In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Rob Mahaffey, who’s not only a fellow board member of the South Dakota Bowhunters Association but also a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation. We dive into the hot topic of Colorado’s Prop 127, a proposal to ban mountain lion hunting in the state. We break down what this bill means for wildlife management, predator control, and how it could affect everything from public safety to the overall health of the ecosystem if passed.

We also tackle an issue that's been on my mind a lot lately—hunter apathy. Rob and I discuss how hunters need to step up and play more offense rather than defense when it comes to conservation efforts and giving back to wildlife. We share ways that we, as hunters, can get more involved and make a lasting impact. This is a must-listen if you're passionate about hunting and conservation, and want to do your part to ensure the future of wildlife and the outdoor lifestyle we love.

In this episode of The Dreaded Archer Podcast, I’m joined by Lucas Koolstra, a certified hunting guide from South Dakota, to talk about the ins and outs of guiding hunters through some of the best hunting experiences in the Midwest.

Lucas shares his journey to becoming a guide, what it takes to thrive in the role, and some of his most memorable hunts in the field. We explore the unique challenges of hunting in South Dakota, from unpredictable weather to diverse terrain, and Lucas offers valuable tips for both beginners and seasoned hunters.

Tune in as we also dive into the ethics of guiding, advice for first-time clients, and how Lucas sees the future of hunting culture and outdoor guiding. This episode is packed with insight, advice, and stories from the wild!

On this episode of The Dreaded Archer Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Vance, the host of Bucks of America Podcast, for an engaging and insightful conversation about hunting, podcasting, and the role social media plays in shaping modern outdoor culture. Jeff is well-known for his passionate approach to hunting and his ability to share those experiences with a broad audience through his podcast and online presence.

We kick things off by diving into Jeff’s personal hunting journey, exploring how he got started and what has kept him deeply connected to the sport over the years. From his earliest hunts to his most memorable ones, Jeff shares stories that are both inspiring and relatable to hunters of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or someone just getting into the outdoors, Jeff's tales will remind you of why the hunt is more than just the pursuit of game—it's about tradition, camaraderie, and the love of the land.

Next, we explore the growing trend of cooking wild game, something that’s becoming increasingly popular among hunters who want to make the most of their harvest. Jeff walks us through some of his favorite recipes, offering tips for those who may be new to preparing wild game. From venison to elk, Jeff’s culinary insights will give you new ideas on how to take your game from the field to the table in delicious and meaningful ways.

As the conversation shifts, we talk about the art of outdoor podcasting. Jeff provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce engaging content that resonates with a passionate community. He shares how he balances his love for hunting with the demands of podcasting, from finding interesting guests to ensuring that each episode stays true to his values and mission. He also opens up about some of the memorable moments he’s had while recording, whether it’s an unexpected twist in a conversation or a funny mishap that only happens when you’re deep in the podcasting groove.

Finally, we tackle the subject of social media and its impact on the hunting world. Jeff gives his perspective on the rise of the “social media hunter,” discussing both the positives and the pitfalls of sharing hunting content online. From community building and education to the risk of over-commercialization and public scrutiny, Jeff talks about how hunters can stay authentic and true to themselves while navigating the often-tricky world of social platforms.

Throughout the episode, Jeff Vance brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for the outdoors, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in hunting, podcasting, or outdoor content creation. So, grab your bow or rifle, sit back, and enjoy this deep dive into the wild world of hunting with one of the best in the business.

In this compelling episode of the Dreaded Archer Podcast, Trey Reed sits down with Lathan Buckley, a passionate African American outdoor enthusiast and filmmaker, to discuss the intersection of culture and the outdoors. They delve deep into the growing presence of African Americans in the hunting community, and how representation matters in shaping the future of outdoor sports. Lathan shares his insights on breaking barriers, his journey into the outdoor industry, and how media and storytelling can reshape perceptions and inspire a new generation of hunters. They also tackle the impact of financial influence on hunting regulations and what it means for the average hunter. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the outdoors, hunting, and the power of diversity in the industry.

Join me on this exciting episode of the Dreaded Archer Podcast as I sit down with Wendy, a passionate hunter, skilled photographer, and outdoor adventurer from South Dakota. Wendy takes us through her journey into the outdoors, sharing what inspired her to pick up a bow and camera, and how she overcame the challenges faced by beginners in the hunting world.

We delve into some of Wendy’s most memorable hunting experiences, including the species she loves to hunt and the preparation that goes into each trip. Wendy also shares insights into her love for outdoor photography, revealing how she captures the wild beauty of nature and balances this art with the thrill of the hunt.

In this episode, Wendy recounts her time at the Total Archery Challenge, discussing the courses, challenges, and lessons she took away from the event. We also explore the growing presence of women in the hunting community, the impact they’re making, and the importance of mentorship and inspiration.

Finally, Wendy opens up about her views on conservation and ethical hunting practices, and shares her hopes for the future of the outdoor community. Plus, don’t miss the hilarious story of Wendy’s son and his entrepreneurial adventure selling deer jerky at school—a tale that’s sure to make you smile.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a photography enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good outdoor story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

Join us on the Dreaded Archer Podcast as we dive deep into the world of custom hunting gear with Jerry Grose, the mastermind behind Custom Gear Modifications (CGM). Discover the DIY spirit that drives CGM to create high-quality tree saddles and unique hunting accessories designed to fit your specific needs.

Whether you're looking for a personalized touch or innovative gear, CGM has you covered! Tune in to hear Jerry's journey, the challenges of building a business from scratch, and the passion for customization that sets CGM apart. Don't miss out on this exclusive interview packed with insights, inspiration, and the latest in saddle hunting innovations!

In this enlightening episode of the Dreaded Archer Podcast, we are joined by Shannon Thomas, the innovative co-founder of Classic Racks Co. (CRC). Shannon takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of 3D scanning, printing, and the art of preserving trophy animals.

We kick off the discussion with the inspiring story behind the founding of Classic Racks Co. Shannon shares how a casual conversation during a flight from Africa sparked the idea that led to the creation of CRC. Learn how the passion for hunting and the need to protect valuable trophies drove Shannon and his co-founder Garrett to explore and master advanced 3D technologies.

Next, we delve into the array of services CRC offers, from digital scanning and reverse engineering to 3D printing and bronze casting. Shannon provides insights into how these cutting-edge technologies have revolutionized the preservation and recreation of trophy animals, making them more durable and realistic than ever before.

Shannon also highlights some of the unique and notable projects CRC has undertaken across various industries, including collaborations with museums, artists, and the oil and gas sector. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of running a high-tech company in the niche market of trophy preservation and how CRC continues to innovate and expand its offerings.

Finally, we explore Shannon’s vision for the future of CRC and the potential growth of 3D technology in the outdoor industry. Shannon shares personal insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

Join us for this captivating episode as we uncover the intersection of hunting, technology, and artistry with Shannon Thomas. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a hunting aficionado, or someone curious about the future of trophy preservation, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the future of trophy preservation with Classic Racks Co

In this exciting episode of the Dreaded Archer Podcast, we are joined by two incredible guests: Nick Reed, a talented photographer/videographer and avid bowhunter, and Chris Myers, the dynamic founder and owner of Zulu Archery and Outdoors. Together, we dive deep into a range of topics that are reshaping the outdoor and archery industries.

First, we explore the importance of fitness in the outdoor industry, discussing how staying in peak physical condition enhances hunting and outdoor experiences. Nick and Chris share their personal fitness routines and offer valuable tips for staying fit and ready for the outdoors.

Next, we tackle the growth of African Americans in the archery industry. Our guests provide insightful perspectives on the increasing diversity in this field and share their experiences and challenges as African American professionals in archery and hunting.

The conversation then shifts to the marketing efforts within the archery and outdoor industries. Nick and Chris critique the current marketing strategies, highlighting areas where they fall short and suggesting innovative approaches to better engage and expand the audience.

Lastly, we entertain a fascinating discussion on how Nike, a giant in the sports apparel and footwear industry, could potentially revolutionize the outdoor industry. We speculate on the impact of their entry into this market and how it could elevate the visibility and appeal of archery and outdoor activities.

Join us for this engaging and thought-provoking episode as we blend fitness, diversity, and innovation with the passion for archery and the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid archer, a fitness enthusiast, or someone interested in the evolving landscape of the outdoor industry, this episode has something for you!