunt and tips for diver ducks and puddle ducks.

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Episode 174 - Tags, Points And Draws

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 14:55:00 -0900

With the deadline for draw applications in Alaska looming, I was feeling the crowd putting in for the tags that I want and wondered if tag-finding services were turning travel hunting into a rich person's game. I texted my buddy Jaden who provided some interesting insight. I talk about Jaden behind his back in this episode about perception vs. reality, tag-finding services and the value of having an outdoor buddy who can provide depth to a subject so you're not berating something you don't really understand.

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Episode 173 - Alaska Fly Fishing Goods

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 20:03:00 -0900

Brad Elfers is the owner of Alaska Fly Fishing Goods in Juneau. In this episode he and I talk about whether or not guiding and shop owning are all they are cracked up to be, how the internet has changed the business and steelhead tactics in southeast Alaska.

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Episode 172 - Cultural Richness And Hunting Rut

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 17:37:00 -0900

Tongass Talk's Ian Hudson and I talk about cultural richness, the different Alaskas, hunting the rut, why enduring terrible winter storms is worth it to live in Alaska and what's on the radar for 2021.

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Episode 171 - The Freelance Life

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 11:28:00 -0900

Taylor Balkom is a talented, award-winning freelance photojournalist who used to work for the Ketchikan Daily News. In this episode we talk about getting started in the freelance world, the importance of being able to write as well as shoot, imposter's syndrome, honing the craft and how giving away good content for free undermines the value of good words and photos.

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Episode 170 - Bowhunting Recap

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 15:08:00 -0900

After missing with my bow on Nov. 1, I haven't had another shot at a buck, though I have seen at least one every weekend. This is madness. There are only a few days left in the season so I will admit I'm feeling a bit of urgency. In this episode I talk about my two hunts this weekend, why I bow hunt, why I watch Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee and make a reference to 1984 because my students are finishing it for class so its on the brain.

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Episode 169 - Travel Hunting And Local Issues

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:15:00 -0900

I grew up watching Lower 48ers take Alaskan salmon back to their homes and in October I took a Wyoming mule deer back to mine. Traveling to someone else's spot to live out a dream can be a complex issue and one that often leads to debate. For every local angry about meat leaving the state, there's a slice of the local economy dependent upon it. We're all Public Land Owners, but what sort of ethics should a hunter or angler travel with? Jess Johnson, Jaden Bales (both of the Wyoming Wildlife Federation) and I talk about this and how to pack for a road trip in this episode.

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Episode 168 - Recipes And Recaps

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 16:50:00 -0900

Fairbanks resident Steve Shannon is back to talk about the highs and the low from the year. Though plans changed, we both scratched out pretty good years hunting. We also discuss e-bikes, tipi tents, and recipes.

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Episode 167 - Rut Part 1

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 16:53:00 -0900

The first weekend of Peak Rut is behind us and I went 0/2 on shots (both clean misses) with my bow, but I was seeing deer and giving myself a chance. In this episode I talk about what has worked for me as far as hunting muskegs in high traffic area. I explain the importance of running a program you trust because that is the key. People have different ideas about how to hunt during the rut and it all can work. My program is to focus on transition areas rather than bust through brush to make it to a muskeg and use a deer call as a magic wand.

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Episode 166 - Mule Deer Recap

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 07:28:00 -0800

On Day 1, I was hoping for a 3 or maybe a 4-point buck because we had scouted an area and seen big bucks. By Day 4 I was ready to shoot a spike we called Chopstick. So much happened during the 6-day hunt in Wyoming it was difficult to get the days straight, but in this episode I attempt to. Jaden Bales joins me to talk about the difference between reading or watching videos about hunting, and actually hunting. It's the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge is knowing tactics. Wisdom is knowing what tactic to use during the actual hunt. Days 1-3 were uneventful which brought on desperation and frustration, but there was no question every morning we were excited to get back out there and run a good program. Then, after blowing a stalk (Day 4) and missing a forkie (Day 5), maybe Abby and I got things right, or maybe we just happened to get lucky.

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Episode 165 - Telling Stories

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:08:00 -0800

Telling a story is easy. Telling a good story isn't. You're trying to convey an experience to someone who wasn't there and a lot of times they end up being dry and detail lacking, too big on trying to make it epic or over-the top ego strokes. In this solo episode I talk about what I like about podcasts, articles and other story-telling content. That's not to say I am right, but I am an expert in what I like.

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Episode 164 - Halfway Point

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 16:49:00 -0800

All of a sudden it's October and almost time for Wyoming mule deer. In this solo episode I talk about how fast things move, solo hunts, hoping I don't chalk my mule deer hunt as a "learning experience", prepping for the blacktail rut here in Alaska, duck hunting and why it's important to have some fun when the world is on fire.

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Episode 163 - Backcountry Rookies

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 05:17:00 -0800

Stumbled upon the Backcountry Rookies podcast and tracked down host Chad Ryker for an episode. We talk about morning routines, figuring out the important details that make hunts successful, starting podcasts, the importance of the honest angle when making content and bringing value to people rather than just looking for revenue.

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Episode 162 - Hunting Plans Vs. Hunting Reality

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 18:12:00 -0800

The Wyoming correspondent Jaden Bales and I talk about our latest hunts, expectation vs. reality, saying the right thing and finding that sweet spot between overconfident and unsure.

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Episode 161 - SE Alaska Duck Hunting 101

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 17:34:00 -0800

Juneau resident Dallin Hanchett is back to talk about duck hunting. In this episode we talk best loads for different ducks, indispensable gear, cooking sea ducks, watching the tides and what to look for when hunting waterfowl in southeast Alaska.

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Episode 160 - Alpine Season Still?

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 17:01:00 -0800

Heading up another mountain this weekend to look for a mountain goat or maybe even a deer. In this episode I talk about the importance of your social media bubble, how late deer are in the alpine and why it's important that someone has a little fun in 2020 so there's some positivity left.

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Episode 159 - Brad Brooks

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 15:36:00 -0800

Brad Brooks is the founder of Argali, maker of top-tier hunting content and gear. In this episode he and I talk about his recent trip to Kodiak, how to be a good hunting guest, entrepreneurship, making good content and keeping your ego in check.

Episode 158 - Nick Jans

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:22:00 -0800

Nick Jans is author of the best-selling books The Grizzly Maze and A Wolf Called Romeo. He is one of the best-known Alaskan writers and we talk about the process it took to get to that point. We talk about developing voice, confidence, editing and the importance of clarity and cadence in writing.

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Episode 157 - Salmon Trolling And Alpine Prep

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 15:58:00 -0800

There's a silver salmon derby this weekend, but I'll be up on a mountain looking for a goat or buck. In this episode I talk personal preference when it comes to trolling up salmon, seeing alpine terrain for the first time, and all the chores around the house - dehydrating salmon, cooking venison leftovers, bleaching antlers and packing for a trip into the mountains. It's hard to be an Alaskan.

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Episode 156 - Early Season Recap

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 19:15:00 -0800

Jaden Bales (the Wyoming correspondent) and I talk the benefits of technology and how technology has also ruined hunts. Without it I wouldn't have made it through the fog and up the mountain to the alpine where I shot my second buck of the year and proposed to my girlfriend Abby. But technology has also made us more dependent, prone to distraction and even changed how rescuers respond to missing hunters and hikers.

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Episode 155 - Hiking, Habits And Cheetos

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 08:07:00 -0800

Well it's August, which means all previous routines have been disrupted by the delightful cycle of fishing and hunting trips. But that can make it difficult to keep up with previous positive habits when new habits are formed. Habits like bringing Cheetos as a snack.

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Episode 154 - Fish And Chicks Food Truck

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 14:23:00 -0800

In this episode I talk with Liz Thomsen the co-owner (along with Jill May) of Fish and Chicks food truck in Craig. We talk about turning the idea into a reality, business challenges, salmon recipes and the supportive culture of Prince of Wales Island. The truck is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Episode 153 - Opening Day Errors

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 10:10:00 -0800

"Keep Hammering" is the battle cry for those embracing a tough hunt. However, sometimes I hear, "Get a burger" because I'm mentally weak or the miles and failing stalks are adding up. In this episode I discuss three mistakes from my opening day hunting trip. I didn't miss out on a huge buck or do anything egregious and the weather conditions were not idea, but I could have prepared better.

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Episode 152 - Welcome To Alaska

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 08:43:00 -0800

Dallin Hanchett moved up from Utah 10 months ago to be the hunting manager at Sportsman's Warehouse in Juneau. We talk about adjusting to Alaska, how to choose a bow, buying gear, brand loyalty and of course, the need to buy a boat in order to make the most of living in Southeast Alaska.

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Episode 151 - The Content Grind And Hunting In Rain

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 16:32:00 -0800

In this episode I talk about why stagnancy sucks, the process of getting better and how bad the weather looks for the deer opener.

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Episode 150 - Mountain Goat Preview

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 17:36:00 -0800

My buddy Ryan John and I both have plans to chase mountain goats on over the counter tags in August. In this episode we talk our strategies, what he’s learned, how goat hunting is different than alpine deer, why he no longer weighs his pack during training hikes, and the considerations that come with hunting goats with a bow.

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Episode 149 - Being Outside Social, Masks And Pressure Cooking Salmon

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 06:16:00 -0800

We're back! I didn't make time to podcast the last two weeks because I was outside hiking, camping and looking for fish. In this episode I talk about social activities outside, masks as a guard against Covid and the government, and pressure cooking salmon.

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Episode 148 - Fly Fishing Expectations

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 08:38:00 -0800

Is it better to fish new water with only a vague idea of what might work and what's possible, or after having seen a YouTube video of the best the water has to offer? I ponder this with my buddy Kurt Johnson is a firefighter in Lodi, California. We talk about evaluating content online, his latest trip to the Truckee River in California and my trip to the North Tongue in Wyoming. We close up with thoughts on the importance of a hobby that helps you unwind and take a break from the mental strains of living in out weird times. As a firefighter, his stress levels can be off the charts, but when he comes home, he has his wife, his dog and his hobby of fly fishing to keep him not only sane, but happy.

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Episode 147 - Seeing what you scouted

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:56:00 -0800

Mule deer results are out for Wyoming and this guy was lucky enough to draw one. In this quick episode I talk about my lack of luck drawing cool tags, finding new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, the importance of the reset in times like these, and the dangers of recreational anger.

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Episode 146 - E - Scouting For Mule Deer And Elk

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 04:32:00 -0800

I e-scouted three spots for a potential mule deer hunt in Wyoming and had Wyoming Wildlife Federation's marketing director Jaden Bales evaluate my spots. Without giving the specific areas away, I breakdown why I chose them, and Jaden evaluates my work. We discuss vegetation, land texture, how long to let a pocket rest if other boots have been in there, elk vs. mule deer territory and chronic wasting disease.

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Episode 145 - Boat Ownership And Travel

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 15:39:00 -0800

I extended my range by buying a 2008 North River in November. Since then I've been learning as I go and sharing what limited knowledge I have about shopping, boats and the fears of catastrophe with friends who are in the market.

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Episode 144 - Life outside the hunting bubble

Fri, 29 May 2020 14:01:00 -0800

When I enter my e-scouting bubble, nothing much exists outside of mule deer, terrain, and hunting with my girlfriend in the fall. When I exit my bubble and am reminded of the volume of suffering, anger and divisiveness in the world, it's difficult to know what to say. Would it just be some gross, self-congratulatory, "look at how virtuous I am" post which would detract from the point? Or is it better to just like or retweet a post from someone who really knows what they are talking about? It's not that you ignore or don't care. Good people have existed long before social media liked them, and finding positive things that will make my interactions with people in my community more unifying is probably more important than the perfect post when things are bad. This is maybe my most incoherent ramble, but I think it reflects the inability of many to know what to say in light of Covid-19 and the death of George Floyd.

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Episode 143 - Point Systems And Elk

Wed, 20 May 2020 09:26:00 -0800

Tomorrow (May 21) is a big day. Not the big day, but a big day. Results for the Wyoming elk draw will be released and I will find out if the call practicing I've been doing will be put to use for a September archery hunt for cow elk. In this solo episode I talk about preference points, why I may never draw a bull elk tag and why my podcast introductions are weak.

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Episode 142- Spring Bear 3 - Instagram

Wed, 13 May 2020 07:02:00 -0800

Jaden Bales works for the Wyoming Wildlife Federation and hosts Muley Monday for the Rich Outdoors Podcast. He and I talk mentorship, identity, what your Instagram post can and can't say about you. We also talk about hunting bears.

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Episode 141 - Spring Bear Part 2 - Archery

Wed, 06 May 2020 08:09:00 -0800

Hunting spring black bears with a bow is a program my buddy Jesse Knock has figured out pretty well. In this episode he and I talk where to find big boars, staying calm, judging size and the best archery moments which don't always end in a notched tag.

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Episode 140 - Spring Black Bear Part 1

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 20:39:00 -0800

Adam Krick and I last talked about Afognak Elk, this time we discuss learning the spring black bear game. We talk the key elements of learning how to find, stalk and track black bear, and how quality bacon is the key ingredient for bear breakfast sausage.

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Episode 139 - Overused Terms And Hunting Grouse

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 13:15:00 -0800

"Weird" "strange" and "crazy" are some of the most used words these days. This is because there really isn't anything else to describe what's going on and using a thesaurus to find a synonym doesn't really make anything better. I escaped my pandemic-induced lethargic week of distance teaching with a weekend in the woods chasing grouse, setting up game cameras and setting shrimp pots. It was another reminder of how important it is to have something to recharge the batteries. Some might call it "self care" others might call it "getting away" or "just being Alaskan." No matter what the preferred phrase, the point is the act of unplugging. I also talk about my favorite way to eat grouse - in popper form.

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Episode 138 - From Ketchikan To Netflix

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 16:25:00 -0800

Before his role in Netflix's teen drama Outer Banks, Ketchikan High School graduate ('16) Rudy Pankow was washing dishes from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Cheesecake Factory to make ends meet while pursuing his dream in Hollywood. I talk to my former student about the struggles, seeing through the fake, staying focused, and how the thought of not letting his home town down motivated him through the dry periods.

Episode 137 - Spring Caribou, Teaching And Summer Goats

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 07:29:00 -0800

Fairbanks resident Steven Shannon and I talk about his spring caribou, the future of the 2020 Alaska hunting season and teaching in this weird time.

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Episode 136 - Ketchikan And Covid - 19

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 14:36:00 -0800

Ketchikan resident Larry Jackson and I discuss charter fishing, the economic impact of Covid-19 on education, political divisiveness, being informed, where we go from here, and what the summer will look like.

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Episode 135 - Recalling History, Quarantine And The Economic Engine

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 17:00:00 -0800

Yesterday I finished my 14-day travel quarantine so now I am allowed to move about the city to buy my own necessities. In this episode I talk about my new freedom, the reconstructing my personal history to remember a particular brown trout and how tragic events proved to be motivators which made me live with more purpose.

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Episode 134 - Fly Fishing

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 17:29:00 -0800

Alex Ramirez and Dave Schonzeit are the hosts of the Beer, Fly Fishing and Food podcast out of California. I fished the Yuba River with Alex last week so the three of us talk dry fly fishing, why striper fishing is maybe their current favorite, fly fishing icons, history, technology and of course, a little food and beer.

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Episode 133 - Quarantine Tips, Zooming And Wearing Shoes

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 13:44:00 -0800

A lot changed while I was in California trout fishing this past week, but I am home now, a half day into my 14-day quarantine. My buddy Dean returned from a school trip in Portugal a week ago, so I get tips from him about coping with the isolation. We talk about being ethical, hindsight, appreciating friends willing to grocery shop, what we miss about March and the importance of wearing shoes.

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Episode 132 - Spring Steelhead And Trout

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 16:22:00 -0800

Fly fishing for steelhead is one of my all-time favorite things. In this episode I talk about the latest trip to the river, what I use, why I use it, and why what I use shouldn't necessarily dictate what you do. Casting style and individual taste should drive what you end up buying but I do offer some advice regarding southeast Alaska set ups for steelhead and why I bought a 6-weight for trout fishing. As far as flies go, what I can't tie myself I get from Alaska Fly Fishing Goods in Juneau.

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Episode 131 - Feels Like Spring...and That We’re Doomed?

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 10:06:00 -0900

According to yesterday's weather, spring is getting close and with it the chance to catch steelhead, camp, hike and hunt bear and grouse. According to the Internet, however, we are doomed. President Trump or socialism, or authoritarian governments, or climate change, or coronavirus, or guns, or not having guns will lead to our demise if we don't act now. So there is something to be said for living in a place with enough to distract you from the miserable world portrayed by miserable people online. It's not that those things don't matter, it's that with only so many hours and so much energy, it's not a sin to have a little fun.

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Episode 130 - Draw Results, attitudes

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 07:14:00 -0900

Caleb Martin runs xplorealaska.org and is a hunting fanatic. He and I talk about the draw results, why it's fair, what to do if you didn't draw, the best types of meat, the need to justify and how important it is to represent your lifestyle well since there are plenty of people with political power who see hunters as cruel.

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Episode 129 - Secret Spots And Stirring The Pot

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 05:54:00 -0900

In this quick, solo episode I talk about why it's stupid to try to show off in front of guides or experts, why someone taking you to see where they trap is an exercise in extreme trust and the idiocy of pot stirring posts.

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Episode 128 - Afognak Elk, Steelhead, Deer And High School Travel

Sat, 08 Feb 2020 21:05:00 -0900

Adam Krick has wasted no time becoming an Alaskan. Since moving to Metlakatla four years ago he has taken an elk on Afognak, a caribou in the interior and bear and deer in southeast. He and I talk about his elk trip to Afognak, making the most of the lifestyle here, steelhead fishing, deer populations and what it's like to be an athletic director in Alaska.

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Episode 127 - Elk Dreams And Buying Experiences

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 16:30:00 -0900

Cody Rich says buy experiences not gear. I've been taking his advice (for the most part) and saving money for new experiences. However, that doesn't mean buying a Wyoming bull elk tag when I don't know what I'm doing. In this episode I talk about why elk keep me up at night, focusing on disciplined spending so I can have more fun not more gear and why I'd one day like to go to one of those properties advertised at the sportsman's expos...as long as it's locally owned and operated.

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Episode 126 - Eating Tags And Quality Of Life

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 16:47:00 -0900

Jaden Bales from Backcountry Fuel Box is back on for the second time to talk about eating tags, living the brochure, quality of life, purpose, self-reliance, elk hunting, wolves and handling feedback.

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Episode 125 - Mink, Marten And Wolf Trapping

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 16:46:00 -0900

When I was in elementary school my brother, dad and I trapped mink and marten and wanted to get enough to make some mittens and a hat for my grandpa. Grandpa died before we had enough material but I still have the furs. So I decided to get back into trapping a bit to finish the job. In this episode I share my earliest trapping memories and recap when I tagged along with a couple buddies who were checking their wolf traps in 2013.

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Episode 124 - The Rich Outdoors

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 18:06:00 -0900

Cody Rich (Backcountry Fuel Box and The Rich Outdoors) and I talk entrepreneurship, how to not become self-absorbed, when DIY is not DIY and our dream hunts.

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Episode 123 - Focal Points, Social Media And Resolutions

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 15:07:00 -0900

I don't really have goals for 2020, just my eye on a couple focus words to keep me from being one of those types whose only purposes are killing, catching and posting. I do all three, but that can't be it, because there aren't enough steelhead, a big enough buck or enough likes to compensate for a lack of purpose. So I'm going to continue to focus on having fun at work, creating mediocre content after being an okay Alaskan.

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Episode 122 - Heather’s Choice

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 17:25:00 -0900

Episode 121 - Boat Ownership, Duck Hunting And 1984

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 16:39:00 -0900

Paranoia is part of new boat ownership, right? And it eventually goes away? Please say yes. In this episode I talk about the joys of owning a real boat and the 2 a.m. storm worries. I also talk about failed stalks during duck hunts, learning new things and release some of the darkness that comes from teaching 1984 in my Science Fiction Literature class. Not just from the surveillance perspective, but the aims of the High, Middle and Low classes.

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Episode 120 - Sagebrush Dry Goods

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 18:11:00 -0900

John Peterka runs Sagebrush Dry Goods in Kake, Alaska. Not exactly the hub of outdoor gear so in this episode John and I talk business dynamics and small town life in southeast Alaska. We talk about how he arrived in Kake, how he became accepted by the community, why his latest float plane flight got turned around and of course, what makes Sagebrush Dry Goods so special.

Episode 119 - Transition Season

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 05:56:00 -0900

This is the time of year that New Year's Resolutions fail because it's eating season. From late October to the end of December it's trashy Starbucks drinks, candy, pie, treats, and food in socially acceptable over-eating. After 70 days of terrible eating, no wonder people only last a week in January. Anyway, I talk about the end of deer season, the beginning of coping with those dark cold Alaska days on the river chasing steelhead or trapping.

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Episode 118 - Big Buck At 14 Yards

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 06:20:00 -0900

Two straight weeks I took a buck, so I was looking to get my 4th and final blacktail, this time with my bow. I talk about what I've learned, the importance of reflection to improve rather than running the same program, and what happened with that buck at 14 yards.

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Episode 117 - Hunting Muskegs

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 18:22:00 -0900

It's rut season up here in Southeast Alaska so Ryan John and I talk about hunting muskegs. We talk scouting muskegs, what Google Earth can't show you, the importance of hunting the entire way to the muskeg not just the muskeg itself, how long to stay, being quiet, and when to eat snacks.

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Episode 116 - The Roadless Rule

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 16:37:00 -0800

I talk with Juneau resident Kayla Roys about the Roadless Rule. Kayla was born and raised in Juneau and works for Trout Unlimited. We talk features of the Tongass, the impact of logging, and how saving the forest does impact the economy of the region as logging is a way of life for many families who can't simply go out and find another job.

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Episode 115 - Unwritten Rules

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 19:02:00 -0800

Inspired by the dude who dropped off another dude into the cove in which we were anchored, I podcast from a secluded beach after taking a buck. I punched the tag at 8:45, so by the time I was back to the beach, I had four hours to kill before my buddies returned from their muskegs and we headed back. Shout to Dave for picking the spot and supplying the boat and tender.

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Episode 114 - Highs And Lows

Sat, 26 Oct 2019 20:26:00 -0800

So halfway through another unsuccessful day hunting blacktail in the rut, I got a message and a picture from my girlfriend of her and her first ever big game animal, a 5x5 Wyoming elk. I also read part of an email I got from a listener and how perspective changes with success.

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Episode 113 - The Learning Curve

Sat, 19 Oct 2019 18:50:00 -0800

After a day chasing ducks and deer (both unsuccessful) I recap the learning curve, attitude, and why realizing that no one really cares is the best medicine for stress management when things don't go as planned.

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Episode 112 - Wyoming Hunting Buffet

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 06:30:00 -0800

First time hunting mule deer, antelope and lower 48 elk for my girlfriend Abby and me. Trekked 64.7 miles in the hills, mountains and on the prairie. Had some great stalks, a couple good chances but couldn’t get one down. Probably did a lot of stuff wrong but it was still some of the most fun I’ve ever had hunting. Thanks to Jaden Bales from Backcountry Fuel Box for providing some insight and direction during the hunt.

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Episode 111 - Outdoor Entrepreneurship And Backcountry Food

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 06:30:00 -0800

Jaden Bales from Backcountry Fuel Box and I talk about the risks in the entrepreneurship game, the loaded outdoor field, betting on yourself, favorite hunts and of course, food.

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Episode 110 - Climate Change

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 13:46:00 -0800

I'm afraid that we will be totally aware, and not get anything done. Soundbites suck. The global climate strike on Friday was 4-million people deep. Awesome. People care, and there are millions of people who didn't strike Friday who also care about earth. So now what? The "how" is the most important part of this and just because someone thinks the Green New Deal is outlandish doesn't mean he or she is a denier. A hunter does not participate in the meat industry, so should hunting be encouraged rather than seen as an obsolete skill? Are our energy needs beyond that which wind and solar can provide? If so, then well nuclear has to be part of the discussion. The problem is some of the issues we face require a depth of discussion we aren't always willing to endure. It would be nice if we could create a utopia, but humankind has never been able to solve the problem of the human flaw. People throw plastic in the ocean. People throw trash out of their windows. People start fires. People break laws. But we aren't hopeless. It's just not going to be as perfect as what we might design on paper.

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Episode 109 - Fair game or bear theft?

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 07:37:00 -0800

Ryan and I were glassing for black bears and two dudes appeared. I went over to them, introduced myself and asked what their plan was so we wouldn't be in the way of each other. They said they were heading to a different peak. We told them we were hunting the bowl in front of us. An hour later, we haven't seen them moving across the flat between peaks. We do see a bear 300 yards beneath us. Then the two hunters walk past us, about 20 yards to the left, down the ridge, cut in front, and shoot the bear. This episode is recorded in three parts: as we are glassing, after the corking, and after the wolf encounter. Turn up the volume for the first two sections and decide whether this is fair game, or black bear theft.

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Episode 108 - Who Is In Control?

Sat, 14 Sep 2019 12:08:00 -0800

Human history is filled with heart-felt good and unfathomable evil. Unfortunately, that will continue. As a whole, we will do evil to others and evil to ourselves. However, individually we can find ways to fight it. Plenty of people have found ways to live healthy, fulfilling lives. It is not impossible to be healthy and happy. People everywhere are holding themselves to those standards. Know these people, spend time with these people - people who do real things and refuse to give in to the negativity or are manipulated into thinking other people can do it for you.

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Episode 107 - Hunting and filming Dall sheep

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:06:00 -0800

After seeing Harrison Gottschling's Dall Sheep hunt on The Heart of Hunting, I had more questions, so I talked with Harrison and Steve Frith, who filmed the hunt. We talk about staying positive and motivated to keep hiking after rams blow out, are shot by other hunters or are on the opposite side of the valley. We also talk about the authentic reactions that can't be staged, how to keep that perspective fresh and universal hunting principles that apply for mule deer in the Lower 48 and blacktail in Alaska.

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Episode 106 - Which Boat Is Best?

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 08:04:00 -0800

I call it Episode 105, but it's really 106. Anyway, I'm selling my 15-foot Boston Whaler with a 70 hp Yamaha (200 hours) and looking at upgrading to a mid-level boat to extend my range. I am primarily looking for a boat from which to hunt, camp and set pots, with fishing coming a close second. With that in mind, I've been overwhelmed with the questions that are really unanswerable because the perfect boat doesn't exist. Fiberglass? Heavy-grade aluminum? Regular aluminum? New? Used? Get the right boat and upgrade the motor or buy a great motor and get a boat that will work?

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Episode 105 - From The Narrows to The Bay

Sat, 17 Aug 2019 11:58:00 -0800

How does a student from Ketchikan High School measure up against students from the Lower 48? Pretty well. I talk with 2018 Ketchikan High School Valedictorian Largim Zhuta. As a senior Largim was part of the 2018 High School Academic Decathlon Division III National Championship team and just finished his freshman year at Santa Clara University. We talk academic transition, Alaska stereotypes, social media's impact on being homesick, learning from failure and starting to figure out the meaning of success.

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Episode 104 - Telling Good Stories

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 15:16:00 -0800

I've always liked reading and listening to hunters and anglers who tell stories with their audience, not their ego, in mind. A good hunting story is about a little bit of suffering, a little honesty and just the right embellishment. With blacktail deer season 11 days old, hunters have some great stories that I love hearing, and others with simple, chest thumping tales that tell you more about their need for validation than their skill as hunter. This happens a lot in podcasts and outdoor writing and I hope I don't fall into that.

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Episode 103 - 4 - Point vs. Forkie, Opening Day Recap

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 21:04:00 -0800

Opening Day in the alpine did not disappoint, but it didn't exactly go as planned for Fairbanks resident Steve Shannon and myself. We recap our hunt, but thanks to a lack of specifics and more closing thoughts, I recorded a preface which comes before the recap. In that preamble I talk about why doing hard things is step one for self-confidence and the hypothetical that acts as justification for choosing a 4-point over a forkie rarely happens (never for me) and if someone just wants to shoot 4-points, he or she should just say it.

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Episode 102 - The Heart Of Hunting

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 06:16:00 -0800

Steve Frith from The Heart of Hunting and I talk filming hunts, how to get started, the importance of a good eye rather than expensive gear and the importance of a solid, safe hunting program. Steve recently released the short film of Harrison Gottschling's Dall sheep hunt. Harrison told the story of his hunt on Episode 58 of this podcast.

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Episode 101 - Trout Fest And Alpine Obsession

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 08:02:00 -0800

After fishing 7 rivers in 4 states over the last 15 days, Trout Fest 2019 is over and it's time to get into the alpine for blacktail bucks. In this short episode I talk about the importance of always having something to look forward to, and why it's impossible to say one is better than the other.

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Episode 100 - Mindset For Life And Business

Sat, 13 Jul 2019 14:17:00 -0800

My buddy Danny Lehr went from high school teacher and CrossFit gym owner to full-time business owner as co-founder of Caffeine and Kilos. We talk about some of the keys for individual and business growth, the importance of mindset and practice, as well as the need to grow as life changes otherwise one is doomed to stagnancy.

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Episode 99 - Bringing Humility To An Ego - Driven Field

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:50:00 -0800

Though we identify as hunters and anglers, we are hunting and fishing only a fraction of our lives. We have to make sure we take care of ourselves in the off season too. If we are lucky enough to be outdoors 100 days out of the year, that's less than a third of our annual days. What are we doing with the rest of our lives? And if we are totally at the mercy of success so we can tell other people how awesome we are as anglers or hunters, we run the risk of being too dependent on success for fulfillment. The better shape we are in emotionally and physically for our hunt or trip, the better the experience.

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Episode 98 - Favorite Flies And Legendary Rivers

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 06:28:00 -0800

In the last three weeks I've been able to camp on the banks of some excellent rivers in Wyoming and Colorado. I talk about my favorite trout flies, why catching "the fish" each river isn't always a good thing and why meeting locals makes the experience better.

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Episode 97 - Shaping Your Identity

Sat, 22 Jun 2019 12:00:00 -0800

Tanner Harms was one win from becoming an All-American, but lost to his nemesis at the 2016 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. Now he's adjusting to a new identity that doesn't involve wrestling. We all move on from who we were in high school, college and even as adults. For some, finding an identity can be difficult because they've been known as ____________ for so long. I talk to Tanner about lessons learned from sports, chasing a fulfilling lifestyle, and not living off old memories.

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Episode 96 - Gear We Like, Companies We Like To Support

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 10:51:00 -0800

What happens when outdoor companies and personalities get huge? Does quality, content or customer service suffer? Should politics play a role in a company you support? Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling and I discuss brands, products and outdoor companies we like to support as your average run-of-the-mill outdoorsmen. Harrison and I discussed his Dall sheep hunt in Episode 58.

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Episode 95 - Self - Awareness and Virtue Signaling

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0800

Gym owner Chuy Medina (Resident CrossFit, Modesto, CA) and I talk about the importance of being self-aware, the difference between being who you are and just wanting other people to think you are something morally or otherwise.

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Episode 94 - Betting On Yourself In Life And Hunting

Fri, 31 May 2019 15:52:00 -0800

From a tiny town on an island in Southeast Alaska to graduating from Medical School from the University of Washington, my buddy Stephen Ellison had every excuse at his disposal. However, he refused to listen to any of them. He weekend warrior hunts Dall Sheep, moose and took me to his special blacktail deer place where I took my first 4-point buck. We talk the easiest solutions to addressing health, living quotes, hunting food and prepping for our moose hunt.

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Episode 93 - Giving And Taking Advice

Sun, 26 May 2019 18:54:00 -0800

Who knows enough to really be able to give good advice? We're all just fumbling around trying to figure stuff out and if we listened to advice we shouldn't then make the same mistakes someone told us to avoid, right? Life is weird, but entertaining.

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Episode 92 - Chasing Likes And Being Legit

Sun, 19 May 2019 14:23:00 -0800

I recently checked my social media and podcast motives...am I in this for likes and money? If so, I need to check myself because if I need likes or sponsors to feel validated, I'm screwed. I also continue to try and put word to the need to the idea of making it easier for hunter and anglers to travel to other states. They have every right, but what local wants more pressure?

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Episode 91 - Being A Good Guest And A Good Local

Sun, 12 May 2019 07:40:00 -0800

“If I had one night left, what am I going to go eat, what am I going to go drink and who do I need to go talk to?” That's Matt Hamilton's motto and in this episode we talk about being a good guest, good local, and the real value of being a widely known artist. Hint: it's not money.

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Episode 90 - Glassing For Bears

Sat, 04 May 2019 16:37:00 -0800

While glassing for black bear, I ponder arrogant story tellers, expectations, societal norms, home ownership and putting words to lifestyles.

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Episode 89 - Spring Bears And Escape Philosophy

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 07:34:00 -0800

The idea of escaping reality is a tricky one because not only do you have to define escape but also reality. I touch on those as well as being alone on hunts and the coming invasion of summer tourists, of which I will be one myself this summer, so I can't be judgmental.

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Episode 88 - Representing The Cause

Sun, 21 Apr 2019 09:27:00 -0800

Great points are often lost thanks to stupidity and anger. From the ethics of hunting contests to committing crimes in the name of human rights, there are always examples of extreme lengths some go when they believe they are wronged. The result, often times, is a loss of point validity and patience for others to listen.

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Episode 87 - Lost Steelhead, Lost Crab Pots And Lucky Hats

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 09:26:00 -0800

I lost a steelhead and a crab pot yesterday, so I talk about that as well as the importance of being present and not so caught up in the result. I also talk about why I don't trust gear reviews by customers, but I do trust podcast reviews.

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Episode 86 - Commercial Fishing And Mentoring

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 07:05:00 -0800

Derek Meister has been punching his Alaska card since he moved to Ketchikan 7 years ago. In addition to all the typical camping, hiking, kayaking locals do, he has worked on commercial fishing boats. He is the school psychologist at Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District, so we talk the benefits of a community like Ketchikan for student growth, why people choose to come back to Ketchikan, mentoring opportunities, and mindfulness.

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Episode 85 - Facts, Biology And Being A Good Guest

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 17:01:00 -0800

For the past few months I've been listening to the Right to Roam Podcast by four guys from Wyoming. It's not your typical hunting podcast as these guys have biology backgrounds so there's science and facts, not just anecdote, when they get into things. We talk about being good guests, hunting ethics, social norms, earning local status and figuring out the hunting regulations in different states.

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Episode 84 - Routines and senior quote lifestyles

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 10:09:00 -0800

You know when people like quotes because it represents a lifestyle they wish they led, and then you think, 'Wait a minute...is that me?' and you immediately head to the woods or river? In this episode I talk about distraction vs. happiness, getting a specific adventure spot dialed in vs. seeing new territory and personal development.

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Episode 83 - Backcountry Skiing In Wyoming

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 15:18:00 -0800

I hadn't been on skis since I was a freshman in high school, but my first backcountry touring adventure in Wyomings Medicine Bow National Forest was a success. I learned that it's nothing like anything I've done before, that I'm pretty bad at it, but I got better and really had a good time. I also talk about the best places to offer and the worst. Something like a misery index.

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Episode 82 - Acceptable Contradictions?

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 15:29:00 -0800

There's nothing wrong with asking yourself questions...think about why someone might hate hunting, why fly fishing is cruel or why the Alaska Marine Highway is just a luxury. When you digest those points of view you come out with a better understanding of what you believe, you change your world view, or end up really overwhelmed with the level of complexity of the issues. And that the Alaska Marine Highway is vital to Southeast Alaska.

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Episode 81 - Alaskan March Madness

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 08:04:00 -0900

What makes an expert, and the insanity of the Region V Basketball Tournament. I talk about some of the more notable aspects of athletic travel in southeast Alaska - circling rural airports, malfunctioning runway lights, 2-week trips, diverted flights to Seattle and game socks after six road games.

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Episode 80 - Noise, Politics, Happiness And Manipulation

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 09:46:00 -0900

In the last two years I have paid much more attention to what it means to "love the outdoors" and the debates surrounding how that should best be done. In this episode I talk about social pressure for the government to regulate rather than preserve freedom, the freedom to define happiness, and the freedom to decide how much I want negativity to impact my mood and how I treat others.

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Episode 79 - Sharing Hunt Info And Using Your Voice Effectively

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 18:29:00 -0900

In this episode I talk with Backcountry Hunters and Anglers board member Steve Shannon about the importance of making the most out of your voice since most politicians don’t read your Facebook feed to find out about important issues. We also talk about drawing tags, sharing information, and how best to represent our lifestyle as hunters and anglers.

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Episode 78 - Future Of Fish

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 13:44:00 -0900

Inspired by Mark Kurlansky's Cod, I wonder what the future holds for our fishing stocks. The book is about the history of cod and how the destructive efficiency of the commercial fishing industry (trawlers) has devastated populations of cod. I talk about king salmon in California, salmon in southeast Alaska, and amplifying your voice beyond Facebook posts by joining organizations that are attempting to do what's best going forward.

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Episode 77 - Winners And Whiners

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 06:07:00 -0900

Going sports for this one since the local high school is playing the rival Friday and Saturday, much of earth is cheering against the Patriots on Sunday, someone to beat the UConn women and why I detest the full-send isolation of James Harden.

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Episode 76 - Spring Bear, Steelhead And Fitness

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 14:00:00 -0900

Last week of January coming up, I can almost smell the spring black bear... but hold on, patience is necessary. The last two years southeast Alaska has had crazy snow storms in March and even into April, so as excited as I am for spring steelhead and spring bear, I have to resist the temptation to get too stoke. Instead, more time in the gym getting into shape and more time shooting the bow.

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Episode 75 - ”Obsolete” Man Skills

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 08:37:00 -0900

For this episode I'm a total sucker because I'm promoting an article by reacting to it. Anyway, there's a list of 7 obsolete man skills that the 21st Century Man should abandon "if you’re at all interested in being ahead of the curve" that I think embodies the disjointed, unclear message regarding who men are and who they should be. Allowing societal norms or relying on societal approval to dictate a lifestyle might not be the best way to achieve individual or societal happiness.

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Episode 74 - Failing With Some Grace

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 16:46:00 -0900

Dry spells happen. My current dry spell is something unlike any dry spell I have experienced as a hunter and angler. Unfortunately it has coincided with two visits from my girlfriend. I hope she doesn't think I'm a bad Alaskan.

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Episode 73 - Who Am I?

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 08:44:00 -0900

A week’s worth of thoughts about the responsibility I have as a hunter and angler, the books and podcasts I have consumed and have positively influenced me.

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Episode 72 - Backcountry Skiing In Ketchikan

Sat, 22 Dec 2018 08:02:00 -0900

I know very little about skiing and snowboarding, but have done a little. I wanted to know what the backcountry skiing scene was like in Ketchikan so I talked to my buddies Shawn, Chad and Ian about it. The three of them talk about how to get back to the mountain, gauge snow safety, then shredding fresh, backcountry snow with not a lift in sight.

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Episode 71 - Year One At Knudson Cove Marina

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 08:57:00 -0900

Matt Burbank is the new owner of Knudson Cove Marina in Ketchikan. We talk about the behind the scenes, his adjustment to the career change, first impressions of the Ketchikan community and mule deer hunting.

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Episode 70 - Ketchikan’s Local Beer

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 07:12:00 -0900

Part 1: Bawden Street Brewing Co. owner Sean Heismann talks about his first summer and winter seasons in Ketchikan. He talks about how he got started, what he loves about the science of brewing and how welcomed he and his wife have been by Ketchikan. Part 2: Sean takes us through a tasting of the beers he currently has available.

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Episode 69 - Everything Seafood With Fish From Trish

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 08:42:00 -0900

Trish from Fish from Trish talks her favorite seafood, where she gets hers, how long frozen fish lasts in the freezer and why people should buy local and not farmed.

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Episode 68 - Calling Deer With The Drop Shot Calls Guys

Sun, 25 Nov 2018 10:43:00 -0900

I visited the Drop Shot Calls workbench to talk about how they got started, what makes a good call, when you should call, how long you should wait and what works for them. We also talk about the right tools for the job, rut tactics, and the future of the resource.

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Episode 67 - What Just Happened?

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 15:54:00 -0900

You know when you were in 5th grade and all amped up for the tip off your basketball game, and the tip went to you, but you were on the left side of the court and had to dribble with your left and try to shoot with your left when you’re right handed? That’s how Rut 2018 has felt. Anticipation and excitement followed by disaster. I discuss this, what I’ve learned and the appreciation for resources on my final rut hunt in Unit 1A.

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Episode 66 - Biomass Energy, Ketchikan History And Home Building

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 20:24:00 -0900

Ketchikan resident Larry Jackson and I talk about custom homes, Ketchikan history, biomass energy and how wood or pellets can be an effective alternative for schools, businesses and residential homes.

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Episode 65 - Rut Failures, Why Bow Hunt And A Last Word On Prop 1

Sun, 04 Nov 2018 16:48:00 -0900

Last year on Nov. 4 I shot a beautiful 3x4 buck. This year, nothing. I've camped the last three weekends and have only seen three does. Meanwhile, people are taking massive bucks in the same area. So I talk about that, why I bow hunt and give a last word on Prop. 1.

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Episode 64 - Prop 1 Debate...with Myself, While Hunting

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 18:06:00 -0800

After three hours in the woods with my bow, I record a podcast about Prop 1. I was, at first glance, a clear "Yes." Then I tried to persuade myself to "No," just to make sure I was a "Yes" for sure. But I understood the concerns from the "No" crowd, so now I'm in the middle. The best decisions are made from a place of understanding. Better to be conflicted thanks to research than manipulated by slogans.

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Episode 63 - Spitting In Museums And Gaining Perspective

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 13:33:00 -0800

After a few days in DC for my cousin's wedding and to gain perspective, I am glad to be back in Ketchikan. I explain why it's good to get perspective, why the idea of a place like Alaska appeals so much to those deprived of real wild and I make a call for those with input on Prop 1.

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Episode 62 - Hunting Technology, Scouting Rut Territory

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 14:44:00 -0800

From Instagram to inReach there's a lot out there to help us scout and share, but it's not always a good thing.

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Episode 61 - October Alpine? Bowhunting, Gear And SE Alaska Hunting

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 10:08:00 -0800

Ketchikan resident Ryan John talks about the lead up to his first bow hunt success - a blacktail buck in the alpine. We talk gear, when alpine season ends, and the value of research all with the gentle sounds of fall behind us... sea gulls.

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Episode 60 - Better At Bowhunting

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 14:46:00 -0800

Bear at 10 yards, I nock an arrow and go through my checklist of what to do, not from experience because I've only taken 1 deer with my bow, but from research. I made the right call. On the drive back in from the hunt, I talk about the importance of practice and getting through all those early unsuccessful trips because that's the only way to get better. I'm a long way from where I want to be, but each trip gives me the chance to improve.

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Episode 59 - When Does Alpine End?

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 11:49:00 -0800

I'm now 0-2 hunting with my buddy Evan, so we will likely not be "hunting buddies" until we have some success. Anyway, after we failed to take a buck in the alpine (him) or down low (me) I wonder at what point the alpine season really ends. I discuss that and how my first camp out using a hammock instead of a tent went.

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Episode 58 - Dall Sheep In Interior Alaska

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 09:45:00 -0800

Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling talks about his over the counter Dall Sheep hunt that did not go as planned, but he ended up with a dream result.

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Episode 57 - Gilpin Lake Colorado

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 05:42:00 -0800

The Labor Day fishing bonanza at Gilpin Lake outside of Steamboat Springs, CO, was ruined thanks to me forgetting the flies in my girlfriend's car. Good work. However, I do talk about the trail, flies that were recommended and the evening hatch in this short camping review podcast.

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Episode 56 - Bears, Putting Up Fish And The Future

Sun, 26 Aug 2018 18:02:00 -0800

At a river near Ketchikan, I talk black bears, putting up fish and deer for the winter, conservation and the start of another school year with my buddy Zack.

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Episode 55 - Kings And Bucks, Crisis Or Just A Dip?

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 17:17:00 -0800

Disconcerting days for locals regarding two resources - salmon and deer. I talk about the recent reduction of deer for non-qualified hunters in Unit 2 (Federal land only) and the time change of the salmon derby in Ketchikan because of poor Chinook returns. Concerns over the deer population in Unit 2 lead to the change from 4 bucks to 2, (effective Aug. 16) which some interpret as pointing blame specifically at non-residents (some read Ketchikan specifically) for the dip in blacktail population on Prince of Wales. It's a bit of a mess, and if hunters are divided and pointing blame at each other, we lose the ability to be united to protect the resource.

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Episode 54 - Gear, Tactics, Food, Books - What I’ve Learned

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 07:58:00 -0800

Heading down the mountain from a solo hunting trip in the alpine, I talk things I've learned about gear, hunting in heat, food and more insight from one of my favorite books.

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Episode 53 - Alpine Hunting Recap

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 11:17:00 -0800

Three buddies from California and I recap their hunting trip to the Ketchikan area for Unit 1 Sitka Blacktail. Cody and I took bucks with two minutes of each other in the same bowl on a mountain.

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Episode 52 - Kayaking Glacier Bay And Hiking The Chilkoot Trail

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 09:11:00 -0800

Near a campfire I talk kayaking Glacier Bay, hiking the iconic Chilkoot Trail and Prince of Wales Island with four first-time visitors to Alaska (Abby Hoffman, Ian Hall, Jordan Kiler and Tanner Harms) and Klawock resident Tonya Busse. We cover trip planning, necessary gear and the importance of good people.

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Episode 51 - Local Legend Don Busse

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 05:47:00 -0800

Klawock resident and local hunting legend Don Busse and I talk about fishing, hunting, mentors, learning, missed deer, deer populations, whether or not people hunt where they say they do and gear.

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Episode 50 - Four Dudes Around A Campfire

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0800

Four buddies from California and I talk about the importance of experiences like camping in Alaska to reboot and help them become better fathers, husbands and men. All of this while waiting for our dinner to cook after a long day of fishing on Prince of Wales Island.

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Episode 49 - Alpine Scouting for bowhunting

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 07:00:00 -0800

Fogged in during a mountain scout, Jesse Knock and I talk about bowhunting in the alpine, how to more effectively use Google Earth and expressing something like the heavy hunting experience through videography, photography, writing or even social media.

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Episode 48 - Native Art With Ronnie Fairbanks

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 10:28:00 -0800

High school and middle school Native Art teacher Ronnie Fairbanks talks teaching Native Art, the value it brings to a community and individual creativity within a traditional art form. Also, how do you bend wood to make a box? Ronnie knows.

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Episode 47 - Off The Hook Taxidermy

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 09:30:00 -0800

Klawock resident Travis Peterson talks about why he got into fish taxidermy, how to prepare your fish mounting and recaps his musk ox bow hunt.

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Episode 46 - The Creative Hustle

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 07:00:00 -0800

A podcast months in the making with the Creative Hustler himself Matt Hamilton. Great stuff about finding inspiration, work ethic, tenacity and some Ketchikan history.

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Episode 45 - Hiking And Scouting

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 11:00:00 -0800

On the way back down from scouting some deer territory, I talk bear protection on hikes, why it's important to not totally rely on Google Earth and the best trails in the Ketchikan area.

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Episode 44 - Snagging Terminal Salmon

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 19:56:00 -0800

It's normally called a "foul hook" but in some areas of Alaska, it is legal to snag salmon. It's crazy, it's exciting and it's frowned upon by those who haven't done it but it's an efficient way to harvest meat from fish that won't spawn.

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Episode 43 - Alpine Deer Prep

Tue, 29 May 2018 17:56:00 -0800

Four things to consider for your Southeast Alaska alpine deer hunt: crampons, trekking poles, water, stabilizers! Short episode about the things you might not think about for your blacktail hunt in August.

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Episode 42 - Forest Service Cabins

Mon, 21 May 2018 05:35:00 -0800

Developed Recreation Manager Brad Schumaker and I talk about the Forest Service Cabins in the Ketchikan Area. We talk use, popularity, and the impact funding has had on upkeep of the cabins.

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Episode 41 - Black Bear Success And The Bliss of Rural Life

Mon, 14 May 2018 17:58:00 -0800

I tell the maybe confusing story of taking a black bear on Saturday then dive into a rant about how suffocating life is without frequent adventure and how it's important to do things that make you feel alive, even if you're not good at first.

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Episode 40 - Conservation And Bear Hunting Recap

Sun, 06 May 2018 19:36:00 -0800

Recorded a conservation rant on my way to hunt bear this morning on how to survive wolf attacks, not actual wolves, people attacking those who hunt what hunts their food, then recapped the weekend of bear hunting near Ketchikan.

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Episode 39 - Steelhead Part 3

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 23:00:00 -0800

Fly fishing guide Jack Carson and I talk about the accident that postponed college, how it feels to be a 19-year old guide, whether or not growing up on an island in Alaska was a detriment and how to get through the winters.

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Episode 38 - Juneau and jet boats

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 07:19:00 -0800

Troy Sharp and I discuss Juneau in summer, where to hike, where to have a beach bonfire, mountain goat hunting and a new inflatable jet boat.

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Episode 37 - It’s Okay To Be Terrible, Just Don’t Quit

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 16:59:00 -0800

My thoughts on quitting while in the forest by a stream on an yet another unsuccessful grouse hunt.

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Episode 36 - BHA Recap, Having A Voice

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 06:15:00 -0800

Steve Shannon returned from the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Rendezvous and we talk epic stories, protecting resources, access, and getting involved so decisions made which impact us, are done with us in mind.

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Episode 35 - Spring Black Bear #1

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 12:18:00 -0800

It's spring black bear season in Southeast Alaska. In this solo episode I talk about locating, tracking and cooking black bear in Units 1 and 2.

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Episode 34 - Steelhead Part 2 - Rods, Reels And Flies With Kayla Roys

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 07:46:00 -0800

Kayla Roys from Alaska Fly Fishing Goods talks fly fishing around Juneau, rod and reel preference and of course, steelhead.

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Episode 33 - DIY Moose Hunts In Southcentral Alaska

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 16:05:00 -0800

I talk do it yourself moose hunting in south central Alaska with my buddy Stephen Ellison.

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Episode 32 - College Basketball And Journalism Ethics

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 13:05:00 -0800

Talked with my buddy Brett Fera (Director of Student Media at the University of Arizona) about Arizona basketball, the reaction to the loss to Buffalo, the Max Game Upset Special phenomenon, due process and journalism ethics. Such an interesting and maybe frustrating time to cover college basketball in an era of be-first-journalism. in an epic sports journalism episode. But yes, I was able to work hunting and veganism in there.

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Episode 31 - March Madness And Boat Fires

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 16:25:00 -0800

My buddy Rob Buckingham and I try to identify the state in which colleges like Lipscomb and Bucknell are located, talk boats, boat fires and the distant memories of our own March Madness as high school basketball players.

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Episode 30 - Steelhead Part 1

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 15:35:00 -0800

Part one about getting excited for steelhead fishing. I'll tell you the rod, reel and flies I use, how long I'll hit a spot, but not where I go.

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Episode 29 - DIY Archery Caribou North Of The Arctic Circle

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 12:09:00 -0900

Do it yourself bowhunting for caribou along the Haul Road north of Fairbanks, Alaska with Steve Shannon and Tim Murphrey.

Episode 28 - Rural Life And Education

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 06:11:00 -0900

Prince of Wales Island resident Corby Wehymiller talks rural education opportunities, growing up before the internet, why trying to Win on Facebook is stupid, and how to get through the winter in a small town on a big island.

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Episode 27 - Health And Lifestyle

Sat, 24 Feb 2018 12:39:00 -0900

Anna and Amanda preview the summer retreat they are hosting, talk the value of community, the dangers of mob psychology and why it's important to challenge your own thinking.

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Episode 26 - Morning routines and focus words

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 06:13:00 -0900

Another solo episode in which I look at my focus words for 2018 (prioritize, create) and briefly check my progress.

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Episode 25 - Alaska Travel

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 15:36:00 -0900

Thirteen hours in airplanes and airports to arrive 2 and a half hours late to play a basketball game...excuses? Nah. Just returned from a basketball trip to Juneau that was successful but a little chaotic.

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Episode 24 - Gear and hunts

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 17:58:00 -0900

Steve Shannon talks packs, bows, losing bows, Alaskan rites of passage, the primal urge that gets us outside and why experiencing real things are the only way to real happiness.

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Episode 23 - Arizona Coues Deer

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 07:31:00 -0900

Cody Lee and Zac Gann talk about their coues whitetail deer hunt in Arizona and educating anti-hunters rather than being combative.

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Episode 22 - King Salmon Fishing

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 18:12:00 -0900

Salt water guide Howie Daggs talks guiding for king salmon, sea lions, what makes the perfect client, why wives out fish their husbands and the Alaska life.

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Episode 21 - Caribou Hunting

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 18:35:00 -0900

Fairbanks resident Steve Shannon talks hunting in interior Alaska, being in shape for big hunts, being confident in the woods and the dangers of outsourcing our entertainment and attention.

Episode 20 - Gym Communities

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 08:06:00 -0900

Kelsey Sheehan, Chuy Medina and Brennan Koeller talk focus words for 2018, resolutions, helping people optimize their health, embarrassing moments and the importance of positive influences when trying to get the most out of life.

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Episode 19 - Resolutions and Accountability

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 10:51:00 -0900

The LMT crew discusses resolutions, accountability, handling setbacks, implementing goals and the value of escaping chaos.

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Episode 18 - Hunting Optics

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 17:05:00 -0900

Jesse Knock talks about the state of the deer population on Prince of Wales Island and the benefits of buying good gear once rather than cheap stuff multiple times.

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Episode 17 - Being excited about what you do

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 21:53:00 -0900

Caffeine and Kilos co-founder Danny Lehr talks freeway coffee in Jersey, why counting down to retirement sucks, doing something with plans rather than just making them and the best of his Alaskan adventures.

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Episode 16 - High School Travel

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 15:19:00 -0900

Yeah, we do play sports in Alaska, what is travel like when you can't take a bus? Planes, boats, weather, delays, staying in the home of a rival player. I talk about a 2-week road trip for 6 games I took in high school and ending up in Seattle last year as a coach because turbulence was too bad for our Alaska Airlines jet to land in Ketchikan. Just part of being an athlete or coach in Southeast Alaska.

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Episode 15 - Wellness

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 06:51:00 -0900

Feeding Happiness founder Anna Ulmer talks about the school she started in Costa Rica, the importance of wellness education, contemplates her social media existence and her first winter in Ketchikan.

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Episode 14 - Living healthy

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 09:23:00 -0900

Sadie Case talks her relationship with food, relationship with Alaskan winters and how to be fit and happy by paying attention to fitness and diet rather than looking for pills or medication.

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Episode 13 - Rural Alaska Living

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 21:40:00 -0900

Corby Weyhmiller and I talk rural education, traditional values that have endured specifically with regard to Native culture, and the serious threat substance abuse has brought to our home island.

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Episode 12 - Trust and growth

Sat, 02 Dec 2017 08:06:00 -0900

Ketchikan CrossFit owner Kevin Manabat talks trust in the gym, how to take and give criticism rather than "shame" or enable, whether or not mental toughness can be learned and how to be happy and feel good.

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Episode 11 - ”The difference between me and them”

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:52:00 -0900

Brennan Koeller talks about Crossfit filling the athletic void after high school sports, his influences and his life as a competitive lifter, coach and college student.

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Episode 10 - Deer Recap

Sat, 25 Nov 2017 19:22:00 -0900

What do four Alaskans talk about in a garage around a hanging deer? - calling in deer - what to do when wolves visit - how to gauge black bear size - the best of the 2017 hunting season - the worst of the 2017 hunting season

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Episode 9 - Building a program

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 07:41:00 -0900

Willie Herrera talks staying true to foundational principles not only while building an athletic program but as a husband and father. Willie coaches football at East Union High School in Manteca, California.

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Episode 8 - California fly fishing

Sat, 18 Nov 2017 14:22:00 -0900

Kurt Johnson talks about fly fishing for striper in the famous California Delta, the dynamics of figuring out new water and why Montana is so overwhelming.

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Episode 7 - Pacific Crest Trail

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 07:27:00 -0900

Amanda Davidshofer talks about her 5-month 6-day Pacific Crest Trail hike, kayaking to Alaska from Washington, settling into Ketchikan and starting the Strength and Empowerment Program which promotes healthy living.

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Episode 6 - Blacktail Success

Sun, 12 Nov 2017 14:17:00 -0900

I discuss an... unorthodox method to bring in deer, the upcoming Alaska permit hunts and the predator/prey dynamics on Prince of Wales Island.

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Episode 5 - Making the most

Sun, 05 Nov 2017 08:59:00 -0800

Resident CrossFit (Modesto, CA) owner Chuy Medina talks perceived potential vs. actual potential, finding true wellness rather than just physical fitness and of course, the best parts of Alaska.

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Episode 4 - Solo Hunting

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 13:50:00 -0800

Weekend hunting recap, why hunts are so engaging, how describing the experience is impossible and why we should change the definition of "average."

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Episode 3 - From Prince of Wales to the Pentagon

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 17:48:00 -0800

From Prince of Wales to the Pentagon, my buddy Jeremy Howell talks about having two jobs to pay rent his senior year so he could graduate from Klawock High School, then rise to working for the second most powerful man in Navy medicine.

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Episode 2 - Getting after it

Sun, 22 Oct 2017 16:19:00 -0800

Zack Trudeau talks working through the frustration of early-career hunting, how he ended up in Ketchikan from Philadelphia, and the lasting impressions made by a serious childhood illness.

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Episode 1 - Alaska by Alaskans

Sat, 21 Oct 2017 13:41:00 -0800

Jeff Lund is a teacher and writer in Ketchikan, Alaska. This podcast is going to be a chance to hear Alaskans talk about Alaska, and give listeners a look at what it is like to live here year-round.

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