Explore every episode of the podcast Kicked Out

In this episode, Maddie Richards sits down with Kyle Gemas to hear his unique journey into hunting—shifting from a background in sports and fishing to the demanding pursuit of sheep. Kyle shares his preparation for a challenging sheep hunt in Alaska, highlighting the mental and physical obstacles he faced along the way. He reflects on the camaraderie found in the mountains, the beauty of wild places, and the satisfaction of achieving a goal years in the making. Kyle also looks ahead, sharing his future hunting plans with adventures awaiting in British Columbia and Kyrgyzstan. 

Ryan McHugh didn't stumble into sheep hunting—it was the result of years of planning, discipline, and a deep-rooted hunting background shaped by family tradition. In this episode, Ryan walks through the long road that led him north to Canada's remote sheep country, from physical conditioning and dialing in gear to mentally preparing for the realities of mountain hunting.

He reflects on trading a career in forestry for financial planning, and how that shift sharpened his focus on finally pursuing a sheep hunt. Along the way, Ryan shares what it was like navigating rugged terrain under wildfire smoke, glassing vast landscapes, and experiencing the shock and excitement of seeing sheep for the first time. Patience played a central role as days passed waiting for the right opportunity—until everything came together on the third day with a successful harvest. The episode closes with moments that extend beyond the hunt itself, including quiet nights, big country, and the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Tony traces his journey from an eight-year-old picking up hunting for the first time to taking on what he considers the pinnacle of the sport: a challenging sheep hunt that required more than two years of preparation. He breaks down the training, scouting, and long-range shooting work that went into getting ready, as well as the physical and mental toughness demanded by the mountains. Tony reflects on the unpredictable weather, the grind of the hunt, and the surreal moment he finally took his ram—an achievement that felt both earned and humbling. Beyond the adventure itself, he shares how the experience deepened his appreciation for wild sheep conservation and the ongoing efforts to protect these iconic animals. Tony's story proves the dedication of hunters, the importance of conservation, and the incredible wild places that shape both.

When Chelsea drew a coveted Alaska sheep tag, she knew it would require everything—physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this episode, she walks listeners through the full journey: months of preparation, the doubt and determination that shaped her mindset, and the pivotal moments on the mountain that tested her limits. Hunting alongside another woman added a unique layer of support and camaraderie, reminding her that shared grit can carry you further than sheer strength.

Chelsea about the highs and lows of the hunt, from chasing rams across steep country to the quiet moments of reflection when no one else was around. Her story reveals the dedication behind a dream hunt and the sense of fulfillment that comes from earning every step. This isn't just a hunt—it's a testament to what happens when passion, preparation, and opportunity collide.

Whether you're a seasoned mountain hunter or simply someone who loves stories of perseverance, this episode will leave you inspired to chase your own "once-in-a-lifetime" goals.

In this Kicked Out episode, host Maddie Richards catches up with John Hubbard to hear the story of his recent sheep hunt in the Yukon. For John, the trip represented more than just a hunt—it was the culmination of years of dreaming, planning, and preparing for one of the toughest adventures in North America.

He walks listeners through the entire journey, from gearing up and training to the demanding days in steep, unforgiving terrain. John talks about the grind of the mountains, the emotional ups and downs, and the moments of awe that remind hunters why they chase wild sheep in the first place. From the early morning glassing sessions to the final approach on his ram, every step tested his determination and deepened his appreciation for the experience.

Along the way, Maddie and John reflect on how the pursuit of a sheep isn't just about the harvest—it's about the personal growth, the connection to wild places, and the respect for the animals that call them home.

Whether you've hunted sheep yourself or dream of making that journey someday, John's story captures the essence of what it means to be part of the mountain hunting tradition.

In this episode of Kicked Out stories, Maddie Richards sits down with Mike Aiazzi to talk about his journey to drawing a coveted sheep tag in Nevada. Together, they explore the emotional weight of the hunt, the preparation it required, and the meaningful role of family and memories in the experience.

Mike shares insights on the challenges he faced in the field, the beauty of Nevada's landscapes, and how this hunt has shaped his work with the Wild Sheep Foundation. This episode highlights the deeper connections hunting can foster and underscores the vital importance of conservation.

In this episode of the Kicked Out podcast, host Maddie Richards interviews Scott Ellis, CEO of the Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia (GOABC). Scott shares his journey from a childhood steeped in outdoor activities to becoming a passionate advocate for conservation and sustainable hunting practices. He discusses the importance of family traditions in hunting, the role of GOABC in wildlife management, and the recent changes in bighorn sheep hunting regulations. Scott recounts his thrilling experience of hunting bighorn sheep, emphasizing the physical and mental preparation required for such an endeavor. The conversation concludes with reflections on the significance of being 'kicked out' of the Less Than One Club, celebrating the achievements and experiences of hunters.

In this episode of Kicked Out Stories, host Maddie Richards sits down with Danny Sanders, an avid hunter from Colorado, to hear about his remarkable sheep hunting journey. Danny shares how he won his hunt at Sheep Show®, and how that led to his preparation for a challenging hunt in British Columbia. 

He recounts the obstacles he faced navigating rugged terrain, the emotional moment of finally harvesting a legal ram, and the camaraderie he built with his guides along the way. Danny also reflects on the lessons learned from the experience and how it deepened his respect for wild places and wildlife conservation. 

This conversation highlights the dedication required to prepare for a sheep hunt, the thrill of pursuing such an elusive species, and the lifelong appreciation that comes from achieving a hard-earned goal in the mountains. 

In this episode, Maddie Richards sits down with Becky Carlon, a dedicated hunter from
northeastern Nevada, to explore the journey that led to Becky's recent sheep hunt and the
experiences that shaped her along the way. Becky shares how she first found her way into
hunting, the challenges and memorable moments that built her confidence, and what it feels like to carry the responsibility of a high-profile tag. She speaks about the emotional weight of her successful hunt and reflects on the critical role conservation plays in sustaining wildlife and opportunity for future generations. Maddie and Becky also discuss the camaraderie that defines the hunting community and what it means to pursue this lifestyle as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. The conversation highlights perseverance, passion, and respect for wildlife, while Becky offers a glimpse into her future goals and continued commitment to hunting and conservation.

In this episode of the Kicked Out podcast, host Maddie Richards sits down with John King to share the story of how a Midwestern dream turned into a Western mountain reality. Through the Less Than One Club, John got the opportunity of a lifetime—a sheep hunt that challenged him in every way.

John reflects on the excitement of winning, the disciplined training required to prepare, and the mental toughness needed to navigate the inevitable highs and lows of the hunt. He discusses how strength and endurance are only part of the equation- mindset, resilience, and preparation ultimately come together to manufacture success in sheep country. From the thrill of the chase to the emotional rollercoaster that followed, John shares how the experience deepened his appreciation for the mountains and the wild sheep who inhabit them.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Maddie sits down with Pete Briant, the first-ever winner of the Less Than One Club. With no prior sheep hunting experience, Pete found himself on a once-in-a-lifetime hunt in Canada—and made the most of it.

Pete shares what it was like to get the call that he'd won, and how quickly excitement turned into preparation. From getting in shape to figuring out gear and expectations, he dives into what it really takes to get ready for a sheep hunt when you're starting from scratch.

They also talk about the hunt itself—the tough country, unpredictable weather, and the ups and downs that come with it. When the moment finally came, it was everything he'd hoped for and more.

But more than the ram, this story is about the people, the experience, and a growing appreciation for conservation and the community behind wild sheep.

In this episode of Kicked Out Stories, host Maddie Richards sits down with 16-year-old Keetin Daugherty, the youngest guest to appear on the podcast. A passionate hunter from Washington, Keetin shares how she balances school, sports, and life in the outdoors.

Keetin talks about getting her start hunting alongside her dad and how those early experiences sparked a passion that has led her to successfully harvest three sheep by the age of 16. She reflects on the challenges of sheep hunting, the importance of preparation, and the lessons she's learned along the way.

The conversation also explores the unique bond hunting has created with her father, how her experiences differ from most teenagers her age, and why the memories and time spent in the mountains matter more than the harvest itself. Keetin's story highlights the thrill of the chase, the value of family in the field, and the role the next generation plays in the future of wildlife conservation.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Maddie talks with Marcus Gores about the realities of getting into sheep hunting and what it takes to stay committed to the pursuit. As an active member of the Oregon Wild Sheep Foundation, Marcus brings both field experience and a conservation-minded perspective to the conversation.

He walks through his progression from early exposure to archery hunting to booking a last-minute Dall's sheep hunt in Alaska and later taking on the demands of a Stone's sheep hunt. Marcus highlights a common misconception: that physical fitness alone determines success. Instead, he points to mental resilience, decision-making, and adaptability as the traits that matter most when conditions turn ugly in sheep country.

The conversation also touches on the role of community and why involvement in conservation - whether through time, funding, or advocacy - remains essential to the future of wild sheep and the opportunities they represent.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Trevor Rosenberry shares a story that started before he was even born. In 1968, his grandfather drove from Pennsylvania to Alaska, spent two weeks hunting sheep and moose, and came home with a ram that would hang on the family wall for decades.

Trevor grew up looking at that ram—and listening to the stories that came with it. Those stories lit a fire that stayed with him his entire life. Years later, after setting money aside, raising a family, and navigating life—including managing Type 1 diabetes—he finally made the trip himself.

What followed was everything he had imagined and more: tough conditions, deep snow, long hikes, and a surreal, close-range encounter with a mature ram in the Brooks Range.

But more than the harvest, this is about legacy—how stories, family, and time in wild places shape who we are, and how those experiences get passed down.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Maddie sits down with Josh Cafasso to break down the reality behind his first bighorn sheep hunt in Colorado. After drawing a highly coveted tag in just five years, Josh committed to months of preparation—shooting, scouting, and studying the mental side of sheep hunting.

What followed was a nine-day grind. From 12-hour hikes without spotting a ram to multiple blown opportunities—including spooked sheep, missed chances, and last-second setbacks—Josh was pushed to the edge mentally. With time running out and work pulling him back home each day, the pressure to capitalize mounted.

Then, in the final evening of the hunt, everything came together. A mature ram stepped into view, and Josh made a 400-yard shot to seal it.

This episode captures the highs, lows, and hard-earned reality of a sheep hunt—and why success is never guaranteed.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Maddie Richards is joined by Colorado firefighter Josh Martin to relive the hunt that ended with his first wild sheep. After two years of physical preparation and countless hours planning for the trip, Josh travels to the Yukon for a horseback-supported Dall sheep hunt with Mervyn's Yukon Outfitting. On the first day, he and his guides, Brody and Otto, locate multiple bands of rams, pass a younger ram, and spend hours working into position before closing the distance to just 127 yards. Josh reflects on trusting his guide's judgment, overcoming early setbacks like blistered feet, and the surreal moment of putting his hands on his first ram. Rather than heading home after a successful hunt, he stays in camp for the remainder of the trip, helping around camp, glassing for sheep, fishing, and taking in an experience he had dreamed about for years.

Jesse Edgar grew up around sheep hunting, but earning his first ram took far more time and effort than he ever expected. In this episode of Kicked Out, Jesse shares the story of a Yukon adventure that stretched across 33 days and more than 200 miles of hiking.

After going home without a ram on his first Dall's sheep hunt in 2023, Jesse returned to the Yukon the following year for another chance. What started as a typical sheep hunt evolved into multiple hunting opportunities, each bringing new challenges, missed chances, and unexpected twists. From long days in difficult terrain and constant weather changes to close encounters with legal rams, Jesse details the physical and mental grind of staying in the hunt when success seemed increasingly unlikely.

Throughout the conversation, Jesse reflects on the value of persistence, the influence of his family's sheep hunting heritage, and why the experience itself mattered just as much as finally getting his ram.

In this episode of Kicked Out, Maddie sits down with Larry Clark for a conversation about the deeper meaning behind a life spent hunting. Larry shares how early experiences with family laid the foundation for a lifelong connection to wild places, wildlife, and specifically, wild sheep. 

The discussion follows Larry's journey to drawing a highly sought-after sheep tag, exploring not only the excitement of the opportunity but also the years of anticipation, preparation, and hope that came before it. Along the way, he reflects on the lessons learned from mentors, the bonds formed through shared adventures in the mountains, and the emotional weight that comes with pursuing a lifelong dream.

Larry's perspective offers an honest look at why these experiences matter and how they become part of a larger story worth sharing.

In this episode, host Maddie Richards interviews Tristan Richter, a young hunter from Montana who shares his unique experience of winning an international sheep hunt. This episode not only highlights a unique journey but also underscores the excitement and unpredictability of the hunting community – especially the <1 Club program. Tristan's journey from a sheep show attendee and <1 iClub member to an international hunter exemplifies the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of hunting. His passion for the outdoors, combined with the thrill of winning a unique hunting opportunity, showcases the vibrant community surrounding this sport. Key takeaways include the importance of being open to new experiences, the thrill of adventure, and the invaluable connections made through hunting.

British Columbia resident Anthony Klubi didn't grow up in a sheep hunting family, but after joining the Wild Sheep Society of BC, he committed himself to learning the mountains, studying rams, and building the skills needed to hunt sheep the right way. After several seasons of close calls and hard-earned experience, his persistence paid off with the harvest of a mature Stone's sheep. 

In this episode of Kicked Out, Anthony shares what he learned through multiple unsuccessful hunts, how field judging and aging rams became one of the most important parts of his development as a sheep hunter, and why he and his hunting partners repeatedly chose to pass younger legal rams. He also recounts a hunt filled with memorable moments—from a porcupine chewing through camp gear to a close encounter with a grizzly bear—before finally harvesting a mature ram in a place that held special meaning after the passing of his grandfather. The conversation highlights patience, ethical decision-making, and the conservation mindset behind responsible sheep hunting.

Arizona sheep guide Joel Ingram has spent years helping others pursue wild sheep. When he finally drew his own Arizona desert bighorn sheep tag, he approached the hunt with a clear goal: find an old, mature ram and enjoy the opportunity the resource provides. 

In this episode of Kicked Out, Joel discusses preparing for a hunt in unfamiliar country, scouting through extreme desert conditions, and the events that led to harvesting an 11½-year-old ram. He also shares practical advice on training for mountain hunts, the value of experience over score, and how conservation efforts made his opportunity possible. The conversation covers the realities of sheep hunting, the perspective gained from years of guiding, and why Joel is now focused on giving back through conservation and sheep management in Arizona.

After growing up hunting whitetails in Pennsylvania, Keith Hart never imagined his path would lead to the mountains of Alaska in pursuit of Dall's sheep. In this episode of Kicked Out, Keith recounts the journey that began with a Wyoming elk hunt, eventually leading him to the Wild Sheep Foundation's Less Than One Club and a once-in-a-lifetime sheep hunt.

Keith shares the unforgettable experience of winning his hunt at Sheep Show, preparing for an Alaska adventure during the uncertainty of the COVID era, and the emotional highs and lows of harvesting his first ram. Along the way, he reflects on overcoming major health challenges, the friendships built through the Wild Sheep Foundation, and why supporting wild sheep conservation has become such an important part of his life. It's a story about perseverance, community, and the lasting impact a single sheep hunt can have on a hunter's future.