Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Wild Pursuits

Ethan Rusk knew about Cross Trail Outfitters for a couple of years before he ever got involved. He just wasn't interested initially. But when life took a hard turn and he found himself navigating some dark waters, God had other plans. One Sunday morning Ethan walked up to a man at church, offered his fishing boat and a willing heart, and had his application filled out by that night. In this episode, Kirk sits down with Ethan, a firefighter from Seminole, Oklahoma, who shares how CTO became the brotherhood and Christ-centered community he didn't even know he needed.

From volunteering as a guide to running 12 events in a single year and stepping into the role of Seminole Chapter Outfitter, Ethan's story is Christ at work from start to finish. He shares an unforgettable story from hog camp where a last-minute addition to the roster became the first boy that week to say he needed Jesus, setting off a chain of four baptisms, two salvations, and a rededication all in a matter of hours at the lake. That boy now attends church with his grandpa, and it all started because Ethan said yes when it would have been easier to say no.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

Step into the world of Wild Pursuits, where faith meets the great outdoors. In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Warren from Wyoming, who shares his transformative journey at the national calling camp with Cross Trail Outfitters. Nathan's story is one of passion and purpose, as he discusses the vital role of mentoring young men through outdoor adventures. Discover how his experiences align with CTO's mission to guide the next generation to Christ through the outdoors. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or exploring new paths, Nathan's insights offer inspiration and guidance. Embrace the adventure and join us in nurturing a legacy of faith, family, and stewardship.

To support our mission or get involved, visit ⁠teamcto.org⁠.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we explore the profound sense of calling that drives the mission of Cross Trail Outfitters. Join us as Mike Johnson, the North Carolina State Director and National Director of CTO, shares his personal journey of discovering a calling to guide young men to Christ through the outdoors. From leading impactful calling camps to witnessing life-changing moments around the campfire, Mike's story is a testament to the power of answering a higher call. Whether you're seeking your own path or inspired by stories of faith and mentorship, this episode highlights the transformative impact of embracing one's calling in the great outdoors.

Mike delves into the unique experiences that have shaped his journey, including the challenges and triumphs of leading a ministry dedicated to nurturing the next generation. Through heartfelt anecdotes and powerful testimonies, listeners will gain insight into the importance of mentorship and the role it plays in shaping young lives.

To support our mission or get involved, visit ⁠teamcto.org⁠.

From chasing doves to campfire devotions, the Cain family has experienced the full adventure of life with Cross Trail Outfitters. In this episode of Wild Pursuits, Kirk joins Chris and Kelsey Cain and their kids for a conversation about how the outdoors has become the heartbeat of their family life and a place where faith continues to grow. What began as a simple search for hunting opportunities has turned into a calling to lead the Northside Chapter and disciple the next generation.

Along the way, the Cains reflect on the joy of serving together, the lessons learned through community, and the ways God has shown up in both ordinary and extraordinary moments. Each of their children also shares a favorite “there I was” story filled with first deer hunts, baptisms, and camp memories that capture the spirit of CTO.

To support our mission or get involved, visit ⁠teamcto.org⁠.

In this episode, Kirk sits down with Danny Little, CEO of Redneck Blinds, to talk about faith, leadership, and legacy. Danny shares how God redirected his path from banking into building one of the most recognized hunting blind companies in the country, and how each blind has become more than a product—it’s a place for families to connect, youth to discover the outdoors, and conversations about Christ to begin.

From providing comfort in the field to stepping up during disasters, Danny’s story shows what happens when business becomes ministry. Hear how his team built and delivered 76 emergency cabins after Hurricane Helene, why servant leadership matters, and how living with a giving heart can transform not only a company but entire communities.

To support our mission or get involved, visit ⁠teamcto.org⁠.

When Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina, the Harrington Family stepped forward in faith. Volunteering with Cross Trail Outfitters and Redneck Blinds, they helped coordinate the delivery of 76 Redneck insulated cabins to families who had lost everything. From unloading trucks in the snow to guiding cabins through the woods, the Harringtons share stories of prayer, perseverance, and God’s provision in the darkest of times.

In this heartfelt conversation, the Harringtons open up about how the storm tested their faith, revealed the strength of their community, and gave them a new perspective on service. From moments of survivor’s guilt to the joy of seeing neighbors come together, their testimony shows how God can bring hope out of heartbreak and turn a tragedy into a story of love, unity, and resilience.

To support our mission or get involved, visit ⁠teamcto.org⁠.

When you invest in kids’ lives, you never know how far the impact will reach. Jerry Vann from the Pungo River chapter in North Carolina joins Kirk to talk about his journey from guide to outfitter with Cross Trail Outfitters. Along the way, he recalls the hunts, the laughter, and the long-term connections that keep him going. This conversation is about more than hunting and fishing — it’s about building relationships that last a lifetime.

Jerry also shares how his family, his team, and even a few memorable kids have shaped his years in ministry. From kayaking races to unexpected hot dog toppings, his stories reveal the heart of what makes Cross Trail Outfitters unique: lasting bonds, spiritual growth, and the joy of seeing young people step into adulthood with a firm foundation of faith. Whether you are an active volunteer or simply curious about how to get involved, Jerry’s perspective offers encouragement and a reminder that every skill, every bit of time, and every prayer matters.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this captivating episode, Dr. Jimmy Sites, host of Spiritual Outdoor Adventures, joins Kirk for a late-night conversation in the mountains of West Virginia. From the origins of his powerful new book Decoys of Deception to stories from his global ministry, Jimmy shares how Satan’s strategies mirror hunting tactics and why awareness is our first defense against spiritual deception.

Kirk and Jimmy discuss the spiritual war happening around us, the importance of boldness in faith, and how personal connection, whether around a campfire or through a story, can break down walls and open hearts. With decades of ministry and media experience, Jimmy unpacks how storytelling can lead people from entertainment to transformation.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just seeking truth in a noisy world, this episode offers insight, conviction, and hope.

Get a copy of Decoys of Deception by Dr. Jimmy Sites: https://www.biblestudybasecamp.com/product-page/decoys-of-deception

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

What happens when a worship leader with a heart for the outdoors steps into full-time ministry with Cross Trail Outfitters? Brian Brunker shares his journey from music minister to CTO outfitter, revealing how a simple meeting at church turned into a life of deeper purpose and discipleship.

This conversation explores the challenges and rewards of guiding boys through hunting, fishing, and faith. Brian opens up about leading worship around campfires, raising his own children through CTO, and learning to pause and listen for God’s voice in the stillness.

Recorded at the CTO National Family Retreat in West Virginia, this is a story about following God’s quiet nudges, letting go of control, and discovering just how much can happen around a campfire.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

What does it look like when your entire life pivots on a single unexpected wilderness moment? In this episode, we head deep into the heart of Alaska with Luke Schmidt, CTO’s first outfitter in the Last Frontier, and his wife Danae. Their story is not just about hunting grizzlies or launching CTO’s first Alaska summer camp. It is about calling, grit, and how God uses the wilderness to shape men for something bigger. Luke opens up about the path that brought him north, the kids who changed his life, and the moments around the fire that matter more than any trophy. Danae brings a quiet but powerful perspective on what it means to support a mission from behind the scenes. This is one of our rawest conversations yet. It is not just about ministry. It is about becoming who you are made to be.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this powerful conclusion to our Alaska Bear Camp series, we go beyond the hunt and deeper into the heart of what makes CTO camps so transformational. You’ll hear the story of “the bear that got away”—a massive 8-foot grizzly that left everyone wide-eyed—and what it taught one young hunter about patience, courage, and faith.

We also hear from boys who share how God moved during campfire devotions, quiet times on the glacier, and unforgettable moments with their CTO brothers. From roasting hot dogs to wrestling with God’s voice in the Alaskan wilderness, this episode captures the raw beauty of a week where young men grew in their relationship with Christ.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this unforgettable two-part series, we take you deep into the Alaskan wilderness with seven boys who made history at the first-ever Cross Trail Outfitters Alaska Bear Camp. In Part 1, you’ll hear firsthand stories from the young hunters themselves—heart-pounding moments, sleepless nights, and encounters with black and grizzly bears that they’ll never forget.

Kirk and Alaska Outfitter Luke Schmidt kick off the episode with powerful reflections on calling, camp ministry, and what it takes to chase grizzlies in rugged terrain. From bear stands and glacier hikes to witnessing answered prayers and forging brotherhood in the wild, this episode is packed with raw adventure, God’s providence, and the unshakable bond between faith and the outdoors.

Come back next week for part 2!

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, Kirk is joined by Texas State Director Casey Allen and a group of boys attending CTO Texas Ram Camp. Together, they swap “So There I Was” stories—some hilarious, some intense, and many deeply moving. From chasing rams across the ranch to quiet moments in deer stands, each story reveals how God shows up in the midst of adventure.

You’ll also hear how campfire conversations lead to real spiritual breakthroughs: decisions to follow Christ, rededications, and the power of brotherhood rooted in faith. It’s a glimpse into the heart of CTO summer camps, where hunting and discipleship go hand in hand and where young men are equipped to grow in both grit and grace.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode, Kirk heads to B-Tex Ranch in Texas to meet Victor and Rhonda Bretting, landowners who have turned their property into more than just a hunting lodge. From hosting CTO ram camp to preparing home-cooked meals for dozens of boys, the Brettings have built a place where outdoor adventures and spiritual transformation go hand in hand. They share how a brochure at a local expo unexpectedly connected them to Cross Trail Outfitters and how their hearts and entire family have been changed in the process.

What starts as a conversation about land stewardship quickly turns into something deeper: legacy, faith, humility, and the quiet power of saying “yes” to what God puts in front of you.

Check out B-Tex Ranch by visiting brettingtexanranch.com.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In Part 2 of our inspiring conversation, Kevin Kepple dives deeper into what it means to live fully alive in your God-given identity. He shares powerful stories of mentorship, surrender, and leadership that encourage us to release the burden of control and walk in faith.

Kevin opens up about the early years of his journey, how he found purpose in serving others, and why your “yes” to God is more important than having all the answers. Whether you’re a leader, mentor, or simply seeking more meaning in your life, this episode will challenge and encourage you to take bold steps in obedience to Christ.

Also check out Kevin’s podcast: Unlocking Your Freedom with Kevin Kepple

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this special two-part series, we’re joined by leadership coach and Gallup-certified Strengths expert Kevin Kepple for an honest, unfiltered conversation about discovering your God-given strengths and learning how to lead from them.

Kevin shares how his own leadership journey was shaped—from success in the business world to a moment of personal clarity that led him to help others unlock their full potential. We discuss the power of StrengthsFinder, how to understand your natural brilliance, and why leaning into your strengths can help you better serve God, your family, and your calling.

Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring young men, or simply looking to grow in purpose, this episode lays the groundwork for what it means to lead authentically and effectively.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we go even deeper into practical strategies and spiritual insights around strengths-based leadership.

Also check out Kevin’s podcast: Unlocking Your Freedom with Kevin Kepple

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we sit down with the Shell family—one of the first families to connect with Cross Trail Outfitters Missouri. Their story is a powerful reflection of what happens when a family commits to raising the next generation in faith through the outdoors. From early memories at a Beast Feast to life-changing summer camps and bold spiritual growth, the Shells share how CTO has helped shape their sons into godly men and left a lasting mark on their entire family.

Full of laughter, tears, and testimony, this episode is a reminder of the eternal impact of investing in kids, living boldly, and passing on a legacy rooted in Christ. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or someone passionate about youth discipleship, their journey will both challenge and inspire you.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this special devotional episode, Kirk Bouse shares a heartfelt reflection on walking through life’s valleys and discovering God’s faithfulness in the midst of uncertainty and hardship. Drawing from personal experience, Scripture, and honest prayer, Kirk reminds us that the wilderness can be a place of deep transformation and renewed trust in the Lord. Whether you’re on a mountaintop or in a valley, this episode will encourage you to lean into God’s presence and purpose for your life.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Nathan and Nikki Clark, the story deepens as we witness the remarkable ways God makes His plans known — even when they don’t make worldly sense.

From walking away from their family business to being gifted a century-old bar that would become the CTO Lodge, this episode is a powerful testimony of obedience, spiritual warfare, and God’s faithfulness. Hear how a long-forgotten prayer from a concert in 2011 came full circle, and how their teenage son Jonathan is now carrying the torch — literally and spiritually — as part of their family’s ministry. This isn’t just a story about hunting, fishing, and youth outreach; it’s about trusting God with every unknown and watching Him redeem every chapter.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

Sometimes God speaks loudest in the quiet moments — even from a deer blind in rural Wisconsin. In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Nathan and Nikki Clark to trace their unexpected road to full-time ministry with Cross Trail Outfitters.

You’ll hear how their story began with a music ministry, shifted through farm life and excavating, and ultimately led to discipling youth and leading a CTO chapter. Along the way, they share the doubts, sacrifices, and confirmations that shaped their obedience. It’s a powerful reminder that God doesn’t waste a single season.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

What happens when your love for art, fly fishing, and the outdoors becomes the very thing God uses to reach the next generation? Duane and Marlene Hada have been living that answer for nearly a decade.

Duane serves as the State Director of Cross Trail Outfitters Arkansas, while Marlene stands faithfully beside him—encouraging, mentoring, cooking, and helping create a home away from home for the boys they serve. In this episode of Wild Pursuits, they share how their unique gifts and shared faith have been woven into a life-changing ministry that uses the outdoors as a backdrop for transformation.

Together, they offer a powerful picture of how God uses ordinary people and everyday skills to make an eternal difference. Whether you’re into ministry, mentorship, or just love hearing stories of lives changed in the wild, this one is for you.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we hear directly from two young members of Cross Trail Outfitters—one just getting started and one with several years of experience—as they share what CTO has meant to them. From forging lasting friendships to unforgettable duck hunts with the Roanoke River Delta chapter, their stories offer a fresh perspective on how God uses time in the outdoors to shape lives. This candid conversation highlights the unique experiences and spiritual growth that happen when young people step into the field with CTO.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

Welcome back to Wild Pursuits! This episode is part two of our conversation with North Carolina Outfitter, Josh East. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, be sure to check it out!

Josh dives deeper into what it means to hear from God, even in the quiet moments. He shares powerful insights on recognizing God’s grace in everyday life, the importance of humility, and how acknowledging His presence can transform the way we see the world. From using a simple “grace clicker” to keeping a gratitude journal, Josh offers practical ways to shift our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right in God’s eyes.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this first part of a two-part conversation on Wild Pursuits, we sit down with Josh East, the Manteo chapter Outfitter for Cross Trail Outfitters of North Carolina. From his early days of hiking alone in the mountains to hearing God’s call to mentor young men through the outdoors, Josh shares his incredible journey of faith, obedience, and purpose. Listen as he recounts the moment he realized CTO was the vehicle for his calling, the power of trusting the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and the countless ways God has shown up in the field, on the water, and in the lives of the boys he leads. This episode is packed with faith-filled adventure, divine encounters, and lessons in answering God’s call. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will challenge you to listen, trust, and step into the calling God has placed on your heart!

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

Join us as we sit down with two longtime members of CTO North Carolina. They share how CTO has shaped their lives, from unforgettable hunting and fishing adventures to the life-changing moments of accepting Christ and being baptized. Listen as they recount brotherhood, personal growth, and the impact of faith in the great outdoors. Plus, hear about the Blackduck Island camp, thrilling duck hunts, and the unforgettable “stingray and eggs” tradition. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

What does it mean to grow up surrounded by faith, mentorship, and the wild? In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we gather in a bunkhouse rich with CTO history alongside Kyle, Parker, and Will, three men whose paths from boyhood exploits to deep faith were shaped by Cross Trail Outfitters. Now guides and mentors, they share defining moments including a powerful decision to forgive a father, perseverance in the midst of challenges, and the impact of investing in the next generation. Their stories embody the spirit of CTO, where faith, friendship, and the great outdoors forge boys into men.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

What does it look like to step out in faith and follow God’s call? In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we join Casey and Tiffany Allen as they share their incredible journey into full-time ministry. Casey, a former military serviceman, recounts his path from starting out in CTO as an outfitter to becoming a state director, while Tiffany reflects on her role as a wife, mother, and photographer supporting the mission. They discuss the challenges of raising their own support, the impact of mentorship, and the unforgettable moment when a young man gave his life to Christ.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we sit down with Maverick Lopez and his mother, Cassandra, to hear their powerful story. Maverick was one of the first boys in CTO Missouri’s history, and his journey with CTO has been life-changing. From his first deer hunt in freezing temperatures to a powerful campfire moment that shaped his faith, Maverick shares how CTO helped him navigate the loss of his father and find his purpose. Cassandra also reflects on the impact CTO had on their family and the importance of Godly mentorship. Their story is a testament to God’s presence in both the struggles and victories of life.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this second episode, we sit down with Kirk Bouse, our Executive National Director, and his wife, Jennifer. With nearly 17 years of involvement in Cross Trail Outfitters, they have a powerful story to share. Kirk took a leap of faith, selling his successful business to follow God’s calling for his family. From raising young daughters to now serving as empty nesters, Kirk and Jennifer’s journey with CTO is one of faith, sacrifice, and purpose.

Join us as they reflect on their path and the impact CTO has had on their lives.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we hear from two young men whose lives were forever changed by Cross Trail Outfitters. They joined CTO as teenagers and found mentorship, faith, and a brotherhood rooted in the great outdoors. Their stories are a testament to the life-changing impact of CTO.

If you would like to support us or are interested in getting involved, visit our website at teamcto.org.

Welcome to the first episode of the Wild Pursuits podcast by Cross Trail Outfitters! In this episode, our host, Kirk Bouse, shares what CTO is all about and what you can expect from the podcast. As the National Executive Director of CTO, Kirk has a passion for guiding the next generation to Christ through hunting, fishing, and mentorship. Join us as we dive into the mission, stories, and adventures that make CTO more than just a club—it’s a brotherhood built on faith, heritage, and the great outdoors.

If you would like to support us or are interested in getting involved, visit our website at teamcto.org.