We welcome Jared Frasier, Executive Director for 2% for Conservation to the podcast to talk about Jared's fall hunt plans, the latest on the 2% for Conservation movement, hunters at the ballot box and more.

During our visit we start diving into orange washing, ballot box initiatives, if hunters really do make a difference in the political arena and more. As a registered not for profit we are not advocating for any specific candidate or party, however it is incumbent upon us to do our due diligence during the elections and more importantly to speak up where our voice needs to be heard.

We talk about how our forefathers were revolutionary in policy making such as Roosevelt, Muir, Pittman, Robertson and more. Can we really affect change in a modern era? Jared and Kyle talk about this issue and why it is more critical then ever before to advocate for wildlife.

Jared discusses his fall plans which involves a guided elk hunt in September. We also visit about 2% for Conservation certification and how it benefits hunters to support the brands that are certified as such.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

In this episode, we sit down with Jim Paul, an Alberta firefighter who lives for the thrill of the hunt. Jim recently returned from a successful mountain goat hunt in the rugged terrain of British Columbia, where he conquered the high peaks to bring down a true trophy. But the excitement didn’t stop there. Jim shares stories of his impressive deer hunting in Alberta, where he’s honed his skills to take down some big bucks. We also dive into the adventure of fly-in backcountry hunts, exploring the unique challenges and rewards of hunting in some of the most remote wilderness areas. Finally, Jim reminisces about moose hunting with his dad, a tradition that has shaped his passion for the outdoors and his love for the hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just love a good story from the wild, this episode is packed with adventure, insight, and the spirit of the hunt.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

We welcome Dylan Forsyth to the podcast to talk hunting, conservation, family and more. Dylan has the distinguished reputation of earning the BC Slam, which includes a Rocky and California Bighorn, Stone and Dall Sheep. Few hunters in BC have done this and even less at a young age.

We dive into hunting regulation changes in British Columbia, Limited Entry Hunting and more. Dylan, while having the reputation of being an accomplished hunter, is also incredibly passionate about conservation and giving back when it comes to wildlife. This is a great talk about wild sheep and sheep hunting in British Columbia.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

We welcome Lee Harrison, Marketing and Creative Lead with Seek Outside to the podcast. Lee talks about his journey in the hunting and outdoor space including his early beginnings growing up in Rifle, Colorado.

We get a chance to discuss Seek Outside's origins and their journey as a company. We touch on some of Lee's favorite products and the most effective scenarios and hunts they can be utilized on.

Lee is a great, yet humble guy and we are confident that you are going to enjoy this chat.

We welcome Travis and Tiffany Bader to episode 102. This husband and wife duo behind Silvercore is a force and it is truly a pleasure to learn about how the company came about, and capture a glimpse into their future. It is fun to hear from Tiffany and her liberal roots and how she articulates her hunting story to a community that typically does not dip its toes in that realm.

Silvercore was founded in 2003 in Delta, BC, and offers a full range of safety and risk mitigation related courses, products and services for private individuals, government agencies and corporate clients across Canada.

In addition to regular online and classroom-based courses, they offer extensive experience in providing maintenance, consultancy, custom training programs, train the trainer courses and marketing services for organizations in the outdoor, education, movie, law enforcement and security sectors.

Travis is a natural behind the microphone as host of Silvercore's podcast - we can assure you that you will enjoy listening to this one.

We welcome guide and modern day mountain woman Rachel Ahtila to the cast to learn what it takes to make it in what once was exclusively a man's domain. A few generations ago you just would not find a young woman leading you on a sheep hunting adventure of a lifetime. Times have changed and Rachel is at the pointy end of that change. As a young girl in her teens she was jumping on a bush plane and venturing into BC's rugged and challenging back country.

Rachel is an incredibly accomplished and seasoned guide having done all the highlights of mountain hunting in the North country. She discusses her passion for the mountain, guide life and what the future may hold. Sit back and relax and enjoy this one - Rachel is always entertaining to speak with and this cast is no exception.

A podcasting first (and Eva confirms it) - we welcome the entire Shockey clan to the show and what a show it is. We told you 100 would be special and thanks to the support of the Shockey family we managed to get all four of them on the podcast at once. We even welcome Nana Weezy (Louise) to the podcast.

Not one of these guests needs an introduction as the Shockey name is one that permeates our community. This is a fun podcast that will have you laughing as, in true Shockey fashion, there is no shortage of teasing. We learn about Eva and Branlin's upbringing and the importance of family. We also talk about the legacy that has been created and what is in store for the next generation of Shockey's.

This is a great listen and one you are sure to enjoy.

Thank you to you, our listeners for your support. Our climb to 100 has been a fun one and we are excited about what the next 100 will bring.

We sit down with retired US Marine David Martinez and talk wild sheep. You will find no one more passion about wild sheep than David and when he gets rolling about Montana's Bighorns and the landscapes they inhabit you can not help but get excited yourself.

He talks about how he got into photography and his why when it comes to wild sheep. David also talks about his bucket list for wild sheep and his photography obsession. And for all you sheep hunters out there he offers sage advice on how to succeed in the mountains.

Check out David Martinez and in these mountains out @inthesemountains. This episode has some language that is not suitable for young children. That said, you are going to love this podcast.

We welcome Utah native and professional wildlife artist Joel Pilcher to the podcast. Born and raised in the Rocky Mountains and has always had a passion for the outdoors and the wildlife that resides there. As a kid, when someone asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, his answer was always a wildlife artist.

Joel's journey includes the construction industry, business world, entrepreneur, graphic designer and now full-time artist. Joel was practically raised on the job site and it's where he learned a lot of skills that have benefited him throughout his life. However, at age 22, Joel reached a point where he had to make the decision whether to chase his dream of becoming an artist.

Joel worked as a graphic designer for two years then went on his own as a freelance designer. He co-founded a few businesses including a marketing firm called Zulu Six, the outdoor supplement company Mtn Ops, and Hoofit Socks. He learned a lot from the failures and successes experienced with each venture. Finally, in 2017, Joel ventured out as a professional artist.

Joel's artwork and connection to the outdoors is incredible and he is always supporting conservation initiatives. Hear what fuels Joel's passion and his passion for wildlife on episode 98 of Talk is Sheep.

Check out Joel at www.joelpilcherart.com @joelpilch

We welcome Ben O'Brien to the podcast to talk about all things hunting. We talk about Ben's early days and the importance of connecting with his father at a young age. Ben dives into his early fascination with hunting and also his interest in writing about those experiences which first led him to the NRA and subsequent opportunities in the media world.

This was an opportunity for us to get a sneak peek into Ben's fall hunting schedule as well as touch on his new platform Woodside.

This is a great visit with a great dude and we are certain you will enjoy it.

To hear more from Ben check him out at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/woodside-with-ben-obrien/id1605817860 and @bennyob301

We sit down with Ol Cal - Ryan Callaghan to talk hunting, conservation and more. Ryan is Director of Conservation @meateater and host of Cal’s Week In Review podcast.

We learn about Cal's upbringing and why being outdoors, wildlife and conservation mean so much to him. He talks about how he got into the guiding scene and his mentors. We learn a thing or two about how to handle bears in the field and he talks about his scariest experience on the mountain.

As expected, this visit with Ryan is entertaining, enlightening and just an honest discussion about hunting, the outdoors and conservation.

Be sure to check Ryan out over at @olcal406 and you can listen to Cal's week in review at www.themeateater.com/listen/cals-week-in-review

You have been asking us for more hunting content, and that's exactly what this episode is.

Greg and Steve again take the lead on this conversation that is a no-BS session where a few guys sit around a virtual campfire and talk hunting.

Elk, deer, and of course sheep come through strong in this episode that we are sure you will enjoy as they welcome WSSBC Life Member Joe Karpinski for a chat about all things hunting.

IG: @joekarpinski74

Find us wherever you podcast, and don't forget to hit that subscribe button.

Very rare on a podcast do the hosts sit back and just listen. This is one such instance where the story was so fascinating, that's all they could do.  

There are tears, there are laughs, and there are shivers down your spine as Steve and Greg take the reins on this episode, simply titled Mauled.

"I picked up my goatee, and put my jaw back in", how 'Baby Shark' kept him going, to his final goodbye letter - be ready to listen for a straight 60 minutes, because once you start, you won't want to stop.

This conversation starts in August 2017.

Jeremy Evans endured multiple ferocious attacks by a protective female grizzly bear while hunting in the Alberta wilderness.

Jeremy’s injuries were massive, his scalp and face destroyed, an eye and his jaw dangling down. The tendons on one leg had been fully severed during the mauling. His hands were damaged where he had physically fought the bear. It was more than a dozen kilometres to where he had parked his truck in darkness early that morning and absolutely no one was near. Thoughts of his wife and their eight-month-old daughter consumed Jeremy as he stumbled and crawled for hours back to his truck, before driving himself several kilometres to a backcountry lodge for help. 

All the while, Jeremy thought of his young family and the upcoming sixth wedding anniversary that he feared he might never be able to celebrate.

Find his book 'Mauled- Lessons Learned From A Grizzly Bear Attack" here.

https://www.amazon.ca/Mauled-Lessons-Learned-Grizzly-Attack/dp/1771604832

We sit down with Weatherby President and CEO Adam Weatherby to talk rifles, sheep hunting, family, legacy and more. Adam is the third generation Weatherby to lead the company, one that started out by his grandfather Roy, as an ammunition manufacturer. Adam, has elevated the company to new heights, relocating from their Southern California origins to Sheridan, Wyoming. They have moved into a state of the art facility and grown to well over 100 employees all in the midst of a global pandemic.

Adam talks about legacy, innovation, family and his work in the Ministry as a youth pastor. We dive into Adam's favorite rifle and caliber, his role as the CEO, the involvement of his wife Brenda plays as Vice-President and the role his kids have played. Adam reflects on his childhood and touches on the succession from the first generation to the second and then how he came to run the company.

We take the opportunity to talk about Adam's favorite hunts and of course dive in to his trip to the Yukon to harvest a magnificent ram. He ended up with a bonus connecting on a big wolf and then in the closing hours of the trip, Brenda was able to harvest the largest Caribou taken in the Yukon for that year.

This is a great visit with a conservation minded individual that values family and community. We touch on the generosity of the Weatherby brand and why supporting conservation is an organizational ethos.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

Kyle welcome Chelsea Hansler to Talk is Sheep to talk about life off the grid, raising kids in the back country, hunting, hounds and hunting retreats for women. Chelsea grew up with hunting in her blood so when the opportunity came to live in a rural environment, she and her family jumped at the opportunity.

Chelsea's day includes looking after her young family, running her hounds, surviving off grid in Northern Ontario, and fostering her passion for art and wildlife. Chelsea is a self-taught artist and her connection with wild places and wild animals is evident through her art work.

Chelsea, through a twist of luck had the fortune to attend a ladies outdoor retreat which inspired her to create her own. Through Whiskey Creek Primal Retreats, she offers opportunities for women to grow, bond and feel more confident in an outdoor environment. Her passion for the program is undeniable.

Check Chelsea's work out on Instagram at @chelseahanslerart

For any women interested in her retreats visit: https://www.whiskeycreekretreats.com

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

Steve and Kyle catch up with T.J., touching base on a variety of topics including his recent hunts, how he achieved his F.N.A.W.S., issues relating to wild sheep including illegal harvest of young rams and the need for more people to get involved in the conservation movement. This podcast is a little emotive at times and we catch T.J. saying that he is going to get some hate mail for some of his statements. However, this is an honest and genuine talk about wild sheep and some of the issues we face.

For T.J. the hunt is as much about the adventure as it is about the pursuit of game and he has hunted around the globe. He is recognized as a mountain-hunting expert and is always in search of unique adventures that challenge both him and his gear. He has hunted six continents and considers himself blessed to have experienced so many cultures.

T.J and his partner Vanessa share a real passion for Africa. They have hunted the Dark Continent eleven times and have not only taken some great animals but also shared their harvest with and brought humanitarian supplies to those less fortunate in some of Africa’s most remote regions. He is, however, still proud to call Canada and all its incredible hunting opportunities home.

We sit down with Wild Sheep Society of BC Director Josh Hamilton and talk about all things wild sheep. Josh is a Director living in Charlie Lake, BC and has been the lead on Northern Burns for the past four years for the Society. Josh is also the Indigenous Relations Chair for WSSBC. He is a husband, father, trapper, conservationist and a passionate hunter.

On this episode we talk to Josh about recent prescribed burns that were completed in the Peace Region at the end of May. This project was lead by the Wild Sheep Society of BC with funding support from Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Wild Sheep Foundation. Josh discusses the many challenges and barriers that were overcome to bring prescribed fire to the North, why he is so passion about prescribed fire and what is in store in the future for the Society with regard to these Northern projects.

Josh has some lofty goals for prescribed fire in the North and is passionate about ensuring wild sheep have the habitat they need to roam. He references 90 sites for prescribed fire in the North over the next five years. There is no question Josh’s dedication and passion for this conservation work.

We welcome Adam Foss to the show. Adam is no stranger to our wild sheep community and it is always enlightening, entertaining and educational chatting with Adam. Adam is not your regular mountain hunter having harvested his FNAWS (Four North American Wild Sheep) at the age of 24 – WITH HIS BOW. You will quickly recognize however that Adam is humble and gracious and cares deeply about conservation and in particular wild sheep and mountain species.

We catch up with Adam and find out what he and his wife Frankie are up to these days. We talk about how Adam is a Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) Ambassador and he is currently promoting a WSF membership raffle.  WSF is sending one lucky winner on an ultimate, fully guided sheep experience to the pinnacle of Dall’s sheep hunting today, the unspoiled wilds of Spectacular Northwest Territories.

Adam will tag along with the winner and capture the entire adventure on film or photography. Additionally, the membership raffle winner will get to choose their outfitter of the eight Association of Mackenzie Mountain Outfitters in the Northwest Territory.

To get in on this great membership promotion more details are available at: https://wildsheep.eventgroovefundraising.com/2022member/Campaign/Details.

It is always a good time when we visit with Adam and this podcast does not disappoint.

Steve and Kyle sit down with University of Victoria Masters Student, Sydney Goward. She is working with Gwich’in communities to study population dynamics of divii (Dall’s Sheep) in the Northern Richardson Mountains of the Gwich’in Settlement Area (Northwest Territories). Sydney holds a Bachelor of Natural Resource Science, Honours, from Thompson Rivers University (2018) and am an RPF (non-practicing) with the Association of BC Forest Professionals. Also a general back country enthusiast, she shares her experiences living and working on Northern and Coastal landscapes, showcasing her photography, and spreading awareness for fish and wildlife conservation issues.

Sydney has been working on the Provincial Thinhorn Sheep Management plan focusing on indigenous perspectives. She is a young and energetic conservationists that we will continue to hear from for years to come

For more details on Sydney’s work visit www.sydneygoward.com/.

A two-time Olympic gold medalist, an Olympic silver medalist, and a four-time X Games Gold Medalist.

And a hunter.

A podcast almost 6 months in the making, Steve and Kyle get an opportunity to catch up with David Wise.

Talking about his family, his hunting heritage, why he chose to come out as a hunter when he risked (and lost!) sponsorships and being a mentor, and why it was important to be true to himself- this conversation is about as authentic as you can get.

David’s perspective on hunting, and his reason for advocating on the hunter’s behalf is an incredible listen that we are sure you will enjoy.

Check out his Instagram at wiseotg

We welcome Wild Sheep Foundation Secretary, 1Campfire Chair and conservation super-hero, Jann Demaske to the podcast. Jann comes from a died in the wool hunting family and although she has officially been kicked out of the <1 Club, Jann does not consider herself a hunter, let alone a sheep hunter.

We talk about Jann's perspective on hunting and why communicating with the non-hunter i sone of the most important things we can do in this modern era. We dive into Jann's many roles she fulfills in a lifetime dedicated to serving the greater good and we even discuss her Colorado Sheep Hunt.

Jann, is truly an individual that has dedicated a disproportionate amount of time serving the greater good and the causes she believes. We even dig into her honey bees and gardening hobbies.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

Kyle and Steve welcome Women Hunt lead Renée Thornton to the show. A three time returnee we catch up on Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt initiative and their many successes to date. We also talk about what is in store for the year ahead and beyond for the program.

Applications are now open for the Women Hunt New Hunter course that will take place this fall in Texas. Twelve new women hunters are chosen to partake in a fantastic week of mentoring, education and fun. Any women interested in learning about this great program and want to get involved visit www.wildsheepfoundation.org/womenhunt. Applications remain open until the end of May.

We also dive into Renée’s plans for hunting this year. You may recall from an earlier episode she talks about predator hunting, why she enjoys it, and how hunters have a role to play in managing the predator ungulate balance in nature. Predator hunting can be an emotive issue and Renée shares her perspective in an articulate and scientific based mind set.

As always it is a pleasure to welcome her to the show and catch up. Enjoy the listen.

Anyone wishing to get more involved in the Women Hunt New Hunter Course, you can apply at: www.wildsheepfoundation.org/womenhunt/apply

While attending the Thinhorn Summit III in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory Kyle and Steve sit down with Wild Sheep Foundation Vice President of Conservation, Mr. Kevin Hurley.

State, provincial, territorial and tribal agencies, conservation stake holder, academia, biologists, First Nations, Guide Outfitters and Wild Sheep Foundation staff meet to discuss the state of thinhorn sheep across North America. Kevin, who is the lead on the Summit talks about issues affecting Stone, Fannin and Dall’s Sheep and some of the strategies being utilized to improve the health of these species.

Kevin has spent years working on wild sheep and he talks about the many things Wild Sheep Foundation is doing to ensure a last legacy for these magnificent animals.

Kyle and Steve sit down and talk wild sheep with Dr. Helen Schwantje. Helen has had her pulse on wild sheep in British Columbia for the past three decades as British Columbia’s Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Provincial Wildlife Veterinary. She also serves on the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Professional Reliance Advisory Board. An award winning Veterinarian you will struggle to find someone more experienced on wild sheep than Helen.

Helen is a consumate professional and well versed in the challenges facing wild sheep on the landscape. She talks about the changes in wild sheep over the decades she has been involved and where she derives her passion for wild sheep.

We guarantee you will learn a thing or two on this cast and without doubt will enjoy Helen’s charismatic and straight talk about wild sheep, conservation and wildlife in general.

Travis T-Bone Turner is the definition of Southern Hospitality.

A genuine nice guy all around, Steve and Kyle were privileged to get an hour of his time on this podcast.

One of the original Bone Collectors, T-Bone has been in the hunting industry for decades.

He has owned his archery business, restored a vintage Mercedes, held the Outdoor 3-D Archery World Champion title, and appeared on numerous television shows and videos, including Realtree’s “Monster Bucks” video series.

This conversation goes from his humble beginnings in an archery shop, to owning his dream property, to his current battle with cancer and losing his leg- this conversation hits all the 10X rings you want to hear about.

Oh. And hear all about his 186” whitetail taken last season, which makes #2 ALL TIME muzzleloader in Georgia, and his dog makes a guest appearance. This is a fun filled episode that will leave you wanting more.

Find us wherever you podcast and check out T-Bone at http://tboneoutdoors.com/ and on social media at Travis T-Bone Turner.

Steve and Kyle chat with Jen Shears (“@smidjen” on Instagram). Jen, a native of Newfoundland and her husband (Kerry) have an energetic daughter named Aspen. Ken has been surrounded by hunting her whole life, and some of her earliest memories are of shooting a .22 from the deck of her family’s cabin. Living sustainably off the land was a foundation of her upbringing, and her mother, father, sister, aunts, uncles and even 89-year old grandmother still get their hunting licences. When Jen and Kerry started dating at the age of 15, the outdoors, hunting, trapping and fishing were a major part of their relationship. It has brought them together, helps keep them together, and they are are instilling their love of all things outdoors in their daughter.

After high school Jen was drawn to Environmental Biology and Ecology. She is a Newfoundland Mi’kmaq (First Nations) woman and is taught that they are protectors and guardians of our great lands, waters and creatures . Thanks to her education and passion for conservation, she spent about 15 years working in National Parks and National Historic Sites, protecting and presenting the incredible natural and cultural heritage of the country.

After Aspen was born Jen left her job to focus on raising her and running their businesses. Kerry is a taxidermist by trade (although he doesn’t do much taxidermy work anymore), they have some accommodations in their tourist town, run a wildlife museum, and have a business called NaturaL boutique, which sells fur items – predominantly harp seal products – such as boots, coats, mitts, hats and accessories. Kerry’s also a semi-pro poker player, and has achieved some great success over the years. 

When they are not busy at all of that, they like to hunt and travel (often at the same time). Recently they have been focusing on North American species (spending A LOT of time on sheep), but they have hunted in South Africa and New Zealand in the past. They enjoy to travel, and as part of our travels they like to take part in the field to table cultural experiences of the areas. 

Random Fact: Jen’s Instagram handle is “smidjen”. Sometimes people ask if it’s because her maiden name is “Smid”, but that’s not the case. It’s because one of my great-grandmother’s most-used words was “smidgen”. If someone offered her a piece of cake or pie, she’d always ask for a smidgen. She passed away when Jen was about 12 years old, but that’s one thing she remembers vividly about her Nanny Hazel. To keep her close Jen made a play on words with “her” word and Jen’s name to form “smidjen” 

There is a pandemic happening amongst wild sheep.

The infectious bacteria known as Mycoplasma Ovipneumoniae (M.Ovi) is a deadly bacteria that is passed from domestic sheep to wild sheep. Enter Dr. Helen Schwantje, the lead wildlife veterinarian for the BC Provincial government and a sheep farmer. Helen is at the forefront of the battle against M.Ovi. Working with a handful of other passionate scientists and volunteers, they’re doing what they can to try and stop the spread of this killer. There is no shortage of struggles…a lack of resources, a lack of public awareness, a lack of proven science, and the biggest foe of all… a lack of time. Kyle and Steve sit down with Jesse Bone, WSSBC Director and Producer of the new film ‘Transmission’ that documents this struggle.

www.movifree.org The premier private screening of this film will be held April 23, 2022 in Prince George BC. For more details visit: www.wildsheepsociety.com/hornagingpg

Kyle and Steve sit down with Randy Newberg and talk sheep, hunting, conservation and what makes Randy tick. Randy is a straight shooter and we dive into a whole number of issues that are impacting hunters and wildlife. As always, Randy provides a candid insightful perspective on many of the things affecting the modern hunter.

We dive into Randy’s upbringing and where his love for the outdoors came from. Randy is the voice of the public land hunter in America . He discusses his decades of chasing all species across public lands has provided both experience and perspective that has allowed Randy to become the leading advocate for the self-guided hunter; hunters dependent upon public lands for hunting access.

Check out Randy’s TV shows, Fresh Tracks and On Your Own Adventures, as well as his the long-standing Hunt Talk web forum. Now added to those platforms is the Hunt Talk Podcast where you get Randy Newberg, unfiltered.

Randy continues to advocate for hunters and public access while representing hunters in Congress and state legislatures. On this episode he dives into where he serves on many hunting and conservation groups. We sure appreciate Randy’s voice for wild sheep.

We sit down with Dr. Ford and talk conservation. He is an Associate Professor of Biology at UBC Okanagan in the Faculty of Science.

Dr. Ford leads the Wildlife Restoration Ecology Lab (WiRE Lab) for UBC-O. Across the Earth, human modification of the environment has never been so widespread as it is today. As a result, many populations of Canada’s most recognizable wildlife – caribou, elk, deer, wolves, bears – are declining. Many of these declines are occurring because people have altered the types of interactions that occur between species: the links in the food chain are broken. To counter these impacts, restoration ecology has emerged as one of the most important disciplines in the life sciences. Restoration also forms the backbone of environmental legislation in Canada. If restoration is to succeed, scientists must develop and translate new knowledge of how people affect the outcome of species interactions.

The Wildlife Restoration Ecology Lab (WiRE Lab) is addressing the impact of human activity on the interactions among large predators (wolves, bears, cougars), their prey (deer, elk), and plants, in human-modified landscapes.We use a combination of field experiments, GPS tracking, computer models, and satellite imagery to bring together the ecology of individuals, populations, and communities. Specifically, we are investigating how forestry practices, urban growth, human-wildlife conflict, and highways not only change species abundance, but the manner in which these species move through the landscape and interact with one another. The WiRE Lab also works at the nexus of research and policy to help inject science into the decision making process.

You will enjoy this candid discussion with Dr. Ford and learn more about the important role academia is playing in modern wildlife management. He also sits on the Province of BC’s Minister’s Wildlife Advisory Committee and the Provincial Hunting and Trapping Advisory Team.

Kyle and Steve welcome Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance Directors and Executives to the pod – Jason Peak and Darryn Epp.  Jason and Darryn have been at the helm of the Alliance for years and this is one conservation moving the needle for wildlife.  We dive into some of the hot topic issues affecting mountain goats, the great work RMGA is doing on and off the mountain and what’s in store for the organization.

Jason and Darryn are great guys and the one thing we took away was that they are joined by a fantastic team they have working to look after the white beasts of the high mountains.

You are going to enjoy hearing what is happening over at the Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance.  Once you have had a listen head over to https://goatalliance.org/ and pick up a membership and some of their cool swag.  For those listening right when we launch this head over to https://goatalliance.org/pages/colorado-license-auction-2022 and support this great cause.  The online auctions runs from March 21-27, 2022.

The ACT NOW 2.0 Supercast. BC’s hunt podcast community sits down for a serious talk about the Provincial Governments recent change relating to Caribou and Moose hunting regulations in Region 7B, the Peace.

On this cast Kyle is invited on to the @Wilderness Locals platform to discuss the issue along with @COME_OUT_HEAVY_PODCAST @CORLANESPORTINGGOODS @EATWILD @FOCUS_HUNTING @TALK_IS_SHEEP_WSSBC @JOURNAL_MTN_HUNTING @MINDFUL_HUNTER and @SILVERCOREINC.

Please hit the links below and take action. You don’t need to be a resident of BC. Anyone can participate and it’s highly encouraged Oppose the regulations: https://apps.nrs.gov.bc.ca/…/close-peace-caribou-hunts… Wilderness Locals Giveaway (you have to do the call to action to enter): www.WildernessLocals.net @wildsheepsocietybc : www.Wildsheepsociety.com/actnow@howl_org : BC Peace – Howl For Wildlife @bcwildlifefederation : https://bcwf.bc.ca/peace-region-hunting-regulations/ WSSBC Talking points (the facts): https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/…/Talking-Points-for…

We welcome Wild Sheep Society Chris Barker to the podcast to talk all things wild sheep. We catch up op on the latest with the Society's projects, initiatives, membership promotions and events.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

Lifelong adventurer, World Class athlete and host of Greg McHale’s Wild Yukon. Winner of the Outdoor Network’s Best New Series for 2019! Whether hiking Mount McKinley or completing a 400 mile solo run from Whitehorse to Dawson City – Greg’s goal is to show that anyone can be their own personal best with drive, determination and commitment. McHale Media is committed to produce the best adventure based hunting show across both digital and linear platforms. Greg’s known for his “DO THE WORK” attitude and daily reminders to his team!

It doesn’t take long for Steve and Kyle to establish that Greg is a fitness machine. The works he has done and his commitment to fitness is unprecedented and involves breaking records achievements. He shares some of his secrets on this podcast and even for the novice athlete gives a ton of insight on how to elevate your fitness for the mountains. Kyle talks to Greg about completing the Power Hunter Program and will be using this for his preseason training this summer.

For more information on Greg and his program visit: https://www.gregmchaleswildyukon.com/

Chef Michael Hunter made headlines in 2018 when he stepped out of the back at Antler Kitchen in Toronto which he co-owns, wearing an apron and wielding the hind leg of a deer and a carving knife. At the front window, he made a makeshift butcher’s table –and slapped the leg down. Then, cool, and methodical- proceeded to cut it up right in front of the dozen or so vegan activists protesting outside.

Steve and Kyle get a chance to sit down with him and have a great conversation about everything from his beginnings as a hunter, what Flipper pie is, and the vegan protest controversy.

Hit that follow button, and leave us a review if you’ve got a few minutes.

https://thehunterchef.com/

We sit down with Jules McQueen, President of Carbon TV. Jules is a dedicated hunter, passionate, articulate and leads a team at Carbon that is the premier online video destination for premium outdoor themed shows and engaging personalities. Immediately you will recognize that Jules is the real deal as we dive into what makes her tick, her humble Alabama beginnings and her zest for all things outdoors.

And yes, there may have been a ping pong match break out during the show – listen and you will see what we mean.

Jules is incredibly passionate, dedicated and accomplished hunter despite not really being exposed to it at a young age. She talks about catching the bug and devoting herself to hunting including the early successes she enjoyed on her first hunt. She also dives into the hard knocks and how she grew from them. And of course we discuss her favorite hunts and those on her bucket list.

We also talk about the not for profits she supports and her conservation efforts during our visit.

Jules is possibly the most positive person you will ever meet. Sit back, relax and enjoy this convo with Jules – you are going to enjoy it.

Throughout his youth and young adulthood, Wayne Sawchuk struggled with the disparity between life as a logging contractor and the call of the wild. In the early 1990s, he decided to devote his life to conserving nature and her vast resources. He first started by working to protect the Mountain Creek Valley south of Dawson Creek, now protected by the Pine-Lemoray Provincial Park. As he became aware of the theory of Conservation Biology he began to work to protect B.C’s Northern Rockies. The result – protection of the largest working wilderness in British Columbia, the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area.

Wayne remains vigilant in ensuring that these models continue to be sustainable. He believes that the framework he uses is adaptable to any environment on Earth, and is available to assist others in applying the theory to their backyards. He promotes the Muskwa-Kechika through the media, speaking engagements, consultation and mediation, as well as his ongoing work to document the land.

Wayne Sawchuk is driven by a vision of humanity co-existing peacefully and prosperously with nature. While his ideal world may sound utopian, Wayne is very much a realist. He knows what it takes to bring government, industry and other stakeholders to the table, uncover mutual interests and agree upon actions that maximize benefits for all – including the environment.

Kyle and Steve dive into Wayne’s early days, his time on the landscape and modern issues that the conservation community faces including habitat loss, predator management and the constant struggle of balancing biodiversity and industrial interests.

Wayne remains active on a number of boards and committees, including CPAWS BC, the CPAWS National Board, and the four northeastern BC Land Use Plans. He continues to explore the MK area, leading the annual summer expedition, writing, photographing, and publishing his ideas and experiences, giving us a chance to glimpse life through his eyes. This is a great listen to gain perspective from a man that has spent his entire life on the landscape and the struggles modern day conservationists face.

Kyle and Steve get a chance to sit down with one heck of a busy woman in Jessie Krebs. If you think you have an idea of tough in the back country is, you gotta listen to this episode.

Jessie Krebs is a former U.S. Air Force SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape.) Training Instructor from the old school days when instructors were simply called “Survival Instructors”. As one of a handful of women in the male dominated S.E.R.E. career field, Jessie outsmarted and out-toughed many of her male counterparts in the Air Force to make it through the intense S.E.R.E. training program (class 91-02) and earn her right to a coveted position as an Air Force SERE Specialist.

Oh. Toss in that she is one of only a handful of modern human beings ever to complete a primitive crossing of hundreds of miles of Tanzanian Serengeti on FOOT!

This is one episode that you will not want to miss as they dive deep into her career in the Air Force, as well as her time on TV and what that really looks like, as well as what is coming up in the future for her as she begins her own venture of the O.W.L program.

Hit that subscribe button and leave us a review, and thanks for the support!

https://www.owlsskills.com/

Mike Bridger has been a friend of the WSSBC as long as we can remember. Steve and Kyle finally get to sit down with him and catch up on how things are going in his life, and the state of wildlife in British Columbia.

Mike’s position as a Wildlife Biologist currently working on Northeast Resource Management and Major Projects has taken him around the province of British Columbia, so he has more than a firm grasp on some of the issues we are facing holistically when it comes to wildlife and habitat. They dig into sheep, habitat and of course the ever-controversial caribou recovery program- and the resulting wolf reduction. There is also an update on the illegal sheep that have been harvested in BC in 2021 – a particularly bad year.

This is a great episode that should bring to light a bit of clarity on where we were, and how we move forward to do what is truly best for wildlife and habitat in B.C Don’t forget to hit that follow button wherever you podcast, and thanks for listening.

Kyle and Steve sit down with Jim Shockey. Jim has spent the past four decades in the hunting space and he has watched hunting evolve in the eyes of the non-hunting community. We learn about Jim’s humble beginnings growing up in Saskatchewan to how he became a main stay of the modern hunting story. Would you believe that Ralph Lauren played a role in that?

We talk to Jim about today’s woke culture and how he has seen the other side of the “pendulum.” He speaks of some of the challenges we are experiencing today as hunters, particularly with regard to our social licence. Jim also speaks to what we can do as hunters to help with that image and how social media is a powerful tool for the good and the bad.

This is a positive and encouraging talk with Jim and a podcast you won’t want to miss.

We sit down with PhD Student Siobhan Darlington and talk wildlife conservation. Siobhan is currently completing her PhD at University of British Columbia Okanagan and is the lead on the Southern BC Cougar Project. She shares with us the work she conducted on her Masters where she was involved with the Alberta Boreal Deer project. This study touch on conservation concerns around whitetail deer, habitat disturbances and the influence of predators.

Siobhan dives into her current project and gives us an overview of cougar-prey dynamics and response to wildfire and human disturbances in southern British Columbia. She is incredibly passionate and knowledgable about the role cougars play in the ecosystem and the impact humans are having on them and the impact cougars are having on ungulate populations.

For more on Siobhan’s work you can follow her at https://siobhandarlington.weebly.com/ and if you have an experience with a big cat she would love to hear from you at bccougarproject@gmail.com

Kyle and Steve sit down with Dr. Clayton Lamb to talk conservation. Our subject ranges from endangered caribou to Bighorn Sheep mortality in the Kootenay region of British Columbia.

Clayton is a wildlife scientist at the University of British Columbia and University of Montana working with First Nations, governments, scientists, and land stewards on Indigenous-led caribou conservation. He also focuses on wildlife connectivity and road ecology across western North America. To say that we have an expert on the cast when it comes to Bighorn collisions in the Radium area would be a gross understatement.

He works at the interface of population ecology, human-wildlife coexistence, and wildlife management. Clayton’s work provides rigorous and insightful evidence that informs wildlife management, theoretical population ecology and maximizes conservation gains for wildlife, wild places, and local land stewards.

In the past 10 years 200 Bighorn sheep have died in a very narrow section of highway near Radium due to collisions with vehicles. Is it time to actually do something meaningful for wild sheep or should we just fall back on the hunting regulation discussion to recover these herds? You tell us.

This is one for the books – from TV Celebrity to Taxidermist to Social Media Influencer to Hunter there is not much that Laura Zerra has not done. Having starred in Naked and Afraid FIVE times, Laura is not stranger to the camera. The day before our podcast she did an Instagram Story of how to skin a road killed deer that her and her friend came across. Laura is possibly the most interesting guest we have had on the show and she had Steve and Kyle in stitches for most of it. That said, Laura is a bad ass survivalist and know what it takes to keep alive in the back country. From her formative years she was discovering what it takes to be alone and succeed in the wild and she imparted many of her life lessons of surviving in the backcountry.

This is one show we are confident you will enjoy, get a few good laughs and definitely learn a few survival strategies.

We welcome Grand Slam Club Ovis's Executive Director, Jason Price to the podcast to talk hunting, conservation and more. Jason, an incredibly accomplished hunter by his own right, talks about the important role Grand Slam Club Ovis plays in the hunting community. He discusses the GSCO lists and the benefits they bring to the species that those lists hold.

Jason, dives into his personal journey to GSCO and how his time on "The Experience" made for a natural fit. We discuss the new agreement inked with Safari Club International, what the future holds for Grand Slam and even dive into some of Jason's plans for his next hunt.

Talk is Sheep is brought to you by our Title Sponsor, MTNTOUGH Fitness Labs.

We partnered with MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab to help get you in shape and mentally stronger. Whether you are a veteran hunter or just starting, the MTNTOUGH app will take you to the next level. We've personally trained using the MTNTOUGH programs and we believe in it so much that we want to give you 6 weeks for free using code: SHEEPBC. Visit: http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=sheepbc&plan=monthly

Talk is Sheep is the Official Podcast of the Wild Sheep Society of BC. The official sponsor of the Wild Sheep Society of BC is SITKA Gear and our Conservation Partners - Frontiersmen Gear, Gunwerks, OnX Maps, Precision Optics, Schnee's, Stone Glacier, Wild TV, YETI and Zeiss.

Kyle and Steve welcome author Sue Tidwell to the podcast.

This is a fascinating listen, as they dive deep into her story. We are sure it will grab you too.

Tidwell, a non-hunter deeply troubled by the concept of hunting some of Africa’s most exotic wildlife, finds herself a reluctant sidekick on an epic 21-day hunting safari. Largely through a close friendship developed during the course of the safari with a young female game scout named Lilian, her eyes were opened to the complex and multi-faced issues of African wildlife conservation and the rural people of Africa. An adventure. An awakening. A journey to understanding African wildlife conservation.

Find her book “Cries of the Savanna” on Amazon, or on her website www.suetidwell.com

We welcome Jana Waller to the show. We wanted to talking hunting and conservation and she did not disappoint. We recap Jana’s hunting journey and how she landed her own hunting show AND how she ended up being appointed by Montana’s Governor as Region 2 Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commissioner.

One thing we learned – Jana can hunt and she has done more this past season than most do in a lifetime. But, she has a strong conservation ethic and focus on improving for wildlife. We talk about her busy season and discuss her most recent accomplishment of taking a Bighorn Sheep from the State she now calls home.

Jana, is a blast to have on the cast and we promise you that you will not be disappointed. She is the star of her own show Skull Bound Chronicles on Carbon TV. Be sure to check it out at www.carbontv.com/shows/skull-bound-chronicles/

We welcome Keith Balfourd, Manager of Marketing and Communications with the Wild Sheep Foundation back to the show. We wanted to hear it from the source what was happening with Sheep Show this year. We discuss the new hybrid show which is a mixture of the in-person event and the virtual or online platform. Keith talks about the multitude of hunts up for grabs throughout the week long event including the Sierra El Alamo Desert Sheep Hunt they are giving away to one lucky person just for signing up for the show.

We discuss why Sheep Show is the go to event of the year and why people are drawn to this show over the many others. We also dive into some of the challenges the Wild Sheep Foundation is facing and the many successes they have enjoyed in the past year.

As always we talk to Keith about his fall hunting plans and the sheep hunts that he has been on. We also find out what Keith’s dream hunt is and where he would be headed hunting given the opportunity.

If you haven’t registered for Sheep Week, get signed up today and you will automatically be entered to win a Mexico Desert Sheep Hunt. Head over to  Wild Sheep Foundation and get registered now!

On this episode we welcome Nature Trust of BC’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jasper Lament to the show. We learn about the great work that BC’s largest provincial land trust is conducting and how they are preserving wild places for all wildlife. Dr. Lament talks about his personal journey to lead this great organization, how the Nature Trust of BC began and the many exciting acquisitions that they have made in this, their fiftieth anniversary. The Wild Sheep Society of BC has been fortunate to be invited to participate in two different land acquisitions with the Nature Trust of BC that benefit wild sheep and look forward to new opportunities to work with them.

For more details on the great work the Nature Trust of BC is conducting visit www.naturetrust.bc.ca

Are you ready for an epic sheep tale? WSSBC Treasurer Joe Humphries delivers in spades on this two hour episode of highs and lows – everything you would expect on a sheep hunt.

Joe talks about his successes and failures, the highs and low and lastly about being kicked out of the <1 Club. This story talks about one mans solo journey and how he was successful in anchoring his first sheep.

Not only does Joe tell a mean sheep hunting tale, he also talks about what conservation means to him. He has been instrumental in the Wild Sheep Society of BC serving as Treasurer for several year. Joe’s name has been on close to 1 million dollars in raffle applications on behalf of the Society. Saying that Joe has been pivotal in WSSBC’s conservation fundraising efforts is a gross understatement.

Sit back, grab a cold one and enjoy Joe’s journey as he tells a spirited story about being kicked out of the <1 Club. Joe, thank you for all you do to support wild sheep conservation in BC.

For more details and to join the Wild Sheep Foundation’s <1 Club visit www.wildsheepfoundation.org/memberships/less-1-club

We sit down with Secretary Nick Negrini and Vice-President Tyler Donahue from the Midwest Chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation. We talk about the origins of their organization, the great work they are doing for wild sheep despite there being none in the great state of Minnesota as well as the fall plans Tyler and Nick had.

Midwest has been an important supporter of the Wild Sheep Society of BC’s Fraser River Bighorn project having supported it from its infancy. We jump into other projects Midwest throws their support behind and why they do it.

Please note that due to some audio complications the quality of this podcast is not up to our usual standard. We ask for your understanding and apologize for the lower quality on this recording.

Steve and Kyle welcome Dr. Ian Baird to the show. Ian has a resume a mile long when it comes to wild sheep conservation. He is the Treasurer of the Abbotsford Fish and Game Club and was instrumental in forging a partnership with the Wild Sheep Society of BC. Through WSSBC's Community Conservation Partnership, Abbotsford Fish and Game commitment will result in our two organization putting $40,000 back into wild sheep projects in BC.

We have reached out to our members and the public to match this commitment which will result in $60,000 going to support wild sheep projects.

During the show we talk about Ian's fall hunts, the history of Abbotsford Fish and Game and what the future holds for the organization.

To support this conservation movement, WSSBC is seeking a match from our supporters during the month of November.

Are you interested in turning $1 in to $3 for Fraser River Bighorn Sheep?

The Wild Sheep Society of BC is proud to partner with the Abbotsford Fish and Game Club. Earlier this year, Abbotsford Fish and Game signed in to support the Wild Sheep Society of BC in restoring Bighorn Sheep on the Fraser River. In this agreement, WSSBC has asked their members and members of the public to step up in support.

For every dollar that you contribute, it will be matched by Abbotsford Fish and Game and WSSBC up to $20,000. What that means is a $1 donation for wild sheep means that an additional $2 will go on the ground. This is a fantastic opportunity to support the Fraser River Bighorns and help leave a legacy that future generations will enjoy.

Are you interested in helping out? Contributions for this project above $500 are Monarch eligible for any one wishing to participate in our Monarch Membership program. Plus again, for every $1 you contribute you will be effectively putting $3 forward for wild sheep. There has never been a better time to support wild sheep conservation.

Make a difference today. For more information on how to participate or to contribute to this project contact Michael Surbey at exec@wildsheepsociety.com.