Gundog Nation – Details, episodes & analysis
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A show to bring together gundog enthusiasts, trainers, and handlers with discussion focused on all breeds and styles of gundogs.
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See all- https://migraammunitions.com
531 shares
- https://www.purina.com/pro-plan
193 shares
- https://www.patreon.com/GunDogNation
126 shares
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See allScore global : 48%
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Jonathan Holland - What Makes A Great Boykin: Bloodlines, Balance, And The Will To Retrieve
mardi 4 novembre 2025 • Duration 01:13:02
#59 Want a Boykin that actually loves to retrieve and holds up under pressure? We sit down with Alabama trainer-breeder Jonathan Holland of Tomahawk Kennels to unpack what separates a flashy social clip from a reliable, confident gun dog. Jonathan cuts through the hype with hard-won insight on bloodlines, water work, and day-to-day reps that turn potential into performance.
We start with the Boykin boom: how social media raised awareness, why prices range wildly, and what “elite” really means in a pedigree. Jonathan spotlights the Brandywine program and explains how true performance breeding comes from years of selecting for birdiness, water attitude, structure, and titles earned in real work. From there, we dig into the spaniel-versus-retriever gap. A Boykin’s last name is Spaniel, and training must respect that DNA. He shows how timing and balance matter more than bravado, why too much pressure kills confidence fast, and how marker training with a vocal “yes” builds clarity before formal drills demand precision.
Water work becomes the crucible. Jonathan designed narrow ponds and re-entry lines to teach soft de-cheating and to stack short swims for far more quality reps. He explains why a dog that “loves” lake splashes may still crumble on formal lines, cheaty banks, or no-go moments. Expect fails at hunt tests built for labs; use them as fuel to refine setups, improve whistle timing, and make fewer mistakes. We also talk about expanding into labs and goldens for bigger games, while still pushing Boykin consistency through intentional pairings and smarter foundations. The throughline is simple: keep it fun, be fair, and design training to make the right choice the easy choice.
If you’re serious about Boykins, retriever training, or just want better sessions with less pressure and more progress, this one’s packed with practical detail you can use today. Subscribe, share with a training buddy, and leave a review telling us your go-to water drill and why it works.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Anna Blanton - When Authentic Music Beats The Machine: The Creekers’ Raw Ascent
jeudi 30 octobre 2025 • Duration 01:08:46
#58 A fiddle on fire, a crowd roaring back, and a band sprinting from small-town stages to New Year’s Eve at the Ryman—this conversation with Anna Blanton of the Creekers pulls back the curtain on a rise that feels as electric as it looks. We start with roots: classical violin and Irish tunes, the discipline that builds precise hands, and the guts to throw out the page and play by ear. Anna explains how years backing singer-songwriters taught minimalism, then how the Creekers unlocked her as a full-fledged entertainer—part arranger, part sparkplug, all-in on making the live show the main event.
What sets the Creekers apart? Raw, live-first recording and performance chemistry you can’t fake. No studio ringers. No Auto-Tune. Their full-length was cut in two days, and the edges are intentional: the same band you see on stage is the band on the record. We talk Barberville’s drone-shot sea of fans, sold-out runs, and why big festival lineups are opening back up to bands with distinct voices. Anna shares her favorite moments—from a three-hour dance floor that never emptied to the thrill of stepping onto the Ryman stage with Old Crow Medicine Show—and the wild stagecraft that somehow always serves the song: flaming bows, horseback fiddling, zip lines, and crowd-surf-level energy.
Underneath the spectacle is a quieter truth: teamwork beats virtuosity in isolation. Anna is candid about being “the hired help” for years and what it means to finally feel a community at her back. In a world overflowing with gloss and AI polish, the Creekers’ authenticity is the point—and it’s why fans sing along even when they can’t see the stage. Ready to feel that spark? Hit play, share this with a friend who loves real live music, and if it moves you, subscribe and leave a review so more folks can find the show.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Kenneth Laird - How a Beagle Owner Became a Gundog Artist
Episode 49
jeudi 25 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:24:28
#49 The seemingly predestined connection between Kenneth Laird and gundog artistry unfolds in this captivating conversation that weaves together shared Southern roots, childhood hunting experiences, and artistic evolution. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee with a natural gift for art and a passion for rabbit hunting with beagles, Laird's journey from commercial illustrator to acclaimed gundog artist reveals the intersection of talent and authentic passion.
Despite formal art education and a successful 30-year career in commercial design, Laird found himself creatively unfulfilled until a transformative challenge from a fellow artist: "If you could paint anything you wanted, what would it be?" The answer led him back to his first love—hunting dogs. When he merged his nephew's black Lab with an abstract background in 2021, something magical happened that would redefine his artistic path.
Laird's innovative technique combines hand-painted abstract backgrounds with digitally integrated photographic elements, creating distinctive portraits that capture not just the likeness but the spirit of working gundogs. Through collaborations with renowned dog photographers and connections with passionate dog owners, his artwork has found its way into homes across America and commanded impressive prices at conservation banquets.
The emotional impact of Laird's work—especially when creating memorial portraits of beloved hunting companions—speaks to the deep connection between hunters and their dogs. Now an official artist for Delta Waterfowl with pieces selling for thousands at auctions, Laird remains grounded in his love for watching dogs work, considering each commission not just an artistic opportunity but a chance to honor the remarkable partnership between hunters and their canine companions.
Reach out to Kenneth through Instagram @kennethlairdstudios or email at kenlairdartist@gmail.com to commission your own custom gundog portrait that captures the essence of your hunting partner in his signature style.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Ronnie Cowan - Engaging Youth in Gundogs and Hunting
Episode 48
mardi 23 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:18:22
#48 In this conversation, Kenneth Witt and Ronnie Cowan discuss the importance of outdoor recreation advocacy, particularly focusing on youth programs in Tennessee that aim to engage young people in hunting and conservation. Cowan shares insights on the innovative approaches taken to introduce youth to gun dogs and hunting, the funding and support for these programs, and the significance of teaching hunting skills as part of wildlife management.
They also touch on the challenges of dog training, the role of gun dogs in outdoor education, and the upcoming Outdoor Enthusiasts Expo, which aims to promote outdoor activities and education. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy in hunting rights and the importance of preserving the heritage of hunting and outdoor recreation.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Tanner Horton - The Creekers: From Creek to Country Stardom
Episode 47
jeudi 18 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:16:24
From creek beds to the country music spotlight, Tanner Horton shares the remarkable rise of The Creekers in this intimate conversation about authentic music, rural roots, and overnight viral success.
The gravel in Tanner Horton's voice matches the authenticity of his story—a tale of musical passion born in the hollers of Eastern Kentucky, nurtured through family traditions, and suddenly thrust into the spotlight through a viral TikTok video. As lead guitarist and vocalist for The Creekers, Tanner offers listeners a rare glimpse into the band's organic formation around 2020, when they played their first gig at a small Tennessee bar for just $150.
What makes this episode particularly special is hearing the backstory of songs like "Hidin' Kentucky" and "River Rat" directly from their creator, including the poignant moment when Tanner performs an acoustic version of "River Rat" exclusively for the podcast. His musical journey winds through formative years at the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music, where legends like Bobby Osborne helped shape his distinctive sound—a sound that caught fire when The Creekers' "Tennessee Song" exploded across social media platforms.
Beyond music, Tanner reveals the balancing act of maintaining his horseshoeing work while fielding calls from major record labels and booking increasingly prestigious venues. His aspirations remain refreshingly grounded: a piece of land for hunting and raising cattle, and a good saddle mule—dreams that reflect the authentic rural values permeating The Creekers' sound. As the band prepares to record their next album in Nashville, this conversation captures a pivotal moment in their ascent, documenting how genuine storytelling and musical craftsmanship can still cut through the noise in today's digital landscape.
Ready to discover your next favorite band before they become household names? Listen now and be among the first to experience The Creekers' authentic country sound that's rapidly winning hearts across America.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Adrian Jackson - Breaking Points: How Training Methods Connect Troubled Youth and Bird Dogs
Episode 46
mardi 16 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:14:22
Adrian Jackson shares his extraordinary dual career as a championship bird dog trainer and youth mentor at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch in Texas. His insights reveal the surprising parallels between training high-performance field trial dogs and helping at-risk youth overcome trauma and build successful lives.
• Vice President of Home Life at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch for nearly 29 years, overseeing care for 116 children with capacity for 430
• Cal Farley's is privately funded with an independent school district on campus, taking children ages 5-16 from across the United States
• Won multiple national field trial championships with dogs including Poker Straight Flash, Nemaha Butterfly, and Poker Straight Jet Star
• Judges national championships across many breeds including Brittanys, German Shorthairs, English Setters and Pointers
• Discovered parallels between dog training and youth care through understanding the "survival brain" response in both
• Both disciplines require sequential training, predictable routines, and patience for development
• Co-authored chapters in three New York Times bestselling books in the Impact Influence series
• Currently writing "A Purpose Driven Youth Care Worker" about maintaining focus while working with challenging youth
• Runs Poker Straight Kennel providing training services with regular video updates for clients through social media
• Emphasizes the importance of patience in developing both dogs and young people, warning against culling promising talent too early
Please visit calfarley.org to learn more about the Boys Ranch program or contact Adrian through Poker Straight Kennel on Facebook.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Summer Reynolds - Dog and Hunt Supply: From Foxhounds to Retail
Episode 45
jeudi 11 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:07:23
#45 Summer Reynolds has hunting in her blood. From childhood nights spent howling alongside her father to call in coyotes, to building a nationally-renowned hunting dog supply store in tiny Quitman, Arkansas (population 765), Summer's life revolves around dogs that chase, tree, and track.
During our conversation, Summer takes us through her remarkable hunting journey, starting with foxhound traditions that are gradually disappearing. "Friday night we'd get, Dad would come home from work and of course I would be ready to go hunting," she recalls, describing nights spent on the hood of a truck, eating cupcakes and listening to hounds run until daylight. From foxhounds, she expanded to deer dogs (her beloved "regals" – redbone crosses), squirrel dogs, and eventually coon hounds, gaining expertise across the spectrum of chase hunting.
What makes Dog and Hunt Supply extraordinary isn't just the impressive inventory – though Summer ensures they're never out of anything a customer might drive hours to purchase. It's her authentic connection to the hunting community and commitment to service. Rather than redirecting customers with broken tracking collars to manufacturers, Summer troubleshoots and repairs equipment herself. "I mean there's a lot of people out there that don't know what to do," she explains, "It's just a lot easier for me to say just bring it up here and I'll fix it for you."
Her measured approach to social media – focusing on quality demonstrations rather than daily content – has built a devoted following. The annual Customer Appreciation event has evolved from a simple sale into what Summer describes as "a huge houndsman reunion," drawing 3,000-3,500 visitors from across the country.
Whether you're a dedicated houndsman or simply appreciate authentic businesses built on genuine expertise, this conversation offers a refreshing glimpse into a world where passion, community, and tradition still thrive. Check out dogandhunt.com or download their app to experience Summer's remarkable hunting dog emporium for yourself.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Josh Parvin - Gundog Training, Health, and Heritage
Episode 44
mardi 9 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:14:08
#44 When disaster strikes in the field, are you prepared to save your dog's life?
Josh Parvin of Cornerstone Gundog Academy and Retriever Training Supply shares the harrowing story that led to creating their best-selling First Aid Kit after his retriever hit a barbed wire fence at full speed during a Kansas hunt. That close call transformed his approach to emergency preparedness and sparked a mission to help fellow gundog owners be ready for anything.
The conversation explores the fundamental difference between training methodologies in the retriever world. As Josh explains, "My dog does this because it gets to do it, not because it has to do it." This distinction highlights why the Cornerstone approach resonates with so many hunting dog owners who want their companions to work from enthusiasm rather than obligation. We discuss how this philosophy sometimes creates a culture clash between different segments of the gundog community.
The most exciting revelation? A high school teacher has established what may be the first official gundog team at a public school in Georgia. Students who previously had little outdoor experience are now handling spaniels and retrievers in AKC hunt tests, creating a model that could revolutionize youth engagement with hunting dogs. Kenneth shares his mission to support this groundbreaking program and calls on listeners to help provide resources for these students.
Throughout the episode, one truth emerges from conversations with top trainers worldwide: consistency trumps intensity. Whether you're aiming for a hunting companion or field trial champion, showing up consistently over time delivers better results than sporadic intense sessions. Josh's insights from working with Cornerstone members across the country reveal that family-friendly, consistent training protocols create dogs that owners can genuinely be proud of.
Ready to join a movement that's preserving our gundog heritage? This episode offers practical wisdom for both new and experienced handlers while celebrating the community that makes Gun Dog Nation more than just a podcast.
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Trevor Wade - Inside UKC's Lucrative Coonhound Circuit
Episode 43
jeudi 4 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:21:40
#42 Have you ever wondered why some dog sports offer substantial cash prizes while others only provide ribbons and titles? In this fascinating conversation with Trevor Wade, Coonhound Program Manager at United Kennel Club (UKC), we uncover the remarkable economics of coonhound competitions that have created a thriving circuit where handlers compete for serious money.
Trevor pulls back the curtain on UKC's Tournament of Champions, which offers a jaw-dropping $250,000 purse with $50,000 going to the winner. Unlike many dog sports that rely heavily on corporate sponsorship, this system is primarily funded through clever structuring of entry fees and a $5 per-dog contribution at local events. The brilliance lies in how they've created a qualification system requiring dogs to win five local competitions before advancing to championships, simultaneously supporting grassroots clubs while building excitement for major events.
We also explore the mechanics of coonhound trials, where dogs compete in "casts" of four, earning points for both striking trails and treeing raccoons. Trevor explains the scoring system, the strategies handlers employ, and how competitions unfold from local events to prestigious championships like Autumn Oaks and the World Championship. His insights into the community aspects—from youth programs that are successfully attracting young women into the sport to the geographic concentration primarily in the Eastern and Midwestern United States—paint a complete picture of this unique sporting tradition.
Whether you're involved in retrievers, pointing dogs, or any other canine sporting discipline, there are valuable lessons to be learned from how the coonhound world has created financially rewarding competitions that honor tradition while adapting to contemporary needs. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that might just change how you think about competitive dog sports!
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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Dave Bavero - Waterstone Labradors, Breeding and Training British Labs
Episode 42
mardi 2 septembre 2025 • Duration 01:05:44
#42 Dave Bavero opens a window into the nuanced world of British Labs, sharing insights from his 25-year journey with these remarkable gundogs. As the founder of Waterstone Labradors in Bernie, Texas, Dave has created more than just a breeding program – he's established a vital cultural bridge between American hunters and the centuries-old traditions of British and Irish retriever work.
What sets Dave's approach apart is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. Rather than simply importing dogs, he regularly travels to Ireland and the UK, forging relationships with elite trainers and breeders, observing field trials firsthand, and selecting dogs that embody the qualities he values most: calm temperament, natural ability, good structure, and that magical balance of being able to "turn off and turn on" – relaxed at home but dynamite in the field.
The heart of our conversation reveals Dave's distinctive training philosophy, which challenges many conventional American methods. His patient, pressure-free approach emphasizes obedience foundations before retriever work begins. He shares fascinating techniques like using food bowls instead of bumpers for young puppies, extensive place board training, and his commitment to training without electronic collars. "There's a bond between you and your dog that's the most important thing," Dave explains, noting that dogs trained in the traditional British style often display more enthusiasm and style than their heavily-pressured counterparts.
Whether you're considering a British Lab, curious about alternative training methods, or simply fascinated by different gundog traditions, this episode offers valuable perspectives that might transform your approach to dog training. Dave's parting wisdom resonates powerfully: focus on finding a dog that truly fits your lifestyle, invest in consistent training, and prioritize the bond with your canine companion above all else.
Gundog Nation is Proudly Sponsored by Waterstone Labradors.
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