Explore every episode of the podcast The Storied Outdoors

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with writer Seth Lewis, author of The Language of the Rivers and the Stars, for a conversation about wonder, creation, and learning to pay attention.

Seth takes us back to his childhood adventures growing up in Huntsville, Alabama, and the mountains of North Alabama, sharing stories of exploration, including learning to trust his dog’s remarkable homing instincts. His journey eventually took him to Ireland, where living and pastoring among breathtaking landscapes deepened his sense of awe and helped shape an idea that would become central to his writing: creation has a language.

But what does creation say?

For Seth, the rivers, mountains, stars, wildflowers, and even the chaos of the sea can point beyond themselves to the glory, wisdom, and character of God. Creation doesn't replace revelation, but it gives words like glory, wonder, and majesty a meaning we can experience.

Drawing on C.S. Lewis and Scripture, we talk about wonder as a language of the soul, what we lose when we stop paying attention to the natural world, and how slowing down can restore something we desperately need: perspective.

Seth reminds us of Jesus' invitation to “consider the wildflowers” and offers a simple challenge for a distracted and hurried world:

Look up.

Whether you're standing beside a river, walking through the woods, staring at the stars, or simply going about an ordinary day, creation is inviting us to pause, pay attention, and remember the One who made it.

Follow Seth’s Blog @ Sethlewis.ie

Purchase Seth’s Book Here

Philippians 4:8

[8] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (ESV)

In this Stoking Embers episode of The Storied Outdoors, Brad Hill and Bryan Gill reflect on their conversation with Grant Batson, craftsman, pipe maker, guitarist, and fly fisherman. Inspired by Grant’s approach to his work and life, Brad and Bryan explore the relationship between craftsmanship, beauty, rest, and the lessons we learn through failure.

Growing up in an environment where things were repaired rather than replaced, Grant developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for making things by hand. But his story also reveals something deeper: the importance of creating things that are not merely useful, but beautiful. In a world increasingly shaped by efficiency, convenience, and disposable products, what do we lose when we stop valuing beauty, quality, and things built to last?

The conversation turns to our capacity to recognize beauty as a reflection of our Creator. From the architecture of Sarajevo and the craftsmanship of heirloom furniture to the flowers growing in a garden and the fleeting colors of a sunset, Brad and Bryan consider how learning to see beauty can deepen our gratitude, awaken our worship, and help us recognize the inherent value of the people around us. They also explore how we cultivate an eye for what is good through apprenticeship, imitation, and the wisdom of those who have gone before us.

Grant’s reflections on rest and failure offer another important lesson. When we lose our peace, we hurry—and when we hurry, we often make poor decisions. Whether through pipe making, fly fishing, or simply sitting beside a river with nowhere else to be, we need practices that slow us down and remind us that life is more than a race against the clock. And when we fail, we have an opportunity to learn, grow, and extend grace to ourselves and others.

Join Brad and Bryan for a thoughtful conversation about recovering the art of making, learning to see beauty, embracing failure, and making room for the kind of rest that helps us pay attention to what matters most.

The Storied Outdoors explores the stories that shape us and the lessons our adventures teach us about the lives we are meant to live.

Street Photographer Dino https://www.instagram.com/dino.serrao/

Aldous Huxley "Time and the Machine"

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we’re joined by Grant Batson, craftsman, pipe maker, guitar maker, fly fisherman, and founder of Batson Made. Grant has spent his life learning the language of wood, following its grain, respecting its character, and patiently transforming rough pieces of material into objects of beauty and lasting value.

In a culture increasingly defined by speed, convenience, and disposable things, Grant’s work offers a different way of seeing. His story is one of craftsmanship, patience, and the conviction that making something well matters. We talk about the childhood experiences and mentors that shaped his imagination, the common thread connecting his guitars, furniture, and pipes, and the moment craftsmanship became more than a hobby and began to feel like a calling.

Grant takes us inside the world of pipe making and shares what working with wood has taught him about patience, failure, and paying attention. We explore what it means to “follow the grain” and how that philosophy might extend beyond the workshop and into the way we live our own lives. We even imagine what it would mean for someone to discover one of his pipes a hundred years from now—and what that object might reveal about the man who made it.

Our conversation also takes us outdoors, where Grant’s love of fly fishing provides another window into the contemplative life. Along the way, we talk about our mutual friend Chris Hanson, the curious connection between fly fishing and pipe smoking, and why both activities seem to invite us to slow down, pay attention, and be present in a world that rarely encourages either.

Ultimately, this is a conversation about more than pipes, guitars, wood, or fly fishing. It’s about the stories embedded in the things we make, the adventures that shape us, and the deeper work of becoming the people we were created to be.

And perhaps the question at the heart of the conversation is this:

If we spend our lives turning rough blocks of wood into objects of beauty, what does the process of becoming teach us about what God is shaping in all of us?

Bryan and Brad break down their conversation with Jason from OutdoorX4 Magazine.

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Jason Varnedoe, Chief Marketing Officer of OutdoorX4, lifelong fisherman, habitual tinkerer, pilot, mentor, and—perhaps most fittingly—a pathfinder.

Jason’s story stretches from the coastal marshes and diverse landscapes of South Carolina to the canyon creeks and desert washes of Arizona. Along the way, a lifetime of fishing, camping, flying, tinkering, and exploring has shaped the way he sees both the outdoors and the stories we tell about it. We talk about the places that formed him, his next adventure chasing small streams with a fly rod, and how a serious heart surgery became an unexpected chapter in his own story of finding a way forward.

Jason also pulls back the curtain on OutdoorX4, an immersive media platform built around the idea that vehicles can be gateways to meaningful outdoor experiences. We explore the explosion of overlanding and the funny reality that much of what is now marketed as “overlanding gear” used to be what we simply called camping. More importantly, we dig into what happens when the gear, the marketing, and the adventure become secondary to the experience itself.

That leads to a deeper conversation about storytelling and authenticity. Jason shares how OutdoorX4 chooses the stories it tells, how he balances marketing strategy with genuine storytelling, and why he believes people are far more discerning than the internet sometimes gives them credit for. We talk about the loss of community stories, the importance of reclaiming the “real” in our lives, and the ordinary stories—bartering over the price of crickets, earning free coffee by sweeping a parking lot, and the small moments around a campfire—that often become the stories that make us.

We also explore the power of a fire in the wilderness: how, in the darkness, a distant light can mean something far greater than warmth or cooking. A fire is greater than the sum of its parts. It signals presence. It offers hope. And perhaps that is what good stories do, too.

Ultimately, this conversation moves beyond adventure and marketing into something much more foundational: community, presence, and the people who shape us. Jason reflects on mentoring the next generation and lands on a simple truth every parent and adventurer should remember—the most important thing you can give a child is your presence.

It’s a conversation about finding your way, telling better stories, and remembering that the best adventures aren’t always the most spectacular ones. Sometimes they’re the ones that bring us back to what—and who—matters most.

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Jason Varnadoe, Chief Marketing Officer of OutdoorX4, lifelong fisherman, habitual tinkerer, pilot, mentor, and—perhaps most fittingly—a pathfinder.

Jason’s story stretches from the coastal marshes and diverse landscapes of South Carolina to the canyon creeks and desert washes of Arizona. Along the way, a lifetime of fishing, camping, flying, tinkering, and exploring has shaped the way he sees both the outdoors and the stories we tell about it. We talk about the places that formed him, his next adventure chasing small streams with a fly rod, and how a serious heart surgery became an unexpected chapter in his own story of finding a way forward.

Jason also pulls back the curtain on OutdoorX4, an immersive media platform built around the idea that vehicles can be gateways to meaningful outdoor experiences. We explore the explosion of overlanding and the funny reality that much of what is now marketed as “overlanding gear” used to be what we simply called camping. More importantly, we dig into what happens when the gear, the marketing, and the adventure become secondary to the experience itself.

That leads to a deeper conversation about storytelling and authenticity. Jason shares how OutdoorX4 chooses the stories it tells, how he balances marketing strategy with genuine storytelling, and why he believes people are far more discerning than the internet sometimes gives them credit for. We talk about the loss of community stories, the importance of reclaiming the “real” in our lives, and the ordinary stories—bartering over the price of crickets, earning free coffee by sweeping a parking lot, and the small moments around a campfire—that often become the stories that make us.

We also explore the power of a fire in the wilderness: how, in the darkness, a distant light can mean something far greater than warmth or cooking. A fire is greater than the sum of its parts. It signals presence. It offers hope. And perhaps that is what good stories do, too.

Ultimately, this conversation moves beyond adventure and marketing into something much more foundational: community, presence, and the people who shape us. Jason reflects on mentoring the next generation and lands on a simple truth every parent and adventurer should remember—the most important thing you can give a child is your presence.

It’s a conversation about finding your way, telling better stories, and remembering that the best adventures aren’t always the most spectacular ones. Sometimes they’re the ones that bring us back to what—and who—matters most.

visit www.outdoorx4.com

Subscribe to Outdoorx4 YouTube Here

Visit Outdoorx4 Instagram Here

Bryan and Brad sit down and stoke the embers of thier conversation with Howard Schaap and his Memior Brooding over the Waters.

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with writer Howard Schaap, author of Brooding Upon the Waters: A Memoir of Farming, Fishing, and Failure in America’s Lost Landscape. Howard’s writing carries the weight of place—the smell of river water, the ache of family stories, and the long memory of the American landscape.

Growing up in rural Minnesota during the farm crisis of the 1980s, Howard learned early that the places we inhabit become part of who we are. In this conversation, he reflects on his childhood creek, the farms and small towns that shaped him, and the pull that eventually brought him back to the landscapes he had left behind. We talk about what happens when rural communities are hollowed out, what is lost when we become disconnected from land and tradition, and what it might look like to recover a deeper sense of rootedness.

Howard also speaks candidly about failure—failed fishing trips, struggling farms, family wounds, and the ways failure can shape our understanding of grace. Drawing on Tom McGuane’s The Longest Silence, he reflects on those long, unproductive stretches on the water and how they can become a picture of the long silences we sometimes experience in our relationship with God.

From fishing and fly fishing to Wendell Berry, Charles Ingalls, and Little House on the Prairie, the conversation explores the connection between story, landscape, faith, and memory. Howard offers a beautiful vision of what it means to imagine the new heavens and the new earth not in abstract terms, but through the particular places we have loved—the very waters where our fathers fished, the landscapes where our stories unfolded, and even the shores where Christ might meet us with a breakfast of fish.

At the heart of this conversation is a simple but profound idea: our faith, our stories, and our lives happen somewhere.We are creatures of place, and learning to love the particular places we have been given may be part of learning to see God’s grace more clearly.

Join us as we sit with Howard Schaap and brood upon the waters—considering failure and grace, fishing and prayer, memory and place, and what it means to hope for a restored creation through the local pictures of the landscapes we know and love.

Howard Schaap, author of Brooding Over the Water: A Memoir of Farming, Fishing, and Failure in America's Lost Landscape

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with writer Howard Schaap, author of Brooding Upon the Waters: A Memoir of Farming, Fishing, and Failure in America’s Lost Landscape. Howard’s writing carries the weight of place—the smell of river water, the ache of family stories, and the long memory of the American landscape.

Growing up in rural Minnesota during the farm crisis of the 1980s, Howard learned early that the places we inhabit become part of who we are. In this conversation, he reflects on his childhood creek, the farms and small towns that shaped him, and the pull that eventually brought him back to the landscapes he had left behind. We talk about what happens when rural communities are hollowed out, what is lost when we become disconnected from land and tradition, and what it might look like to recover a deeper sense of rootedness.

Howard also speaks candidly about failure—failed fishing trips, struggling farms, family wounds, and the ways failure can shape our understanding of grace. Drawing on Tom McGuane’s The Longest Silence, he reflects on those long, unproductive stretches on the water and how they can become a picture of the long silences we sometimes experience in our relationship with God.

From fishing and fly fishing to Wendell Berry, Charles Ingalls, and Little House on the Prairie, the conversation explores the connection between story, landscape, faith, and memory. Howard offers a beautiful vision of what it means to imagine the new heavens and the new earth not in abstract terms, but through the particular places we have loved—the very waters where our fathers fished, the landscapes where our stories unfolded, and even the shores where Christ might meet us with a breakfast of fish.

At the heart of this conversation is a simple but profound idea: our faith, our stories, and our lives happen somewhere.We are creatures of place, and learning to love the particular places we have been given may be part of learning to see God’s grace more clearly.

Join us as we sit with Howard Schaap and brood upon the waters—considering failure and grace, fishing and prayer, memory and place, and what it means to hope for a restored creation through the local pictures of the landscapes we know and love.

A New Era for The Storied Outdoors

At the onset of what would normally be the beginning of season 12, The Storied Outdoors enters into a new era of “the last season.” But don’t fret, we’re not ending, we’re just beginning. Starting with this introduction episode, The Storied Outdoors will begin dropping weekly episodes for the entire year.

This episode recaps a summer full of adventures from the Hill and Gill families. We also look back at our origin story that took place along the banks of the Toccoa River in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the spring of 2020. We also foreshadow the upcoming guests for the fall. As always, thank you for listening and for following along with us in this journey. The best is yet to come!

Ep. 182: Season 11 Stoking Embers and the End of an Era

In this episode of the Storied Outdoors, Brad and Bryan recap their quail hunting adventure at Turkey Creek Outdoors Lodge. Bryan recalls his first quail hunt, and they reflect on several stories of their day with Ben and Al Bracewell. They also look back at season 11 highlights and the guests who joined them this season. In the final segment of this episode, Brad and Bryan say goodbye to an era as the last season of the Storied Outdoors ends. Be sure to tune in for news of what is next for the podcast.

Email us: thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com

Quail Hunting in Alabama: A Conversation with Al & Ben Bracewell of Turkey Creek Outdoors

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Al and Ben Bracewell, the father-and-son team behind Turkey Creek Outdoors—a premier hunting lodge located in Eldridge, Alabama. Spanning more than 2,000 acres of diverse terrain, Turkey Creek has become a sought-after destination for those looking for an authentic quail hunting experience in Alabama, along with unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Built as a family-owned and operated retreat, Turkey Creek Outdoors was created with a clear mission: to offer a place where guests can find rest, connection, and meaningful experiences in the outdoors. Today, the property hosts everything from guided quail hunts and Continental pheasant shoots to sporting clays, corporate retreats, and group gatherings—all set against the quiet beauty of Alabama’s countryside.

Bryan and Brad had the privilege of experiencing a traditional quail hunt firsthand, and it delivered in every way. But what stood out most began the night before—gathered around a roaring fire pit, swapping stories under the open sky. That evening captured the heart of Turkey Creek: genuine hospitality, unhurried conversation, and the kind of moments that stay with you long after you leave.

This episode is a continuation of that fireside conversation.

We hear how Turkey Creek Outdoors grew from hosting sawmill customers into a full-scale destination for hunters, families, and organizations seeking quail hunting in Alabama and beyond. Al and Ben share their story of building something rooted in legacy, faith, and a deep love for people.

Recorded inside the lodge’s main hall—overlooking a peaceful lake and framed by wide windows and rolling hills—this conversation reflects the setting itself: open, thoughtful, and rich with perspective. It’s more than a hunting story. It’s about fatherhood, stewardship, and creating spaces where people can reconnect with what matters most.

As the Bracewells put it:
"We strive to ensure that every visitor leaves feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges of the world."

From wild coveys rising in the field to quiet moments by the fire, this episode captures the spirit of Turkey Creek Outdoors—an Alabama hunting lodge where adventure and story meet.

If you’ve ever searched for the best quail hunts in Alabama, or longed for a place where the pace slows and the stories deepen, this conversation is for you.

Visit https://www.turkeycreekoutdoors.com

Email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com

In this reflective episode, Bryan and Brad sit back down after their conversation with Kevin Burrell, author of Considering Sparrows, to linger a little longer in the world of birds, beauty, and attention.

From the everyday entertainment of backyard bird feeders to the surge of birding during COVID, they explore how these small, winged moments invite us to notice something deeper. Bryan shares how even a simple sighting can offer a glimpse into the Creator’s design, while Brad recalls a memorable duck hunt in the rice fields of Arkansas—rich with species, history, and the echoes of early birders who once hunted as their only means of close observation.

The conversation drifts offshore as Bryan tells the story of spotting a Magnificent Frigatebird in the Caribbean—a “lifer” moment made possible with a little help from the Merlin app and a downloaded regional guide.

Along the way, Brad and Bryan reflect on birding as a mindful practice—one that slows us down, pulls us into the present, and gently shifts our focus away from ourselves. Whether it’s spotting birds along the roadside in winter when the trees are bare or giving full attention to a fleeting moment of movement, they consider how this often-overlooked hobby can be both restful and eye-opening.

They also celebrate the encouraging return of bald eagles to their region—something rarely seen in their younger years, but now a shared joy they get to experience with their children.

Rooted in their conversation with Kevin, the episode weaves together nature’s metaphors and spiritual insight—from the persistence of a kingfisher to the care God shows even to sparrows—reminding us that time outdoors can lead us not just to observation, but to worship.

In a world that keeps our eyes down, birding invites us to look up—and in doing so, draws us out of ourselves and back into wonder.

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, Bryan and Brad explore the rich connection between birdwatching and the Book of Philippians, inspired by a recent conversation with author Kevin and his beautifully illustrated new book on birds and faith.

We had a wonderful discussion about backyard bird feeders — complete with mischievous squirrels, bold woodpeckers, and hovering hummingbirds — unfolds into a thoughtful reflection on how observing birds invites us to slow down, pay attention, and rediscover wonder.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, birding surged in popularity as people searched for meaningful outdoor hobbies. Bryan and Brad reflect on that cultural moment and share their own birdwatching experiences, from spotting winter bald eagles to studying the vibrant detail of pintail drakes and hen mallards.

These encounters remind them that birding is more than a hobby for retirees; it is a mindful practice that pulls attention away from self and toward the Creator.

Drawing from themes in Philippians and Kevin’s bird-centered reflections, Bryan and Brad discuss how creation points beyond itself. The persistence of a kingfisher, the care of sparrows, and the elegance of a soaring eagle become living metaphors of provision, humility, endurance, and joy.

As always, The Storied Outdoors sits somewhere between Lewis and Tolkien and Lewis and Clark — finding clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. This episode invites listeners to step outside, lift their eyes, and rediscover worship in the wild.

Visit https://www.ornitheology.com/about

Purchase his book Here

In this episode, Bryan and Brad return to the fire to stoke the embers of “Maybe Today, Granddad,” rekindling the flame of spring mornings spent chasing longbeards with a century-old shotgun and a heart full of memory.

They sift through the smoke of missed shots and close calls, turning over the coals of legacy, brotherhood, and belonging. What does it mean to carry a grandfather’s gun into the dark? Can a story be inherited through pursuit rather than proximity?

With warmth, honesty, and a few hard-earned laughs, they rekindle the fire of conversation, reflecting on turkey hunting, patience, public land lessons, and the quiet ache of stepping into a story you didn’t grow up in but somehow feel invited to continue.

Pull up a chair. The fire’s still burning.

In this reflective episode of The Storied Outdoors, Brad walks into the spring woods carrying more than a shotgun — he carries memory, longing, and the quiet hope of stepping into a story he never inherited. With his grandfather’s century-old gun in hand and the dawn breaking over the Mobile Delta, he recounts a season of near misses, unexpected lessons, and the slow shaping of a woodsman’s heart.

Through owl calls in the dark, conversations with his brother, and encounters that range from humorous to humbling, this story explores what it means to receive legacy not only through family, but through pursuit. It’s a meditation on patience, belonging, and the sacred work of showing up, whether or not a longbeard ever hits the ground.

For anyone who has felt the pull of wild places, wondered about the stories that formed them, or sensed that inheritance sometimes arrives from behind rather than ahead, this episode is an invitation to listen for the promise in the dawn.

Bryan, Brad, and Chase sit down to stoke the embers from Saltwater and Sharks, reflecting on fear, wonder, and faith in the deep. Together they take a deeper look at the stories, Scripture, and experiences behind the essay—exploring how God meets us in chaos and invites us back into the water with trust.

Email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.conm

“There is, one knows not what sweet mystery about this sea, whose gently awful stirrings seem to speak of some hidden soul beneath. The same waves wash the moles of the new-built California towns, but yesterday planted by the recentest race of men, and lave the faded but still gorgeous skirts of Asian lands older than Abraham.”

– Herman Melville, Moby-Dick, Chapter 58

What do sharks, saltwater, and the sea teach us about fear, wonder, and faith?

In this wonderfully reflective episode of The Storied Outdoors, Dr. Bowers traces a lifelong relationship with the ocean from childhood awe in the Caribbean, to fear sharpened by real danger, to a hard-won return to wonder.

Along the way, dolphins dance, sharks surface, reefs shimmer, and Scripture speaks. Drawing on personal stories, biblical imagery, and the ancient human fear of the deep, this episode explores why the sea has always symbolized chaos and why God repeatedly meets His people there.

From Newport Beach to Grand Cayman, from Jonah to Revelation, this episode wrestles with the tension between beauty and danger, awe and fear, chaos and hope. It’s a meditation on the ocean as both mirror and metaphor: reflecting a broken world groaning for redemption, and pointing us toward the God who still speaks peace over the waters.

This is a story about getting back in the water—not because the sea is safe, but because God is faithful.

Brad and Bryan sit down to reflect on their recent meeting with Saddleback Leather founder, Dave Munson — a man whose business acumen is matched only by his humility, generosity, and gospel-driven imagination. Like a modern-day Matt McPherson, Munson builds excellence not for the sake of product alone, but for the sake of people. His priorities run from employees to customers to orphans and single mothers through Saddleback’s nonprofit arm, Love 41.

Their conversation wanders the trail of Munson’s fascinating life — from living in tents and working out of a Toyota Tacoma, to navigating cartel-controlled roads, to trusting God in the face of uncertainty. Along the way, Brad and Bryan marvel at the quality and longevity of Saddleback’s Indiana Jones–inspired leather goods, the kind of items built to last a century and inherit a story of their own.

The episode even detours to Japan, where a colleague shares the gospel with playful clarity, and to the cold southern winter sweeping across the country. But at the heart of the discussion is a simple truth: faith, craftsmanship, and generosity can shape a company into something far more than the sum of its products.

In this episode, Brad and Bryan sit down with leather craftsman and adventurer Dave Munson—founder of Saddleback Leather—to explore the intersection of family, risk, craftsmanship, and faith. Munson’s story is one of unlikely beginnings, from selling bags on eBay during his youth ministry years to building a global leather-goods brand shaped by adventure, hardship, and deep conviction.

They trace the Munson family’s intentional approach to raising resilient kids—complete with tent living, travel mishaps, calculated risk, and a healthy respect for bravery vs. stupidity. Dave reflects on losing millions, run-ins with cartels, and stolen shipments, yet speaks of character formation and God’s providence with surprising joy.

Along the way, he makes a compelling case for Christian entrepreneurship that doesn’t wear a label but shines through excellence, generosity, and faithful storytelling. Together they discuss Martin Luther on craftsmanship, what it means to serve customers like actual people, and the surprising ways the gospel shows up—whether in conversations with Toyota executives or in the story of a beloved dog named Blue.

Rich with humor, vulnerability, travel tales, reflections on parenting and legacy, and a vision for living one’s faith in public, this conversation pushes listeners to see adventure not as escapism but as discipleship, and craftsmanship not as branding but as service.

Purchase Dave's Book "They'll fight over it when you're dead." Click Here

Check out the article about the tents where their family lives. These tents are not your normal tents but wildly adventurous and unique. Click Here

Visit and Support Love 41

Visit Saddleback Leather Co. website Here

Follow Saddleback on Instagram Here

In this episode of Stoking Embers, Bryan and Brad revisit their recent conversation with Tyler Sharp, Editor-in-Chief and Owner of Modern Huntsman. Recorded during Thanksgiving week 2025, a few days after the original interview, the pause gave time for the conversation to marinate, and just like spaghetti it was better after it sat a while and the ideas, stories, and vision Tyler brought to the table genuinely developed and jumped out. 

They unpack the tension and overlap between conservation and the roles of hunters and anglers, wrestling with what it means to “do good” while stewarding the very landscapes, waters, and wildlife we depend on. The discussion widens to explore the creative world as well: the resurgence of print, the future of storytelling, and the surprising influence of AI on culture, creativity, and even the environment through massive data infrastructure.

Throughout the conversation, Bryan and Brad recognize a growing alignment between Modern Huntsman and The Storied Outdoors—two efforts committed to elevating the narrative of outdoor pursuit, craftsmanship, and stewardship.

Finally, they revisit one of the standout moments from Tyler’s interview: an unforgettable encounter with an African lion which was easily one of the all-time great campfire stories ever shared on the show.

Whether you’re a creative, conservationist, hunter, angler, or simply captivated by adventure and good storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful look at why these pursuits matter and how they shape us.

Tyler Sharp, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modern Huntsman, joins us to share the unlikely journey behind one of the most influential voices in modern outdoor culture. Blending art, adventure, and conservation, Modern Huntsman reframes hunting and the outdoors through responsible storytelling, cultural awareness, and ethical stewardship.

Tyler reflects on global travels—including formative time in Africa—where he witnessed the complexities of conservation firsthand. He discusses how Modern Huntsman curates photographers, writers, Indigenous voices, and scientists to tell stories that emphasize ecology, ethics, and human connection over trophies or sensationalism.

We also explore the realities of building an independent publication, navigating business pressures and editorial integrity, and how storytelling shapes conservation, culture, and the way we engage with wild places.

Whether you’re a hunter, creative, conservationist, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, this conversation invites you to slow down, look deeper, and consider why stories matter.

Ep. 164. Stoking Embers: Dr. Matt Lewis, Redeye Bass and some regrets

On this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Dr. Matthew Lewis—fisheries scientist, writer, and one of the leading voices in Southern fly fishing.

Matt takes us deep into the waters of Alabama as we explore his newest book, Alabama’s Best Fly Fishing: Complete Guide to the State's Best Fly Fishing. From childhood adventures in Geneva to his surprising career shift from human genetics to native fish conservation, Matt shares the stories, science, and soul behind Alabama’s most overlooked fisheries.

We talk redeye bass, small-stream magic, the craft of writing a guidebook, and the sacred responsibility of caring for wild places. Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone who simply loves the outdoors, this episode offers a rich look at the waters that shape the South—and the stories waiting in every riffle and bend.

Grab a cup of hot chocolate and cozy up by the fire for this episode of The Storied Outdoors as Brad Hill reads “Hidden Wonders,” a short story written by Dr. Bryan Gill. “Hidden Wonders” follows the Heatherford’s, a family whose plans were thwarted by an unexpected blizzard that grounded all southbound flights out of New York—including theirs. With limited options, they decide to drop in on their eccentric Uncle Doc for the holidays. While this was not their original plan for Christmas, it might just be the one they needed to restore their children’s fading Christmas spirit. We hope you enjoy this story and have a Merry Christmas!Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.

One of Bryan’s mentors, Calvin Miller once wrote, “Much of Christmas’ beauty is in its sameness. The same traditions. The same meals. The same songs. The same story. Yet each Christmas is a little different.” Just like your favorite Christmas movies and songs are played and replayed each year, we’re replaying four of our past Christmas story episodes as well as a brand new Christmas story for you this season. Play them while you’re driving to see family and friends, while you’re tying flies, or wrapping those last minute presents.

This story, written by Dr. Bryan Gill and read by Brad Hill, is brand new and entitled “Christmas Jubilee.” It’s a story about a young boy who spends the week of Christmas with his grandparents on Mobile Bay. While he’s there, he casts a net for shrimp, sets traps for crabs, and fishes for speckled trout from his grandparents’ pier. He also finds himself trying to help fix a feud between his Pawpaw and neighbor. He soon finds out that this feud is too big for him to fix by himself and without a Christmas miracle, his Christmas vacation on Mobile Bay as well as his Pawpaw’s friendship with his neighbor might be ruined.

We hope you enjoy this new story and some “sameness” during this Christmas miniseries. And from Brad and Bryan at the Storied Outdoors, Merry Christmas!

Support our effort by preordering a hat ⁠HERE⁠

Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for 20% of online and in store.

Questions or comments email thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com we would love to hear from you. 

Music Written and recorded by Brad Hill

“One Horse Open Sleigh” by Dr. Bryan Gill is inspired by the original lyrics of “Jingle Bells,” that read, “A day or two ago, I thought I'd take a ride And soon, Miss Fanny Bright Was seated by my side…” Bryan wrote this story about two little girls and a mahogany Clydesdale that loved nothing more than pulling a shiny red sleigh in the snow. The horse changes the lives of the little girls, but that’s not the only transformation that takes place. Enjoy this story that takes a peek into the fictional life of the iconic Christmas card image of a horse-drawn sleigh. Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.

The Christmas Pageant (A Christmas Story) by Dr. Bryan Gill is the story of a sweet family trying to figure out how to navigate the holidays after a tragic accident that took their mother and left their son disabled. After a resurgence of the town’s Christmas Pageant that reunites a town, this family finds a way to redeem their sadness with new Christmas traditions. We hope you enjoy this Christmas episode written by Dr. Bryan Gill and read by Brad Hill. Intro music is also presented by Brad Hill.Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.

The Fox and the Fawn, by Dr. Bryan Gill, is a whimsical story about a little girl and her father’s never-ending love for her. Brad Hill masterfully reads this story and makes the characters come alive. We hope you’ll enjoy this heartwarming Christmas story, The Fox and the Fawn.

Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in-store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure.

We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.

Season 11 Reflections, Christmas Stories, and Adventures | The Storied Outdoors Podcast

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s hard to believe just how full this year has been. In this special episode, Bryan and Brad settle into the regal lodge at Turkey Creek near Jasper, Alabama, surrounded by towering Alabama whitetail bucks and other unforgettable taxidermy, to look back on the highlights of Season 11 of The Storied Outdoors.

From cooking wild game with Jeremiah Doughty of Field to Plate, to epic bear hunts and conservation conversations with Dr. Jenkins of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, to the deeply inspiring story of Dr. Rachael Hagues and the founding of the Girls School in Tanzania, the guys revisit the moments that made this season unforgettable.

With Christmas just around the corner, Bryan and Brad also preview upcoming Christmas week stories, tease future guests still to come this season, and share powerful reflections from their recent mission trips to Central America and the Dominican Republic. Along the way, Brad recounts a harrowing (and humorous) customs experience—navigating the process with the shrewdness of a snake and the innocence of a dove—and both hosts reflect on the lessons learned through travel, service, and time spent abroad.

If you’re new to The Storied Outdoors Podcast, this episode is a perfect place to jump in. We hope these Christmas-week stories invite you into wonder, reflection, and a Merry Christmas.

Finally, thank you. Your continued support—especially through reviews and ratings—means more to us than you know. These small acts make a big difference in helping the podcast grow, and we are deeply grateful.

We’d love to hear from you.📧 Email us: thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com

Bryan and Brad gather around the figurative campfire to reignite the warmth and wonder of their recent conversation with Dr. Rachael Hagues—a remarkable scholar, adventurer, and cherished friend of The Storied Outdoors. In this reflective episode, the guys look back with awe at Rachael’s extraordinary work in Tanzania, where she helped launch a transformative girls’ school that continues to shape lives and empower communities. Her vision, perseverance, and faith-driven courage shine through every part of her story.

They also revisit her spontaneous, grit-filled decision to climb Mount Kilimanjaro—a summit she tackled with little preparation but an abundance of heart. Her journey up Africa’s highest peak becomes a backdrop for deeper reflection on resilience, calling, and the unexpected adventures that shape who we become.

So pull up a chair, lean in, and enjoy this fireside-style debrief as Bryan and Brad reflect on the lessons, inspiration, and laughter shared with an extraordinary woman who continues to make a lasting impact.

⸻

If The Storied Outdoors has inspired you, here are a few meaningful ways to help the podcast grow and reach more storytellers, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts:

• Subscribe & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite listening platform.

• Leave a Rating & Review—even a short review helps new listeners discover the show.

• Share an Episode with a friend who loves the outdoors, storytelling, or faith-driven adventure.

• Join the Community by following us on social media and visiting our website for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and new episodes.

These small actions go a long way in helping more people find The Storied Outdoors and join the journey.

Join us as Dr. Rachel Hagues shares the powerful story behind Tumaini Jipya Girls’ School in Tanzania—nearly twenty years of research, partnership, prayer, and perseverance. From community-led vision to opening day, her journey blends faith, justice, and education. Rachel also reflects on her Kilimanjaro climb and how wilderness moments shape the stories God is writing in our lives.

Ep. 160: Stoking Embers: More Than a Hunt: The Heart and Hospitality of FowlCo Outfitters

The guys sit down to stir up and stoke he embers of the conversation with Josh Teff from FowlCo Outfitters. The level of hospitality they employ at Fowlco is inspiring and a big part of our conversation. We discuss the importance of knowing people's names. Reminisce about guide experiences and how a guide who understands hospitality really enhances your experience.

Episode Show Notes — FowlCo Outfitters: World-Class Waterfowl Hunting & Hospitality

Today on The Storied Outdoors, we welcome the team from FowlCo Outfitters—purveyors of world-class outdoor recreation and hospitality. Based in Oklahoma, FowlCo has become one of the most respected names in waterfowl hunting, blending premier guided experiences with unmatched southern hospitality.

Founders Josh Teff and John David Blagg join us to share how FowlCo grew from a shared passion for the outdoors, a commitment to meaningful relationships, and a deep reverence for the Creator’s handiwork. With more than 100 years of combined guiding experience, the FowlCo staff has crafted an environment where guests don’t just hunt—they feel at home, become part of the family, and take stories with them that last a lifetime.

From crisp sunrise hunts and chef-prepared meals to their lodge’s signature Speakeasy and fire-pit gatherings, FowlCo’s blend of excellence and authenticity has shaped countless unforgettable adventures.

How FowlCo’s philosophy emphasizes connection—to God, nature, and people—and how this vision reshaped their entire outfitting experience.
“Here’s the path, all you have to do is walk down it.” —Josh Teff

Returning guests often feel more like family. Josh and John David share stories of genuine friendships formed through years of hunting together.
“Putting emphasis on people is THE most important thing we can do.”

How chef-inspired meals, lodge design, atmosphere, and intentional spaces—like the Speakeasy and fire-pit—help create “moments” that deepen the experience.

The spiritual and emotional dimension of pursuing wild game, and how awe, gratitude, and wonder shape their personal walk with God.
“I go from wanting to go… to I get to go.”

Unforgettable stories, hard-earned wisdom, and memorable mishaps—including a fully sunk tractor and an icy sprint to flag down a passing boat.

What moments and memories always resurface when the guides sit down together after a long season.

FowlCo is a premier waterfowl outfitter located in Oklahoma, offering guided duck and goose hunts with a focus on hospitality, faith, and unforgettable experiences. From culinary excellence to curated lodge environments, FowlCo has become a destination where guests return year after year—not just to hunt, but to belong.

In This Episode We Discuss: Hunting as Connection, Not Just Bag Limits• Why Relationships Are the Heart of FowlCo• Hospitality as Storytelling• Experiencing the Creator Through the Outdoors• Lessons From a Century of Guiding• The Stories the Crew Tells Around the Fire About FowlCo Outfitters

Stoking Embers | Reflections on Our Conversation with Dr. Chris Jenkins

In this Stoking Embers episode, we look back on our conversation with Dr. Chris Jenkins—conservationist, biologist, hunter, and CEO of The Orianne Society. Our time with Chris lingered long after recording, stirring reflections on the connection between wild landscapes, the creatures that inhabit them, and the stories that shape us.

We talk about the significance of tending to the wild places that form our identity, the beauty in paying attention to the overlooked things of creation, and how spending time outdoors shapes the soul. And yes—we revisit a few of Chris’s epicbear hunting stories from the Appalachian Mountains and the backcountry of Idaho, and what those moments taught us about courage, humility, and wonder.

• The Orianne Society — Conservation of reptiles & amphibians:
  https://www.oriannesociety.org

• Backcountry Hunters & Anglers — Public lands & waters conservation:
  https://www.backcountryhunters.org

• Snake Talk with Dr. Chris Jenkins (Podcast):
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/snake-talk/id1501749931

Stoking Embers is our space to slow down, reflect, and revisit the conversations that continue to shape us—long after the microphones are off.

Learn more about Chris and the work mentioned in this reflection:

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chris Jenkins—conservationist, biologist, storyteller of the wild, and CEO of The Orianne Society, a nonprofit working to conserve reptiles and amphibians across the Southeast. Chris also serves on the Board of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, where he advocates for protecting wild places and public lands for future generations.

From tracking Eastern Indigo Snakes through longleaf pine forests to bear hunts in the Appalachian backcountry and the rugged mountains of Idaho, Chris shares the stories, landscapes, and defining experiences that have shaped his life’s work.

What We Discuss

* Chris’s childhood influences and the call toward conservation

* The **Nantahala Mountains** and their lasting effect on his identity

* Why reptiles and amphibians matter—and what they tell us about ecosystem health

* Life in the field 150+ days a year and the clarity that comes with immersion

* Reconciling science and wonder, data and awe

* How hunting and biology can coexist in harmony

* Memorable bear hunts, close calls, and lessons learned in the wild

* The responsibility and joy of stewarding wild places

About Our Guest

Dr. Chris Jenkins is the CEO of The Orianne Society and a board member of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. His work focuses on habitat restoration, species conservation, and thoughtful connection to the landscapes that shape our stories.

Learn more about The Orianne Society:

(https://www.oriannesociety.org)

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:

(https://www.backcountryhunters.org)

Connect with The Storied Outdoors

Subscribe & follow the show:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram

Show Notes — Stoking Embers with Jeremiah Doughty

In this episode, we introduce a new format on The Storied Outdoors that we’re calling “Stoking Embers.” The name, sparked during a brainstorm with our friend Hank Hershey, captures what we’ve always aimed to do—find clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. These episodes are our chance to slow down, sit with what we heard in the previous conversation, and let the embers of those stories warm us just a little longer.

This week, Bryan and Brad sit down after a rich and mouthwatering conversation with Jeremiah Doughty of From Field to Plate. Jeremiah is a wild game chef, hunter, and storyteller who shared not only his passion for ethical and intentional hunting, but also a long list of recipes that had us hungry before the episode wrapped.

In this Stoking Embers reflection, we talk about:

• The recipes and cooking methods Jeremiah shared during the interview

• How wild game preparation has shaped our own tables and memories

• The connection between food, story, and gratitude

• Why taking time to reflect after a good conversation helps the story settle deeper

We also share a few of our own favorite wild game dishes—and would love to hear yours.

We want these Stoking Embers episodes to be conversations with you, not just for you.
What resonated?
What challenged you?
What sparked something deeper?

Send us a message and let us know.

We’re always looking to connect with people whose lives reflect wonder, courage, curiosity, and love for the outdoors.
If someone came to mind, introduce us.

Thanks for listening, and for tending the fire with us.
Keep your eyes open.
Your stories are shaping you.
Let’s pay attention together.

What Stood Out to You? Know Someone With a Story Worth Sharing?

Episode Title: From Field to Plate with Jeremiah Doughty

“The real trophy is the one you put on your plate.”

Show Notes:
In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Jeremiah Doughty—wild game chef, hunter, and founder of From Field to Plate. After developing a beef allergy, Jeremiah turned fully to wild game and discovered more than a new way to feed his family—he found a calling. Through his hands-on schools, writing, and his podcast Tasting Wild, Jeremiah teaches others to harvest, butcher, and cook their own food, reminding us that the true trophy isn’t on the wall—it’s the meal shared at the table.

We talk about:

• Jeremiah’s roots in Southern California and how his love for dove hunting sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors.

• The journey from beef allergy to a field-to-table mission.

• What it really means when he says, “The real trophy is the one you put on your plate.”

• How his 4-day hunting, butchering, and cooking school in South Texas transforms the way people view food and faith.

• Lessons from his devotional Game & Grace—how hunting reveals deeper truths about gratitude, stewardship, and grace.

This conversation explores the intersection of faith, food, and the wild. Jeremiah reminds us that honoring the hunt and giving thanks for every harvest can bring us closer to creation—and the Creator.

Connect with Jeremiah Doughty:

• Website & Links: linktr.ee/fromfieldtoplate

• Instagram: @fromfieldtoplate

Listen & Subscribe:
Find more episodes of The Storied Outdoors wherever you listen to podcasts.

Season 11 kicks off with new adventures from Jekyll Island to the White River, a fresh series called Stoking Embers, and big news ahead. Join Brad Hill and Bryan Gill for stories of faith, adventure, and reflection.

In this heartfelt season finale of The Storied Outdoors, Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on the remarkable guests and memorable essays that made Season Ten so special. From deep conversations to inspiring stories, they revisit the moments that left a lasting impact—and share what they’ve learned along the way.

In classic Storied Outdoors fashion, this episode also takes a few scenic detours. Bryan shares about a recent family trip to Jekyll Island, GA, and a peaceful birding outing with friend Damian Bankhead. The two co-hosts also catch up on life, laughter, and what’s on the horizon for the podcast.

Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about the future of The Storied Outdoors, and a quick reminder—only 7 more hat preorders needed to bring the next batch to life!

This episode is both a reflective snapshot of a full season and a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the friendship that fuels the storytelling.

Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving episode, co-host Bryan Gill shares a reflective and emotional story of guiding his teenage son through his first deer hunt. A Father’s Charge is more than just an account of a hunting trip—it's a meditation on legacy, manhood, reverence for life, and the sacred responsibility of fathers to lead with both courage and tenderness.

Set in the quiet, golden light of a frosty Alabama morning, Bryan recounts the moments of anticipation, a whispered prayer, and the irreversible stillness that follows a successful shot. With vivid storytelling and honest emotion, this episode explores the tension and beauty of passing on a tradition that shapes character and invites young men into a deeper awareness of their place in creation.

In This Episode:

• The emotional weight of a first hunt

• The sacred nature of taking life

• How the outdoors can be a space for spiritual formation

• What it means to be a father raising a son

• Reflections on legacy, reverence, and responsibility

Whether you're a hunter, a parent, or simply someone drawn to stories that matter, this episode offers something meaningful to hold on to.

🔗 Links & Resources:
Website: thestoriedoutdoors.com
Watch on YouTube: The Storied Outdoors Channel
Follow us on Instagram: @thestoriedoutdoors

Legacy, Leadership & the Moose Story – A Conversation with Dr. Jay Wolf

Episode Description:Dr. Jay Wolf served as Pastor of First Baptist Montgomery for nearly 30 years and now continues his Kingdom work as Pastor Emeritus. In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Dr. Wolf to talk about life, legacy, leadership, and a few unforgettable stories—like how the amazing story of his daughter-in-law's healing makes his epic Moose Hunt look like a mouse.

Raised as the son of a cowboy in Texas, Dr. Wolf shares how his roots shaped his faith and calling. From his first deer to his philosophy of family discipleship—“If you hunt with your son, you won’t have to hunt for your sons”—Jay emphasizes the deep importance of relationships and outdoor moments that form lasting bonds.

We also explore his global mission work, his passion for Christ-centered service, and what’s next as he continues supporting ministries like Hope Heals, led by his son and daughter-in-law.

This is a rich, meaningful, and often hilarious conversation with a man who embodies what it means to Fix Your Eyes on Jesus.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

• Growing up cowboy-style in Texas

• The first deer hunting story

• An Epic Moose Story

• Family, discipleship, and outdoor ministry

• His current mission work and future adventures

🔑 Quote of the Episode:“Relationship is the meat and marrow of life.”

In this soul-stirring episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Jim Barger Jr.—a nationally recognized trial lawyer, acclaimed author, environmental advocate, and College Professor. But his résumé only scratches the surface of a man whose life is deeply rooted in story, place, and purpose.

From his childhood on the coastal shores of St. Simons Island, Georgia, to the literary halls of Ole Miss, Jim’s journey weaves through courtroom battles, conservation efforts, and deeply personal revelations. You may know him from his essays in The Bitter Southerner or as co-author of Jimmy Carter: Rivers & Dreams, a beautiful exploration of Carter’s lesser-known love for fly fishing.

But in this episode, Jim opens up about the deeper currents shaping his life—faith, family, and finding peace in a complicated world.

🎣 What shaped his love for the outdoors?🌿 Why did he move his family back to the Georgia coast—and what does he hope to pass on to his sons?📖 What sparked the creation of “Rivers and Dreams,” and how did that journey transform him?🙏 What does it mean to live with “two great loves”—a love for Jesus, and for the person standing right in front of you?

Jim doesn’t just talk about the outdoors—he lives out a net-positive lifestyle, using his platform to fight for environmental preservation and cultivate generational legacy.

This episode is a quiet invitation to rethink what matters most. And somewhere between the salt marsh and the written word, you'll discover a story about returning—both to a physical place and to a deeper sense of calling.

Don’t miss this episode—whether you’re a reader, a father, a fisherman, or someone just searching for deeper clarity in your own story, there’s something here for you.

Hit play, and let the tide of Jim Barger Jr.’s story carry you to places you didn’t expect to go.

Purchase “Jimmy Carter: Rivers and Dreams” HERE, use promo Code StoriedOutdoors at checkout to save some money.

“The deer hunter habitually watches the next bend; the duck hunter watches the skyline; the bird hunter watches the dog; the non-hunter does not watch.”— Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac, 1949

A Feather For My Hat – Pheasant Hunting, Heritage, and Outdoor Legacy

In this episode of *The Storied Outdoors*, we take you deep into the heart of South Dakota’s upland fields for an unforgettable pheasant hunting experience. More than just a sport, this journey is about heritage, camaraderie, and the enduring traditions passed down through generations.

From childhood memories of flipping through hunting magazines in a barbershop to the thrill of stepping into the golden switchgrass fields with shotgun in hand, Brad shares a reflective and nostalgic story of his long-awaited pheasant hunt. Alongside seasoned sportsmen and skilled bird dogs, he discovers the profound connection between hunting, storytelling, and legacy.

**Key Topics Covered:**

✅ The thrill and tradition of pheasant hunting in South Dakota

✅ How hunting fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and conservation

✅ The history and beauty of the ring-necked pheasant in North America

✅ The importance of sportsmanship, ethics, and respect for the land

✅ The bond between hunters and their dogs in the pursuit of upland game

✅ Reflections on outdoor heritage, family traditions, and passing down a legacy

**Why Listen?**

Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who appreciates storytelling rooted in adventure, this episode will resonate with you. We explore not just the sport, but the values and lessons it instills—honoring the past while looking forward to future generations of hunters and conservationists.

**Share Your Story!**

Have you ever had a hunting experience that connected you to your heritage? We’d love to hear about it! Tag us on Instagram @TheStoriedOutdoors and share your story with our growing community of outdoor storytellers.

#PheasantHunting #UplandHunting #HuntingTraditions #TheStoriedOutdoors #OutdoorHeritage #HuntingPodcast #Conservation #SouthDakotaHunting

In this episode, we’re joined by Damion Bankhead, a wildlife and nature portrait photographer based in Birmingham, AL, whose work goes beyond simply capturing images—it’s about revealing the beauty both around us and within us. Damion’s journey into photography started young, seeing the world in pictures before he even had a camera in hand. His passion took a defining turn on a simple hike when he captured a Carolina wren in full song—a moment that connected him to the birding community and set him on the path to having his work published in Amateur Photographer and Alabama the Beautiful.

With a background spanning fitness, the Army, and law enforcement, Damion has always been drawn to storytelling, and through his lens, he aims to help people see themselves and the world with fresh eyes. Today, we’ll dive into his adventures, his approach to natural portraiture, and the moments that have shaped his creative journey.

We sit down with wildlife and nature photographer Damion to explore the journey that led him behind the lens. From an early love of photography and art to his time as a musician and personal trainer and even his service in the military and law enforcement, Damion’s path has been anything but ordinary.

We discuss how his experiences have shaped his ability to see beauty in the world, even after witnessing its darkest moments. He shares the deeper meaning behind his philosophy, “It’s all God’s art, and I just capture it,” and how faith plays a role in his creative process. And, since we like to think of this podcast as a digital campfire, we ask Damion to share one of his go-to stories—one that embodies his adventurous spirit and passion for the outdoors.

Finally, we look ahead to what’s next for Damion as he continues his journey of capturing the natural world through his lens. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

Visit Damion’s Website HERE

Follow Damion on Instagram HERE

Support Damion’s Work by visiting his store HERE

The Storied Outdoors with Aaron Scheer

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Aaron Scheer, Executive Director of Centershot Ministries. As an expert bowhunter and passionate archery advocate, Aaron has dedicated his life to using the sport as a tool for faith-based outreach. Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Aaron leads Centershot Ministries, a program that equips churches and communities to engage with archery while sharing the gospel. His family boasts three generations of devoted elk hunters, faithfully participating in Colorado elk season year after year.

• A Life Shaped by the Outdoors: Aaron shares powerful lessons from his upbringing on a Colorado ranch, where his father instilled wisdom about hard work, resilience, and the natural cycle of life.

  • Quote from Aaron: "The outside is good for the inside."

  • Wisdom from Matt McPherson: "Boys do what they want to do; men do what they should do."

• Archery as a Calling: We explore Aaron’s journey into bowhunting and professional archery. He discusses the discipline, patience, and life lessons archery has taught him.

  • Key Takeaway: "Aim with grace. Judge targets, not people."

• Elite Partnerships – Mathews Archery: Aaron shares his journey with Mathews Archery, his experiences competing at a professional level, and insights into the world of competitive archery.

• Centershot Ministries – Archery Meets Faith: Discover how Centershot Ministries merges archery with Christian outreach, using the sport as a powerful metaphor to share the gospel.

• Epic Backcountry Adventures: Aaron recounts a thrilling mountain lion encounter and other unforgettable moments from his years in the wilderness.

• What’s Next for Aaron: From upcoming shooting competitions to one of the world’s largest archery events in Kentucky, Aaron discusses what’s on the horizon.

This episode is packed with inspiration, adventure, and wisdom for bowhunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection between faith and the outdoors. Whether you're passionate about archery or just love a good hunting story, you won't want to miss this conversation with Aaron Scheer.

Want to be part of this mission? Visit Centershot.org to learn more about how you can get involved, donate, or start an archery ministry in your community.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Storied Outdoors, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow hunters, archers, and outdoor enthusiasts!

Episode Highlights: Why You Should Listen: Support Centershot Ministries:

Join us for an exciting return conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast! Ben is an avid outdoorsman, storyteller, and the driving force behind Dorsal Outdoors. Known for his passion for fly fishing, hunting, conservation, and capturing outdoor adventures through storytelling, Ben is truly our kind of people.

In this episode, we dive deep into Ben’s latest project—a powerful new YouTube series from Dorsal Outdoors called Born Retriever. This six-part series follows Ben’s journey as he trains his family Labrador, Riggins, from couch potato to fully-trained duck and upland hunting dog. Ben shares the challenges, triumphs, and valuable life lessons that come with training a dog for hunting, while also exploring the bond between hunter and retriever.

We discuss the importance of documenting outdoor stories, behind-the-scenes moments from the Born Retriever series, and why this series is so meaningful to Ben. He opens up about the reflection process in Part 6 of the series, the lost opportunities with Riggins that he sought to redeem, and what he’s learned from the experience. Ben also shares the dream projects Dorsal Outdoors is working on next and how listeners can support their mission to tell more outdoor stories.

Whether you’re a hunter, dog lover, or simply passionate about outdoor adventure, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Grab your favorite camp chair, sit back, and join us for an engaging conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast.

Connect with Dorsal Outdoors on their Website⁠ Here⁠

Subscribe to their YouTube Channel ⁠Here ⁠

Follow Dorsal on Instagram ⁠Here ⁠

Ep 145: Trent Ellis: Social Media Comedian/ Redneck Recorder

Title: Hunting, Humor, and Storytelling with Trent Ellis

Summary:Welcome back to The Storied Outdoors, where we find clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. In this episode, we sit down with Trent Ellis—a husband, father, outdoorsman, and social media personality known for blending hunting and humor across platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

Trent shares his journey into the outdoors, his creative process for content creation, and how he balances faith, family, and his growing online presence. We explore the intersection of comedy and conservation, the challenges of being a hunting influencer, and what’s next for his brand. Whether you’re passionate about hunting, storytelling, faith, or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insight and entertainment.

🔥 Topics Covered:✅ Trent’s background and how hunting became a cornerstone of his life✅ Balancing family life with content creation✅ The inspiration behind his hunting and comedy videos✅ The creative process behind his viral content✅ Challenges of being a hunting influencer and handling criticism✅ The future of his brand and upcoming adventures.

🎧 Listen Now on: [Spotify] | [Apple Podcasts] | [YouTube]

🔗 Connect with Trent:📱 Follow Trent on

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

#Hunting #Comedy #Storytelling #Faith #TheStoriedOutdoors

In this episode, we are joined by Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois—an acclaimed chef, storyteller, and outdoorsman whose passion for Southern cuisine is matched only by his love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Chef Jean-Paul brings a deep appreciation for food, tradition, and the stories that connect us, from his roots in Louisiana to cooking across the country.

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois, a man whose love for the outdoors is as rich and deeply rooted as his passion for Southern cuisine. We start by exploring his upbringing in Louisiana, where his connection to the land and water first took hold. Jean-Paul remembers the moments of broken down boats and times in the duck blind that sparked his love for the outdoors, setting the stage for a life intertwined with food, tradition, and adventure.

We then dive into his journey toward a career in the culinary arts—how he found his way into the kitchen and the influences that shaped him as a chef. Much like a musician is molded by the songs they learn and the artists they admire, Jean-Paul reflects on the chefs, experiences, and flavors that have left a lasting mark on his cooking. From kitchens from New York City, all the way to France, to time spent in the field and on the water, he shares how his love for hunting and fishing has found its way back into his career and personal life.

But beyond the food and the wild places, Jean-Paul opens up about something even more profound. He recently shared a moment on Instagram—his baptism in the ocean. We talk about what led him to that powerful decision, what he remembers about that day, and the significance of experiencing such a life-changing moment.

We discuss faith, food, and the pursuit of a life well-seasoned with stories and adventure. You won’t want to miss this one.

Visit Jean'-Paul’s website: www.jeanpaulbourgeois.com

Watch Duck Camp Dinners presented by Meat Eater: Watch Here

In this action-packed episode of The Storied Outdoors, Brad and Bryan reunite with some unforgettable past guests for an adventure that will go down in the record books. Joining them are Captain Blake Walters, aka the Fairhope Fly Guy, along with Dr. Hank Hershey and Dr. Hugh Cheek, as they relive a truly epic day of fly fishing for redfish.

From poling skiffs through glassy marsh waters to heart-pounding moments of fish on (and fish lost), this episode captures the thrill, camaraderie, and storytelling that make time on the water so special. We dive into Bryan’s milestone moment—landing his very first saltwater fish on the fly—along with the inevitable tales of the ones that got away.

With plenty of laughs, unforgettable memories, and a celebration of the great outdoors, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love a good fishing tale, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy the ride!

🎣🐟 Keywords: Fly fishing, redfish, saltwater fly fishing, outdoor adventure, fishing podcast, Gulf Coast fishing, poling skiff, fishing stories, The Storied Outdoors, Captain Blake Walters, Fairhope Fly Guy.

Season 10 Premiere: A Reunion of Storytellers, Adventure, and Reflection

The Storied Outdoors podcast kicks off its tenth season with an unforgettable gathering of past guests and friends, celebrating 10 seasons of storytelling, adventure, and the pursuit of meaning in the great outdoors. Hosts Brad Hill and Bryan Gill are joined in person by Dr. Hank Hershey, Dr. Hugh Cheek, and Mobile-area fishing guide Blake Walters for a fireside-style conversation filled with wild tales, deep reflections, and a look ahead at what’s to come.

We dive into the heart of The Storied Outdoors—why we tell these stories and the lasting impact they carry. Hugh shares a gripping account of floating through Kentucky’s wild waters, finding himself lying in the iconic bluegrass, staring up at the vast sky, and contemplating life’s bigger picture.

As we set the stage for an exciting new season, we drop hints about upcoming episodes that promise even more adventure, wisdom, and insight. Join us as we celebrate our 10th season of finding clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us.

Listen now and be part of the journey! 🎧🏕️🎣

Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on an incredible Season 9 of The Storied Outdoors! Like trying to pick a favorite child, they highlight some of the most memorable interviews—conversations with Kansas Sartin and the team at Pakmule, Courtney Ellis, Leonce Crump, and many more inspiring guests. This season has been a journey of fresh perspectives and familiar voices, all coming together to share stories that shape us.

🚨 Hat Preorder Update! 🚨 We’re just 25 hats away from fulfilling our preorder! Be part of the adventure by grabbing a Storied Outdoors hat and helping us continue telling these stories. DM us on Instagram or visit our website to claim yours today!

Thank you for being part of The Storied Outdoors community! We hope these stories inspire and challenge you to write your own and step into new adventures. If you’ve enjoyed this season, please leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform—it truly helps us keep sharing these incredible journeys. 🌿🎙️ #TheStoriedOutdoors #Podcast #OutdoorAdventure #Storytelling