In the inaugural episode of The Lodge, Tom Schneider and Taylor Riley tackle one of the most debated—and misunderstood—topics in modern hunting culture: influencers.
Have social media personalities helped grow the hunting industry, or have they diluted its values, ethics, and traditions? From viral hunts and brand deals to education, conservation, and authenticity, this episode dives into the real impact influencers are having on hunting today.
Rather than throwing stones, Tom and Taylor break down the nuance—what actually defines an influencer, where problems arise, and how content creators can either strengthen or harm the future of hunting depending on how they show up.
What does “influencer” actually mean in the hunting world?
Are influencers educators, entertainers, marketers—or something else entirely?
How social media exposure affects public perception of hunting
When monetization crosses the line—and when it doesn’t
Examples of other industries that changed for better or worse due to influencer culture
The responsibility that comes with having an audience
How everyday hunters fit into this conversation
Is influencing inherently bad for hunting—or are we blaming the tool instead of how it’s being used?
This episode sets the tone for The Lodge: honest conversations, differing perspectives, and a shared goal of protecting the future of hunting while adapting to a changing media landscape.
Hosted by:
Tom Schneider — Stuck N The Rut
Taylor Riley — 360 Sportsman