Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Madcore Hunter Podcast

In this episode, we explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of hunting with mules. Our guest, Dave Helton, has been using mules in the backcountry for over 20 years and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and stories to the conversation.

Dave walks us through what makes mules such valuable partners in the field, especially in rugged and remote terrain where horses or ATVs might fall short. He shares what to look for in a quality mule, common mistakes first-time buyers make, and the kind of commitment mule ownership requires—not just during hunting season, but year-round.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to expand your approach or someone curious about incorporating mules into your outdoor lifestyle, this episode offers practical tips, personal insights, and a look into the strong bond that can form between hunter and mule.

In this episode, Danny rejoins us for a wide-ranging discussion on gear, comfort, and reliability in the outdoors. We kick things off with some talk about eBikes and mules—two very different, unique modes of transportation—and how each plays a role in today's hunting and wilderness travel.

From there, we dive into the main topic: finding the right boot for your needs. We cover everything from brand recommendations and models that have stood the test of time, to personal experiences that have shaped our preferences. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, hiker, or just getting started, there's a lot to consider when it comes to selecting a solid pair of boots.

We talk about key factors like fit, purpose, terrain, and the inevitable break-in period. Even with a high-quality, well-reviewed boot, the difference between good and great often comes down to the small things—like proper insoles, socks, and boot care routines. These small adjustments can have a major impact on performance and long-term comfort.

Tune in for honest opinions, lessons learned, and practical advice to help you avoid common mistakes and make sure your feet are taken care of—mile after mile.

In this episode, we’re joined by longtime friend Reid Strobl. We dive into Reid’s journey as a hunter and how those experiences have helped shape him into the man he is today. Over the years, Reid has not only grown in his skills and knowledge of the outdoors but also in his faith. He now shares that faith with others through archery, mentorship, and hospitality.

Our conversation covers a wide range of topics—from hunting and fishing to chasing whitetails and life lessons learned in the woods. Reid brings a wealth of outdoor experience to the table, and no matter where you are in your own journey, there’s something valuable to take away from this episode

In this episode, we dive into Danny’s journey through multiple heart surgeries and the many obstacles he’s had to overcome. He shares how hunting has been a powerful source of motivation—pushing him to recover, get back outside, and keep moving forward.

Danny’s passion for hunting has taken him to incredible places, both physically and mentally. In many ways, it’s what keeps his heart beating strong.

Whether you're facing health challenges of your own or just need a reminder to make the most of the time God has given you, this episode is deeply inspiring. It’s a true testament to Danny’s determination, resilience, and love for the hunt.

In this episode, Danny and Zach dive deeper into their hunting adventures, sharing stories from their latest mountain hunts and reflecting on their past successes together.

These two veteran hunters bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and camaraderie to the table, making every conversation both insightful and entertaining. From tracking game in rugged terrain to the lessons learned through years in the wilderness, they open up about what it really takes to be successful in the field.

Expect great storytelling, laughs, and a few surprising moments as Danny and Zach relive their most memorable hunts. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just love a good story, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we take a deep dive with Michael, Danny, and Eli into the world of arrow building. We discuss why the fine details matter and just how far you can take the process of building one perfect arrow.

Whether you shoot a couple of times a year or every day, this episode is packed with valuable information. Even if you don’t build your own arrows, we cover the right questions to ask at your local pro shop or online store—tips that might just give you the edge you're looking for this fall.

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Michael Obendorf back to the podcast. Michael is well-known for his deep expertise in archery gear, especially when it comes to setting up bows for peak performance. Each year, he takes on the task of setting up multiple bows, constantly experimenting and fine-tuning to push the limits of what his equipment can do.During our conversation, Michael shares his insights and advice with Danny, walking through his approach to selecting the right arrows, dialing in bow tuning, and optimizing performance across the board. Whether you're a seasoned archer or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable tips and practical knowledge that can help take your setup to the next level.

In this episode, we dive into Eli’s latest experience at the Total Archery Challenge in Pennsylvania. We break down what makes these events so valuable for archers of all levels, highlighting what to look for if you're planning to attend one. Eli also shares insights into some exciting new products he came across, the standout vendors at the event, and a few of the big names in the archery world who made an appearance. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting started, there's something in this episode for you.

In this episode, we introduce a long-time member of Madcore, Rob Drake. Rob has been hunting with fellow Madcore members for years and brings a wealth of experience to the table. He shares a variety of stories and hunting strategies, including his recent food plotting efforts in Illinois and the new approaches he's taking to become more successful in all aspects of hunting.

In this episode, Danny is joined by a very special guest—his cousin Zach. Over the years, Zach has proven himself to be a highly successful elk hunter, and many of his biggest accomplishments in the field have come with Danny right there beside him. Together, they’ve built a strong hunting partnership, taking down some truly impressive bulls.

This episode marks the beginning of their shared story on the podcast, diving into how their bond as cousins turned into a powerful hunting duo. From early lessons learned in the backcountry to the thrilling moments of tracking and harvesting massive elk, Danny and Zach recount the adventures, challenges, and strategies that have shaped their hunts—and their friendship. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, you won’t want to miss the stories and insights that kick off this exciting journey.

In this episode, Danny and Eli dive deep into the world of archery as they share a detailed breakdown of their latest gear and the valuable lessons they've learned throughout the bow setup process. From choosing the right components to fine-tuning their equipment, they offer insights that both beginners and seasoned archers will appreciate. While the cost of a quality bow can be significant on its own, it's often the accessories—such as sights, stabilizers, rests, and releases—that truly drive up the overall investment. That's why it's crucial to not only understand what each piece of equipment does, but also why it's worth including in your setup. If you're going to spend your hard-earned money, you need to make informed decisions that match your goals, skill level, and shooting style. Whether you're building your first bow or upgrading your current rig, this episode will help you make smarter, more strategic choices.

In this episode, we dive into the training and preparation Danny and Eli are putting in as they get ready for their elk hunt in the mountains this September. This isn’t just a weekend getaway—it's a physically and mentally demanding pursuit that requires months of planning, discipline, and hard work. We’ll take a closer look at the specific training Eli has been doing, the goals he’s set for himself, and how he stays motivated during the off-season when the mountain still feels far away.

Whether you're prepping for a high-altitude backcountry hunt, training for an Ironman, or just rucking with your family on the weekends, the common thread is preparation. The mountain doesn’t care how experienced you are—it rewards those who put in the work. This episode is all about what it takes to be ready when September comes, from cardio and strength work to mindset and gear. If you're aiming to be at your best when the bugle calls echo through the mountains, this one's for you.

In this episode, we dive into the highs and lows of this year’s turkey season, reflecting on the challenges that come with balancing a busy life and finding the time to get out into the woods. From unpredictable work schedules to family obligations, we talk about how real life can sometimes get in the way of our hunting plans—and why the time we do get outdoors is more meaningful because of it.

We'll also hear about Dannie's recent adventures in paddle fishing, including the excitement, the frustrations, and what makes the experience so unique. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just curious about this unusual type of fishing, you won’t want to miss his stories.

And of course, no turkey season recap would be complete without a conversation about food. We'll wrap things up by sharing our favorite ways to clean, cook, and enjoy wild turkey—from traditional recipes to a few creative twists we’ve tried over the years.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the 2025 hunting season—what it takes to prepare, how we plan, and the countless hours of behind-the-scenes work that go into each and every hunt. Hunting across multiple states and pursuing a variety of species isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle that requires dedication, organization, and a true passion for the outdoors. Balancing the demands of a busy work life with the desire to chase adventure in the wild can be a real challenge, but it’s one we embrace wholeheartedly.

We’ll share the strategies we use to make it all work, from scouting and scheduling to gear prep and travel logistics. It’s not always easy, but the experiences we gain and the memories we create make it all worth it. We feel incredibly fortunate to have these opportunities and hope that by sharing our journey, we can inspire others to broaden their own outdoor experiences and maybe even chase a few new adventures themselves.

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the podcast! This time around, we're thrilled to be joined by Michael Obendorf, a man that has dedicated much of his time to establishing productive food plots and implementing effective whitetail management strategies. Situated in the prime whitetail country of Illinois, Michael has a firsthand understanding of what it takes to cultivate thriving deer populations and maximize hunting opportunities. So, tune in as we tap into Michael's practical wisdom, specifically focusing on the essential tasks and considerations for this spring that will lay the groundwork for a successful pursuit this fall. You won't want to miss these actionable tips to get ahead of the game!"

In this episode, we dive into the unforgettable elk hunt that Eli and Dave embarked on in the rugged wilderness of Utah. Starting their journey all the way from Indiana, they loaded up their mules and headed west.

Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at the entire adventure — from the long road trip to the challenges of navigating the high, rocky mountains of Utah. Eli and Dave reflect on the experience, sharing what made this hunt so special and how truly blessed they felt throughout the journey.

They talk about the trials, the lessons, and the memories built over the years that ultimately led to this incredible and rewarding hunt. It’s a story of perseverance, passion, and the deep bond between hunters and the wild places they love.

In this episode, we’ll dive into Michael and Danny's 2024 Wyoming elk hunt, a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable moments. This hunt marked a special milestone for Michael, as it was his first bull taken with a bow. Join us as Michael reflects on the years of hard work, trials, and lessons learned that led up to this incredible achievement. From the highs of the hunt itself to the unforgettable experience of the pack-out, this story is one you won’t want to miss."

In this episode, we explore Eli's hunting experiences and his background in the hunting world. Listen to find out more about the unforgettable hunting trips and experiences that Eli is so fortunate to have had. We dive into how both his successes and failures have shaped and defined him as a hunter, offering insights into the lessons learned along the way. This episode's mission is to educate, inspire, and help others who are eager to experience God's beautiful creation and the world of hunting.

In this episode, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the origins of the Madcore Hunter name and what it truly stands for. We’ll dive deep into the drive and passion that fuels our love for the outdoors, as well as the mindset that defines the Madcore Hunter brand. Danny will share his personal story—his experiences, struggles, and triumphs—that led him to this point. Together, we’ll discuss the mission behind this podcast and the goals we have for this growing community. Our aim is to inspire, inform, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts who share the same relentless passion for adventure and exploration. Tune in to learn more about what motivates us and how we hope to impact the outdoor world through this podcast and brand.

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