Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast ASCEND by Ducks Unlimited
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| The Power of Perception: How Social Media Shapes the Narrative of Hunting | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:44:56 | |
In an era dominated by social media, a single photo can tell a thousand words—or ignite an online firestorm. How do the images hunters post online shape public perception, and what message are we actually sending to the non-hunting world? In this episode of the Ascend Podcast, host Adrian sits down with Dr. Britt Hosmer Longoria—traveler, PhD, storyteller, conservationist, and co-founder of the Longoria Hosmer Foundation. Following an experience where a photo of her went viral and triggered intense backlash, Britt pursued a PhD in strategic communication to dive deep into the semiotics—the signs and symbols—of trophy photos on Instagram. Britt breaks down why traditional "grip and grin" photos often translate as possession and dominance to outsiders, how subtle shifts in body language and perspective can completely change the tone of an image, and how hunters can navigate difficult, emotional conversations on social media. In this episode, you'll learn:
Follow along for more real conversations, outdoor stories, and insights from women shaping the future of hunting and conservation. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| How to Recruit, Retain, and Empower Women in Conservation | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:45:15 | |
Women are entering outdoor sports at record rates, but they are also leaving—or "churning"—at higher rates than men. What does it actually take to help women feel competent, confident, and eager to stay in the outdoors? In this episode of the Ascend Podcast, host Erin Crider sits down with conservation legend Christine Thomas—founder of the groundbreaking Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program and Senior Vice President of Conservation on the board of Ducks Unlimited. Together, they unpack decades of research on the specific barriers women face when learning to hunt, fish, and navigate the outdoors. Christine shares how a single 1991 workshop blossomed into an international movement spanning 46 states and multiple Canadian provinces. She also dives into the psychology of confidence, why the "next step" after introductory courses is critical, and how Ducks Unlimited successfully doubled its pace of conservation to protect 1 million acres a year.
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Hunting Invasives: The Women Protecting Florida’s Wild Places | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:40:55 | |
Florida is home to some of the most unique ecosystems in the country and some of its most destructive invasive species. In this episode of the Ascend Podcast, host Adrienne sits down with conservation professionals Elizabeth Guthrie and Kaylyn Glenn to unpack the growing threat of invasive species in Florida and what it really takes to protect an ecosystem. From invasive plants and prescribed fire to iguanas, tegus, and the infamous Burmese python, Elizabeth and Kaylyn explain how non-native species can disrupt ecosystems, threaten native wildlife, and change landscapes that have existed for generations. Kaylyn, a 10th-generation Floridian and professional Burmese python hunter, takes listeners inside the world of python hunting in the Everglades including how hunters find these incredibly well-camouflaged predators, why breeding season is critical, and what happens when you come face-to-face with an 18-foot python sitting on a nest of 80 eggs. But this conversation goes beyond pythons. Elizabeth and Kaylyn explain why hunting can be conservation, how prescribed fire helps maintain healthy ecosystems, why there is no single solution to invasive species, and what everyday people can do at home to support native wildlife. In this episode, you'll learn:
Follow @duascend or visit Ducks Unlimited Ascend for more stories, outdoor education, and resources for women in the outdoors. Ascend by Ducks Unlimited is brought to you by: DRY POCKET — @drypocketofficial Use promo code ASCEND for 25% off your order. OKLAHOMA JOE'S — @OklahomaJoesSmokers Use promo code DUCKS10 for 10% off your order. WESTERN SPIRITS / BIRD DOG WHISKEY
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Women, Adventure, and Invasive Hunts: Pythons, Iguanas, and Quail Camp Stories | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:47:59 | |
From Arizona quail hunting to chasing invasive species in Florida, this episode is packed with adventure, conservation, and laughs. Ducks Unlimited digital media producer Ruby flips the script and steps in front of the microphone to talk with Brandy Elrod, Ashley, and Blythe of Lady Outdoors Lifestyle. Together, they recap two unforgettable Ascend adventures: an Arizona quail hunt with Her Upland and a Florida conservation trip targeting invasive pythons, iguanas, and fish. The group shares stories about learning new hunting disciplines, empowering women through outdoor education, building friendships through organized hunts, and stepping outside comfort zones. You'll also hear behind-the-scenes moments from filming the adventures, surprising conservation lessons, and plenty of unexpected laughs along the way. In this episode, you'll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Living With Lyme Disease: What Every Hunter Needs to Know About Tick-Borne Illness | 26 Jul 2026 | 00:29:12 | |
Learn how to recognize tick-borne illness symptoms, reduce your risk in the field, and advocate for your health if something feels wrong. Host Adrian Jessen sits down with hunter and outdoorswoman Laura Adele to share her life-changing experience with Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and the long-term impacts of tick-borne illness. What began as a turkey hunt in 2012 became a years-long medical journey involving misdiagnoses, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatment. Laura shares the symptoms she wishes she had recognized sooner, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, and the prevention practices she never skips today. This conversation is a powerful reminder that every hunter, angler, and outdoor enthusiast should take tick exposure seriously. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Follow along for more real conversations, outdoor stories, and insights from women shaping the future of hunting and conservation. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Why More Women Than Ever Are Getting Into Hunting | 12 Jul 2026 | 00:28:18 | |
Discover how women are entering hunting and shooting sports faster than ever—and where to find the support to get started. Host Bethany Beathard sits down with Taniya Bethke, Director of Operations for the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports, to discuss the growth of women in hunting, mentorship opportunities, and the programs helping newcomers feel confident in the outdoors. From adult-onset hunters and first-time firearm owners to mentorship networks and state-led programs, Taniya shares what’s driving participation growth and why social support may be the single most important factor in helping women stay involved. The conversation also explores representation, inclusion, family participation, and how outdoor organizations are adapting to meet the needs of modern audiences. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| How Women Find Hunting Mentors, Group Hunts, and Trusted Outfitters | 28 Jun 2026 | 00:22:28 | |
Learn how to find safe, welcoming hunting opportunities—even if you’ve never hunted before. What started as a small group of 10 women quickly grew into a nationwide community hosting dozens of trips each year. In this episode, Jaycey and Laurel share how they evaluate outfitters, help beginners get started, build confidence in new hunters, and create spaces where women can learn, connect, and succeed in the outdoors without intimidation or gatekeeping. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Follow along with the Ascend community at @duascend or visit ducks.org/ascend. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| The Turkey Hunting Lessons We Learned... the Hard Way | 14 Jun 2026 | 00:20:17 | |
Every turkey hunter has a story they’ll never forget—and usually a lesson that came with it. In this special Ascend roundtable episode, Adrian, Julia, Bethany, and Erin swap some of their most memorable turkey hunting experiences, from birds that mysteriously came back to life after the shot to all-day crawls across open country and mountain hunts for Merriam’s turkeys. Along the way, they discuss what keeps them coming back to turkey hunting season after season, the calls they trust, the gear they won’t leave home without, and the little tricks that make long mornings in the woods more enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned turkey hunter or preparing for your first season, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and plenty of laughs. Topics covered: • Memorable turkey hunts and the lessons they taught • Why turkey hunting becomes addictive • Hunting Easterns, Rios, Merriam’s, and Osceolas • Mouth calls vs. slate calls vs. diaphragm calls • How movement ruins more setups than bad calling • Favorite turkey guns, gauges, and loads • Essential gear every turkey hunter carries • Tick prevention and staying comfortable in the field • Hunting snacks, coffee, Pop-Tarts, jerky, and other camp essentials • Why every experienced turkey hunter has at least one story that still hurts to tell Follow along with the Ascend community at @duascend or visit ducks.org/ascend. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| How to Get More Turkeys: Habitat Management That Actually Works | 31 May 2026 | 00:55:09 | |
Want more turkeys on your property? It starts with how you manage your land. From food sources and cover to prescribed fire and predator pressure, Courtney explains how habitat—not hunting—is the biggest factor affecting turkey numbers. Whether you own 20 acres or manage large tracts of land, this episode gives you practical steps to create better turkey habitat and stronger wildlife populations. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Women Hunting Elk: First Archery Harvest and Hard Lessons | 17 May 2026 | 00:28:24 | |
Learn what it really takes to harvest an elk on public land—from scouting to pack‑out—and how women are redefining success in hunting. From scouting and studying elk behavior to calling strategies, shot execution, and a brutal multi‑mile pack‑out, Anna shares the real highs and challenges behind the moment. The conversation also explores elk camp experiences, mentoring new hunters, and why defining your own version of success matters more than the outcome. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| How Farming and Soil Health Shape Wildlife, Water, and the Outdoors | 03 May 2026 | 01:03:48 | |
Learn how farming and conservation practices directly shape wildlife habitat, water quality, and the future of the outdoors. Joy brings a rare blend of real‑world farming experience, conservation science, and hunting perspective. Together, they explain cover crops, wetlands, edge‑of‑field practices, soil health, and how small changes on private land can create massive downstream benefits for wildlife and people alike. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Follow @duascend or visit ducks.org/ascend Presented by Ducks Unlimited. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| The Truth About Hunting : Host Round Table, Real Stories & Lessons | 19 Apr 2026 | 00:56:02 | |
What really happens behind the highlight reels of hunting and outdoor life? In this candid roundtable episode, Bethany, Adrienne, Erin, and Julia sit down to reflect on a full season of conversations, hunts, and hard-earned lessons. Instead of a single guest, this episode brings together the voices behind the podcast to unpack what stood out most from unforgettable guests and powerful community moments to the realities that don’t always make it onto social media. The group shares personal hunting stories, including first harvests, missed shots, and the emotional highs and lows that come with time in the field. From elk hunts in the mountains to first-time duck hunters finding their confidence, this episode highlights how growth often comes through failure, persistence, and shared experiences. They also dive into deeper themes: the rise of women in hunting, the importance of mentorship and communication, and how intentional time outdoors can restore balance in an otherwise fast-paced life. Whether it’s teaching beginners, navigating fear around firearms, or simply making time to get outside, the conversation emphasizes progress over perfection. Above all, this episode is a reminder that no one starts as an expert—and that the most meaningful moments often come from the messy, imperfect, real parts of the journey. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Follow along for more real conversations, outdoor stories, and insights from women shaping the future of hunting and conservation. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Women, Wilderness, and the Will to Provide: Homesteading & Gator Wrangling | 05 Apr 2026 | 00:41:04 | |
Discover how modern women are reclaiming ancestral skills—from raising and processing their own meat to handling unexpected encounters with Florida gators. Host Bethany Beathard sits down with Tiffany Sanders, homesteader, hunter, nurse, and nuisance‑gator responder, to explore what self‑sufficiency really looks like in today’s world. Tiffiny shares firsthand stories from the field, including the wildest gator call she and her husband ever responded to, how her children got involved, and what it’s like navigating communities that protect nuisance wildlife. The conversation shifts into the heart of Tiffiny’s work: empowering women to take ownership of their food sources. From home butchering and dispatching animals humanely to growing nutrient‑dense produce, she teaches women that you don’t have to be “born” into homesteading to thrive in it. Her background as a nurse opened her eyes to the connection between diet and health—and sparked her drive to grow and raise food intentionally. Together, Bethany and Tiffany dig into the historical roots of women feeding their families, the rise in self‑sufficiency post‑COVID, and why today’s homesteaders are simply rediscovering what women have always done.
Follow along with Bethany for more homesteading conversations, practical skills, and stories from women who live close to their roots. Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Carrying in the Field: How Women Stay Safe, Confident, and Prepared Outdoors | 22 Mar 2026 | 01:03:06 | |
Learn how women are taking safety, confidence, and responsibility into their own hands—both in the field and everyday life. Professional shotgun shooter and DU Ascend host Julia Stallings sits down with Audrey Wikan, Drake Waterfowl spokeswoman and former gun‑industry marketer, to discuss what women need to know about concealed carry, field carry, legal realities, holsters, draw practice, and staying equipped on hunts. Audrey shares her early experiences working behind a gun‑store counter at age 19, why women beelined to her with questions, what she carries now, and how she mentors new shooters. Together, they unpack the realities of traveling with firearms, carrying while hunting or fishing, choosing the right gun, staying legal across state lines, and building confidence through training and mentorship. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Backcountry Safety for Hunters: What Every Woman Needs to Carry and Know | 08 Mar 2026 | 00:57:33 | |
Learn how to stay safe, prepared, and confident in the backcountry—no matter the terrain or weather. Lanny breaks down what actually causes most backcountry emergencies, what to pack, how to prevent hypothermia and dehydration, and the mindset that saves lives when things go wrong. Her cautionary stories—from stabbing her thigh while quartering an elk to bonking at 12,000 feet—offer practical lessons for hunters and hikers of all levels. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Hunting Buddy Etiquette: Expectations, Safety, and Setting Each Other Up for Success | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:53:52 | |
Learn how to prepare for your next hunt with a partner—without stress, confusion, or mismatched expectations. From communication and gear planning to shooting lanes, dog work, shot selection, and physical ability, Erin and Caroline break down the conversations every pair of hunting partners should have before heading into the field. Their stories—both funny and practical—offer guidance for adult‑onset hunters, new buddies, and anyone preparing for a safe, enjoyable, low‑pressure hunt. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Finding Your Outdoor Community: How Women Build Confidence Together | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:54:43 | |
Discover how women find belonging, mentorship, and confidence by stepping into the outdoors together.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
WildHERness - INSTAGRAM Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| The Outdoor Icks: Real Talk on Confidence, Community, and Hunting Culture | 25 Jan 2026 | 01:06:15 | |
Learn how women navigate outdoor “icks,” confidence pressure, and community expectations without losing the joy of hunting. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Training Your First Duck Dog: What New Handlers Need to Know | 11 Jan 2026 | 00:38:31 | |
Learn what it really takes to train and hunt with your first duck dog—without pressure or perfection. In this episode, Addison breaks down what beginners need to know before bringing a dog into the duck blind. From early obedience and marking to what to expect on a dog’s first hunt, she explains the process in plain language—mistakes included. Adrienne asks the questions many new handlers are afraid to ask, making this a welcoming entry point into hunting with dogs. The conversation also explores mentorship, patience, and how young women can find their place in dog training and conservation. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Finding Confidence, Creativity, and the Outdoors with Priscilla Block | 28 Dec 2025 | 00:39:27 | |
Success doesn’t mean losing who you were or what you love. Country music artist Priscilla Block joins Ascend to talk about confidence, creativity, staying grounded, and how the outdoors plays a role in her life beyond the stage. This episode is about representation, inspiration, and showing younger women what’s possible. Topics include:
Follow Priscilla Block Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| How to Vet Women’s Hunts, Trips, and Outdoor Groups | 14 Dec 2025 | 01:23:53 | |
Not every women’s hunt or retreat is created equal, and some should raise red flags. Erin Crider sits down with Kelly Godfrey of Texas Women Outdoors to walk through how to evaluate women’s hunts, fishing trips, and outdoor events before you book. This episode empowers women to ask better questions, protect themselves, and find safe, legitimate communities. Topics include:
Texas Womens Outdoors, LLC - INSTAGRAM Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Common Deer Hunting Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:55:22 | |
Every hunter makes mistakes; the best ones learn from them. Adrian Jessen is joined by professional angler and hunter Anastasia Patterson to break down the most common mistakes women make while deer hunting, from gear choices to decision-making in the stand. This episode uses humor and honesty to turn mistakes into learning opportunities. Topics include:
Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| From Clay Shooting to Hunting: Building Confidence with a Shotgun | 16 Nov 2025 | 00:57:00 | |
Shooting clays and hunting birds are not the same, and that gap frustrates a lot of women. Julia Stallings is joined by shotgun instructor Brandy Elrod to break down how to transition from the clay target field into real-world hunting with confidence. This episode focuses on gun fit, recoil management, practice strategies, and how proper instruction saves money, time, and frustration. Topics include:
Follow Brandy Elrod Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Raising Kids Outdoors: Conservation Starts at Home | 02 Nov 2025 | 00:54:39 | |
You don’t need big land or big policy to raise conservation-minded kids. Bethany Beathard sits down with Amy Hall to talk about parenting, hunting, and how everyday outdoor moments like fishing trips, predator encounters, and quiet walks shape lifelong values in children. This episode reframes conservation as something personal, accessible, and rooted in family time. Topics include:
Amy's Social Media: HerWildOutdoors (FB) https://www.facebook.com/herwildoutdoorspodcast/ (IG) https://www.instagram.com/herwildoutdoors/?hl=en
The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Duck Migration, Weather, and Realistic Expectations for New Waterfowl Hunters | 19 Oct 2025 | 01:11:29 | |
Why don’t the ducks show up when social media says they should? In this episode, Erin Crider is joined by Ducks Unlimited conservation leader Sarah Fleming to break down how duck migration actually works, and why weather, flyways, and timing matter more than viral hunting clips. This conversation helps new waterfowl hunters set realistic expectations, understand migration science, and approach their first hunts focused on learning rather than limits. Topics include:
WATERFOWL 360 Migration Updates FowlWeather.co - Migration Forecasts Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Handgun Training, Mindset, and Personal Safety for Women | 05 Oct 2025 | 00:53:49 | |
Handgun training isn’t just about the gun; it’s about mindset, responsibility, and awareness. Host Adrian Jessen is joined by firearms educator Beth Alcazar to discuss what women should consider before buying a handgun, how to find the right trainer, and why situational awareness matters as much as equipment. This episode focuses on confidence over fear and preparation over panic, offering grounded guidance for women thinking seriously about personal safety. Topics include:
Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. About the Host: Adrian Jessen The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Training a Hunting Dog While Raising a Family, with Destiny Thomasson | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:47:18 | |
Can you raise a hunting dog without sacrificing your family or your sanity? Bethany Beathard sits down with professional dog trainer Destiny Thomasson of Hund + Soul to talk about training gun dogs in real life. They cover puppy foundations, introducing gunfire safely, managing training with kids at home, and keeping dogs conditioned year-round. This episode is for women who want working dogs and functional family life, without perfection or expensive gear. Topics include:
Destiny's Social Media: Hund + Soul (FB) https://www.facebook.com/share/1GgjxBLFfU/?mibextid=wwXIfr (IG) Instagram Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| You Don’t Have to Grow Up Hunting: Finding Your Way Outdoors | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:48:37 | |
Do you need to grow up hunting to belong outdoors? In this premiere episode, hosts Adrian Jessen, Bethany Beathard, Erin Crider, and Julia Stallings share how they each found their way outside—later in life, through different paths, and without having all the answers. They talk honestly about starting late, learning as adults, building confidence, and why community matters more than credentials. This episode sets the foundation for Ascend: a place where women can learn, ask questions, and grow at their own pace. Subscribe and join this exciting journey to explore, learn, and grow together in the outdoor world. The Ascend Podcast by Ducks Unlimited is Sponsored by: Dry Pocket. Bird Dig Whiskey.
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| Ascend Podcast: Confidence, Skills, and Community for Outdoorswomen | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:00:31 | |
Ascend is a podcast for women who want to feel confident outdoors—whether you’re hunting, fishing, shooting, hiking, or just starting to wonder if you belong there. Hosted by four women with very different paths into the outdoors, each episode explores how to build skills, find mentors, ask better questions, and grow into your own outdoor identity, without gatekeeping or pressure to be perfect. If you’ve ever felt curious, intimidated, or unsure where to start, Ascend is for you. New episodes release biweekly.
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