The HHAUSA Podcast

While it's bittersweet that our podcast is coming to an end with this episode, it's difficult to put into words how excited we are as an organization for what 2025 has in store.A formal partnership with Centershot Ministries and Centershot Blue will officially kick off our initiative to help plant 1,000 archery outposts across the US. These locations will provide a safe environment for Active Military, Veterans, Law Enforcement and First Responders to gather around the sport of archery. Outposts can be at an archery range, pro shop, school, church, park, or anywhere else that a group of local volunteers can host the participants. With a great curriculum in place and archery kits available for purchase through Genesis and Centershot, this program is transforming lives and communities one arrow at a time. HHAUSA's role will be to locate individuals wishing to start outposts and pointing them to Centershot leadership for the necessary training and onboarding process.Five years ago, our vision was for HHAUSA to become a nationwide nonprofit. While it took a different path than we expected, it has become a reality through this allegiance with Centershot. God's ways are always higher than ours!We will be hosting the four largest HHAUSA events in our history in 2025 with the schedule being released in December. If you haven't made the trip to Wisconsin yet, plan on adding that to your list of archery destinations in the New Year. We'd love to invite you into this community that has come together and continues to grow, providing a healthy outlet for our Service Members.I want to thank everyone who has been a part of The HHAUSA Podcast over the past three and half years. From our guests to our listeners and our editor Logan Chartrand of Whiz Bang Media, collectively we have made a difference in so many lives. While the mic will be going silent, you have my word that these life changing and life saving conversations will still be happening in the weeks, months, and years ahead as we continue to selflessly serve those who serve and protect us.May God bless you, God bless our Service Members, and God bless America!To stay updated on everything happening at HHAUSA, visit our website at hhausa.org, subscribe to our email list, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.For more information on Centershot Ministries and Centershot Blue, visit their websites at:https://centershot.org/https://centershotblue.org/For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

Growing up on the family farm out West, Kasey Bruce learned what work ethic was all about at an early age. That mentality would stick with him through high school and decades later as he served our country in the United States Navy. Meeting Aaron Scheer proved to be a divine encounter and would lead him to his new position with Centershot Ministries and Centershot Blue.Now a passionate archer, Bruce is using his servant heart to change lives through the sport of archery, literally around the world. Travelling from coast to coast here in the US and to Africa as well, he is seeing firsthand how transformational a bow and arrow can be. Whether it's in the younger generation as part of the JROTC program or seeing the smile on the face of a Veteran, First Responder, or Law Enforcement Officer through Centershot Blue, life change is happening with Scheer and Bruce leading the charge.I met Kasey a couple years ago at the Archery Trade Association Show in Indianapolis and connected again a month later at a private Centershot event in Florida. Our friendship quickly grew into a brotherhood built around faith and I am excited about what the future holds for our respective ministries. All I do know is that the sky is the limit and with leaders like Kasey investing in the lives of others, the HHAUSA Centershot connection is a pairing that is sure to have impact for years to come.To learn more about Centershot and Centershot Blue, visit their websites at:https://centershot.org/https://centershotblue.org/You can also reach Kasey directly at: kasey@centershotblue.orgFor more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

Growing up with a father who was a firefighter, young Mike Fox had no idea that he would one day be serving the very men that he looked up to as a child. After a few stops and starts in his teens, the Missouri native received some direction from the elder Fox when he mentioned going into ministry. Having never thought about it up to that point, his destiny was confirmed at a lunch with his own pastor to discuss his future.Sadly, Mike's father would tragically pass away before he had the chance to see his son on the pulpit at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Weston Wisconsin. But it was in his dad's hospital room during his final days that Mike was given a very clear direction as to who he would be serving.Archery became a passion for Mike as well and was the common thread that brought us together. A chance encounter with one of his coworkers at a showing of The Chosen in February of 2024 would lead me to my new friend and brother in Christ. Mike and I instantly hit it off and as is so often the case, it felt like we knew each other for decades.He instantly became part of the HHAUSA community, rooming with former fire chief Bob Barteck and Mike Dragich and Rick Hall of Project Savior Outdoors at Mission 28 in April. Mike was able to see the impact of our program and will be a bigger part of it moving forward.This was another great conversation of a man ordained by God to serve a community in need. You can find Mike on Facebook and Instagram or email him at pastormike@mtoliveweston.orgFor more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

It's been a while since I hopped on here to chat with my good friend and podcast editor Logan Chartrand. With plenty to discuss since Mission 28 kicked off our event season back in April, this was another great conversation.Logan brought his family up for their annual HHAUSA outing in June to Blackhawk Archers and Mission 30 and had another great experience. It's hard to believe that as I write this, the calendar has turned to August and we only have one event left in the 2024 season. So much has happened and the doors that keep opening for us have been nothing short of amazing. We are truly blessed to do this work.Our weekends and our guests on the podcast continue to have a positive impact on the lives of our service members and all of us that have become a part of the HHAUSA family. With big things in store for 2025, we cannot thank you all enough for the support and will be sharing more of next year's plans as we get into the fall.Thanks again HHAUSA Nation, we couldn't do this without you!For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

Now in its third year as a nonprofit organization, the A3G Grant Initiative has skyrocketed from an idea in Aaron Ritter's mind to a life changing gift to amputees across the United States.We pick up just weeks after 2024 recipient Dustin Pruett took ownership of his first compound bow setup and a great assortment of other archery and outdoor gear to get him off and running. A double lower limb amputee, the aspiring firefighter was apprehensive about shooting a vertical bow for the first time since grade school. But Ritter and his team's mantra of "overcoming obstacles through archery" gave him enough confidence to trust the process and give a stick and string another try.From the first arrow sent downrange at the GAS Bowstrings headquarters in Kentucky last month, Pruett's life and those in attendance changed forever. It wasn't simply the fact that the world of archery added another member to its ranks that day. Lifelong friends were made, tears were cried, bread was broken, and everyone left the week with a tank that was fuller than when they pulled in.That is the power of community and selfless people, serving one another, and looking for nothing in return. Funny thing is, and I say this from my own personal experience, is that we receive far more from serving than we could ever dream or imagine.We are honored to be a small part of the success that has become the A3G Grant Initiative. Like HHAUSA, their mission is to change lives, one arrow at a time, and we are excited to see what the future holds for this great program. To learn more, visit www.limbitlessoutdoors.com/a3g-initiative and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.Applications for 2025 will open in January so stay tuned to their social media and ours for more details.For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

We can only be so successful in our own power and are own strength. For nearly 30 years of his adult life, Aaron Ritter tried life his way and it wasn't working. Failed marriages, financial hardship, and hard living should have put him six feet under a long time ago. But God had other plans.After meeting Aaron virtually through close friend Al Quackenbush in late 2021, something special started between the two of us. Over time, more and more men of faith were placed in Ritter's life. Little by little, the walls that he had built over three decades began to come down, culminating in a return to his faith in January of 2024.Whether those of you reading this or listening to this podcast are Christians or not, you cannot deny the divine nature of what transpired in Aaron's life or his ministry in the past 24 months. There is simply no other explanation for his transformation than of a power higher and greater than anything here on planet earth.Having witnessed the beautiful journey my friend has been on has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and hope that you will too.The first of two back to back episodes with Aaron, you can learn more about LIMB-Itless Outdoors at www.limbitlessoutdoors.com and follow him on Instagram and Facebook.For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesHot Shot 15% Off Code: HHAPartner24Rugid Gear 10% Off Code: HHAUSA10StealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

Social media can be both a blessing and a curse and today's conversation may not have happened without it. After seeing a post on Instagram from ENDEX and Joe McClatchy from Rest and Refit Outdoors, I reached out to both of the groups responsible for providing Veteran and new archer Andrew Denny with his first bow setup.Jason McCoy, cofounder of ENDEX Archery had long been using archery as a means to combat his PTSD and wanted to bless other service members with that same gift. A phone call to fellow Marine Ray Vickers and the ENDEX story began to unfold.Growing up in the south with hunting and the outdoors a part of his DNA, McCoy found himself missing the stick and string while on Active Duty and something had to change. After losing six of his team members to an IED in 2015, he tried to cope with the trauma by isolating himself and turning to alcohol. Realizing that it wasn't a healthy route, he picked up his bow again and instantly found healing and therapy there.Fast forward to 2024 and ENDEX is on mission to change lives one arrow at a time, just as we are here at HHAUSA. We are excited to partner with them and look forward to seeing more success stories come from the work they are doing. If the smile on the face of Andrew Denny on the 3D range is any indication, they are just getting started.To learn more about how you can support ENDEX Archery, visit www.endexarchery.org and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesStealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

Joining the Marines after dropping out of college, Tyler Stallings was the old man in the group of recruits that he enlisted with. That wasn't a bad thing though as the Texas native admitted that he had some growing up to do and was forced to do it quickly. It turned into one of the best experiences of his life and helped mold him into the man he is today.One of the things that he missed the most while in the service was the sport of archery and being in the outdoors. It was there that the idea behind StealthRig was born and the rest, as they say, is history. Fast forward to the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show in St. Louis this past January and Stallings found himself onstage accepting The Impact Award for Best New Product. Beating out over 150 other items launched at the show, the modular bino harness system is unique in that it features a steel plate on the back, allowing you to attach your bow to it and navigate hands free in any environment.I had the pleasure of catching up with Tyler on the show floor as well as seeing him at Mission 28 here in Wisconsin in April. He and his brother in law attended our private event at Vortex Optics and made the trip up to the HHA factory for a tour later that week. With a product ideal for the Western hunter, he will be seeing a lot of The Badger State in 2024, attending all of the Beast Mode Archery Challenge events.A strong man of faith, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Tyler and am excited to see his brand grow as the years go by. His humble nature, servant's heart and passion for the outdoors will no doubt allow him to thrive in a competitive industry. You can follow StealthRig on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as well as visit their website at https://www.stealthrigllc.comUse code Stealth15 to receive 15% off all orders.For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.comHHAUSA Partner Discount CodesStealthRig 15% Off Code: Stealth15

We are back after a three month sabbatical from the podcast with now three-time guest Joe Rhodes of The Kniestedt Foundation. The bond that Joe and I have has only grown stronger in the now six or seven years we've known each other and this was a great conversation to dust off the mic with!Partnering for a second year in a row with the Oregon Sportsman's Club, Joe and eight Veteran alumni from the foundation made the trek to Wisconsin in late April and put on a sporting clays fundraiser event. Thanks to our friends at Vortex Optics, Brew Pub Pizza and the musical talents of Chris Kroeze, our guests were greeted with three days of camaraderie, plenty of laughs, a few tears, and full hearts. We wrapped things up with a 3D archery shoot on Sunday and plans are already in motion to make the 2025 weekend our biggest and best one yet.A teacher outside of St. Louis, when Joe isn't instructing the younger generation or spending time with his wife and two children of his own, he's the driving force behind what makes The Kniestedt Foundation tic. With a huge heart for the Military, Veteran and Service Member community, Rhodes finds these weekends as beneficial to his own soul and mental health as the participants do. I share that same feeling and seeing the smiles on the faces of our attendees, knowing that our organizations are providing healing through the outdoors is what fuels us from one event to  the next.  It's that shared passion and our faith that has brought Joe and I so close and we are both excited about what the future holds for our partnership and the positive life change it will bring to those who need it most.To learn more about The Kniestedt Foundation, visit https://kniestedt.org/ and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.For more information about HHAUSA, learn how you can support our mission, or attend an event, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, tees and hoodies, visit www.hhasports.com

As we head into our 5th year as HHAUSA, big things are on the horizon and 2024 is shaping up to be one for the ages. That said, we have reached a point in our history where we need more assistance with the day to day operations, partner relationships, event planning, social media management and general promotion of the work that we do here. After considerable time in prayer and conversation, I am excited to announce that Chad Stillman has been appointed as the Executive Director for HHAUSA. This move will allow us to further our work in the Veteran and First Responder communities, having an even greater impact on people's lives through archery and the outdoors.Chad's background, his story and his passion for the cause will be a tremendous asset to our organization. He will also be jumping on here as my cohost and I look forward to sharing the mic with him. As someone who lives with post traumatic stress, his perspective will take these episodes to a level I was unable to myself and more lives will be changed on a weekly basis.Stillman will be more present at our events across Wisconsin this year, starting with our debut at The Open Season Expo March 22nd, 23rd and 24th in Wisconsin Dells. Knowing how much his friendship and support have meant to me the past five years, I am eager to get into this next chapter and see the fruits of his work.You can connect with Chad on Facebook and Instagram and will be seeing much more of him going forward. Please join me in officially welcoming him to the team!For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

We have been blessed with some great sponsors in our five year history. Last January at The Archery Trade Association Show, good friend Aaron Ritter came running into our booth, eager to introduce us to the crew at Dead End Game Calls. While owner Mitchell Johnston wasn't able to make it to Indianapolis, we met the rest of his team and became fast friends.Recently retiring after more than two decades in the firefighting profession, the world champion caller can now focus all of his time of his business and ministry.  In what was another fantastic episode that at times felt more like a Sunday morning church service, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the story behind DHGC and hearing Mitchell's heart for serving a higher purpose.Without folks like Johnston and Dead End, HHAUSA isn't able to do the work we do. Not only the tangible items that they send to our events, these sponsors spread the word about our mission and many times, start one of their own if they don't already have one. It's companies like these that I want to support as a consumer and also lock arms with in an effort to make our world a better place by bringing positive change in the lives of those who cross our path.And if the opportunity to share The Gospel presents itself, both Mitchell and I are always obedient to that call. I was honored to share a message on The Wednesday Word, a video devotional that Dead End puts out on their social media each week, and plan to make a return to it in the near future.Thank you for your service brother! You are a light in the darkness and while you may have hung up your helmet, the fire is still burning.You can follow find both Mitchell and Dead End Game Calls on Facebook and Instagram and check out all their offerings at www.deadendgamecalls.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

I am a firm believer in divine appointments and six or seven years after our meeting, Seth Baranowski is too. From the first conversation I had with Seth at a fundraising shoot for the Never Forgotten Honor Flight in Weston Wisconsin, I knew that I had a new friend. Now one of the men in my inner circle, thankful is an understatement in describing how I feel about God bringing him and his family into my life.  He has been a blessing to me, to the archery community and to HHAUSA in so many ways.Fresh off his second trip to the ATA Show, we chat about our week in St. Louis, the Target The Heart Prayer Breakfast, his involvement with HHAUSA and his heart for serving others.The entire Baranowski family, Emmy, Landon, Melissa and Seth, all enjoy archery and the outdoors and it's not uncommon to see all four of them at our events during the summer. They've also added another member to their crew in a young man who lost his father. Seth's servant heart wanted to step up and after asking the boy's mother, he put a bow in his hand. Stories like these are what make our HHAUSA family so special. We all have busy lives but make the time to impact the lives of others. Seth has aspirations to one day start his own nonprofit to come alongside children who have lost a parent and to introduce them to the outdoors. When he does go down that road, I know that he will be successful and lives will be changed in the same way that my good friend has changed mine.His passion for the outdoors, involvement with Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, S3DA, HHAUSA and others make it pretty clear that he's not just here as a spectator. With an infectious smile, talk to anyone demeanor and a heart of gold, every organization needs a Seth Baranowski on their team and we are thankful to have him in ours.You can find Seth on Facebook and Instagram and more than likely at most, if not all, of our 2024 HHAUSA events here in Wisconsin.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Approaching my brother over a decade about about getting a couple of our youth sights for his kids, who knew how close Nathan Mathwig and I would be today? No, that's not a rhetorical question. God did.Now one of the core volunteers of our growing nonprofit, Mathwig has become much more than a friend to me, he's a brother. Seeing each other a half dozen times a year at our events across the state of Wisconsin, we have spent plenty of time with one another to form a bond that will last beyond this lifetime. Rooming with him five years ago at DeerFest in August of 2019, that weekend was the beginning of something so much bigger than archery. A shared love of the Veteran community, the outdoors, and eventually our faith in God, I look forward to any opportunity I can get to spend time with my friend.Such an opportunity presented itself a few weeks back as he made the trip with me and our close friend Seth Baranowski to the 2024 Archery Trade Association Show in St. Louis. To say that it was a life changing weekend for all of us would not do it justice. God showed up in a big way and lives were changed as the three of us sat back and marveled at how awesome our Creator is and that He enlisted three sinners like us to do His work together.This was a great podcast and editor Logan Chartrand remarked to me when he sent the episode over how passionate and spirited the conversation was. I've said it before and I'll say it again, HHAUSA would not be in existence today if it were not for men like Nathan Mathwig answering the call to serve those who serve our country. It is a blessing to be in the trenches with him each weekend and seeing lives transformed through the sport of archery. Thank you for all that you do my friend, you are a blessing to me and so many others!You can find Nathan on Facebook and Instagram and track him down at one of our 3D shoots here in The Badger State in 2024.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

It was a pleasure to have HHAUSA Podcast Alumni Amanda Hoenes back on the show this week. After meeting her at our Vortex Event last April, I had an instant friend and ally for the work that we do here.Reading her book "Digging Deeper" about her solo paddling journey down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, my level of respect for the GWOT Marine Veteran spiked even higher than the first impression I got from her in Wisconsin.Solidifying her place in the HHAUSA family and feeling inspired, Hoenes left The Badger State and headed back to Missouri to press into her own nonprofit, True Path Adventures. Designed to get teens and now adults off their devices and into the outdoors, Amanda is impacting others by sharing her passion for the outdoors.We surprised Amanda this fall through our partnerships with Bernatello Foods, Outdoor Bound TV and Vortex Optics. Hoenes headed to Saskatchewan on a dream mule deer hunt and harvested a great buck. Thanks to Kurt Walbeck and his crew, Gerhard Potgieter and Canada Outdoor Adventures, the Missouri native experienced some great comradery and was blessed to have another Marine Veteran in camp with her who quickly became a new friend.This was an amazing episode and I strongly encourage you to get a copy of Amanda's book, check out True Path Adventures, contact her for a speaking engagement, do anything to get her involved with your mission if it aligns with hers. She may have taken off the uniform a few years ago but this woman will be serving others until the Lord calls her home and we will be right there in the trenches with her!You can find Amanda  Hoenes on Facebook and Instagram and visit her website at https://www.truepathadventures.com/For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Thanks to the powers of modern technology, we are able to connect with anyone, anywhere, without leaving our house. Little did I know that a blog review of an archery sight 15 years ago would lead me to one of my best friends on the planet. Al Quackenbush and I communicate every day, through the You Version Bible App and our daily devotionals. We text frequently, hop on Zoom calls when we can work it into our schedules and see each other once a year in person. While I wish that we lived closer to have more face time, our friendship runs deep and I am eternally grateful that God brought us together.2023 was a big year for Al and his family. After many conversations with his wife and daughter and a lot of prayer, they relocated from Southern California to Nashville in June. It was a major move for the family but one that they have all embraced and they are loving life in The Volunteer State.With a network of friends already in place, Al has access to some private land which has made deer hunting opportunities a little easier than being on the west coast. He also headed back to New York to hunt with his family and it's been a successful fall even though he has yet to punch his tag.The move also brought about a rebranding for The SoCal Bowhunter. Wanting to share his faith more and appeal to a broader audience, Faithful Sportsman will be his new moniker, thanks to his wife Kymberli.Starting off 2024 at the ATA Show in St. Louis and SHOT in Vegas, there's no grass growing under Al's feet. At the same time, he and I both plan to try and eliminate the word busy from our schedule in the new year and be more intentional about keeping the first things first. I am excited about what the future holds for my dear friend and look forward to walking with him into this new season. You can follow Al on Facebook and Instagram, visit his web page at https://socalbowhunter.com/homepage and tune into the Sprocket and Chubbs Podcast, cohosted by Al and Navy Veteran Aaron Ritter.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

I want to thank Adam Miller of Bowhunter Chronicles Podcast for the introduction to our guest on this week's episode. Shortly after meeting Marine Veteran Andrew Comtois, Miller thought he should connect him with me and the work that HHAUSA is doing. While we have yet to meet in person, a handful of conversations later and we have become fast friends.Coming from a long line of service in his family, the Michigan native joined the Marines in 2005. Seven deployments and a traumatic brain injury later found him honorably discharged and at rock bottom in 2018. It was there that he would find a road to recovery through archery and the outdoors after picking up a bow for the first time in years.Words simply do not do this podcast justice and I guarantee that this conversation will save at least one life. Starting Outdoor Driven in January of 2023, Comtois is now using his experiences and passion for the outdoors to bring healing to others in need. His life took a a more substantial and eternal turn in July when he and his wife recommitted their lives to Christ in Alaska at a marriage retreat through Operation Heal Our Patriots, furthering his desire to put others first and make a difference in the world.I am excited to see what the future holds for Andrew and his organization and look forwward to sharing the range with him in April. God continues to bless me personally and the mission of HHAUSA by bringing amazing, like minded people like Andrew into my path. We are all in this together and will continue to change lives until the good Lord calls us home.You can find Andrew and Outdoor Driven on Facebook and Instagram and visit their website at https://outdoordriven.org/For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

While I don't like to disappoint our listeners who have been waiting for us to travel outside of Wisconsin, we will be staying home once again in 2024. That said, we have seven 3D shoots on the schedule for archers across the country to attend and help support the cause that is HHAUSA.You really need to listen to this episode to get the full impact of how special the upcoming year is setting up to be. We look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones as we continue to change lives one arrow at a time in the Veteran, First Responder and Law Enforcement communities.So start making plans to get to one or more of our events in 2024. April will be here before you know it!Wisconsin Open Season Expo Wisconsin Dells                               March 22-24Oregon Sportsman's Club Weekend (Mission 28) Oregon       April 20-21Waushara Archers  (Mission 29) Wautoma                                        May 18-19Blackhawk Archers (Mission 30) Custer                                              June 1-2Racine Instinctive Bowmen (Mission 31) Sturtevant                   June 22-23Tomah Warrens Sportsman's (Mission 32) Warrens                    July 13-14Rib Mountain Bowmen  (Mission 33) Brokaw                                  July 27-28De Pere Sportsmen's Club (Mission 34) De Pere                            August 17-18Our website should be updated by the 1st of the year at which point registration will be open for all 2024 shoots. Visit hhausa.org for more details.You can also follow HHAUSA on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

It's crazy how quickly time passes by the older we get. Closer to 50 than 40, I'm making more of an effort to cherish every conversation, every trip to the field and every sunset as we never know when it will be our last.Speaking of time flying, it's been nearly two years since I was introduced to Aaron Ritter of Limb-Itless Outdoors but the depth of our friendship makes it feel like twenty. A fellow nonprofit leader, Ritter has successfully navigated year two of his A3G Grant Initiative and what a year it was!If you've listened to the previous couple of episodes, you're already familiar with 2023 grant recipient Chris Norton as well as Christopher Dunlap and the role that he played in making the fall one to remember for these three amigos.It's been fun from my chair to see how the grant program has grown in a short time but I have a hard time taking the credit Ritter wants to give me for inspiring him to start it after our first conversation. Regardless, he is doing great things for the Veteran, archery, and amputee communities and I'm honored to be a small part of that.Aaron and I discuss all the happenings of 2023, including the emotional trip to Texas with Chris and Christopher, his fall hunting season, what the future of the grant holds, and so much more on the episode.There's not many Aaron Ritter's in this world but it's a better place because of him and the work he's doing. I'm inspired each time we talk or have the luxury of seeing each other in person. Aaron is a breath of fresh air and as I referred to him on here, an energy drink that leaves me feeling refreshed each time we converse.He's also one of my dearest friends and has been a blessing in my life in more ways than one. Thank you for everything that you do Aaron, and keep burnin' those ships!You can follow Aaron on Facebook and Instagram. You can also learn more about Limb-Itless Outdoors and the A3G Grant Initiative at:https://www.limbitlessoutdoors.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

People with a heart to serve never lose it, even when they hang up the uniform. Chris Dunlap is yet another example of a service member that continues to give back to the Veteran community through archery and the outdoors.The Virginia native grew up hunting and fishing so it's a big part of who he is. Also in his DNA, serving our country runs deep in Chris's family, going all the way back to the Civil War. Finding himself at Fort Benning Georgia three days after graduating high school for basic training, Dunlap served in the Army for sixteen years before medically retiring in 2012 and moving to Texas.Chris is always on the go as a husband, father, archer, and serving others any way that he can to make a difference. In addition to helping with his wife's ministry on their ranch, he's also a guide on several properties in The Lone Star State and reached out to Aaron Ritter over social media on New Year's Eve a couple years back to invite him down on a whitetail hunt. An instant friendship was born and Ritter returned in September with Chris Norton, his 2023 A3G Grant Recipient. If you listened to Norton's podcast, you know the end of the story but we now get to hear it from Dunlap's perspective.The bond these three men formed over a few short days is something that will last a lifetime. Finding the level of comradery that they experienced in the military is hard to replicate but they found it in the outdoors, just as other Veterans have.  HHAUSA is honored to be a small part of connections like this and we look forward to more success stories that put the healing power of archery on full display.Thank you for your service Chris, and thank you for your heart for putting others above yourself.You can find Christopher Dunlap on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

HHAUSA continues to be blessed with some amazing additions to our family and this guy fit right in from day one. US Army Veteran Chris Norton was selected as the 2023 A3G Initiative Grant Winner in a story that could only have been written by our Creator.When Aaron Ritter of Limb-Itless Outdoors enthusiastically told me about Norton, it confirmed once again why we do what we do at HHAUSA to impact the lives of others. Losing his lower leg in a motorcycle accident, Chris's life would be changed forever being an amputee and some dark days lay head for the Freehold New Jersey native.In those pivotal moments of our story, they can go one of two ways. Thankfully, Norton pulled himself out of the darkness, going onto become a firefighter and is now just months away from being an EMT as well. He's also found healing, community and new life in archery.During his time recovering, he purchased an entry level compound bow, knowing that he could use a new hobby to get his mind off his injury and get him outdoors. While he had hunted as a kid, archery was new to him and he was hooked. After a discussion with Ritter about saddle hunting, Chris applied for the grant and was unanimously selected by Aaron and his board, all picking Norton without discussing the candidates with each other.After an emotional and overwhelming presentation of the nearly $15,000 in gear at his fire station by Ritter, Chris now had his sights set on a Texas whitetail hunt in late September.I'll let him tell the rest of the story but suffice it to say, we will be seeing a lot more of Chris Norton in the years ahead and I look forward to meeting him face to face and sharing the 3D range with him soon.You can find Chris on Facebook and Instagram and learn more about the A3G Initiative at https://www.limbitlessoutdoors.com/a3g-initiativeFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

It's safe to say that nearly twenty years ago when Mark and Jane Neumann founded the Hunt4Life Foundation, they had little idea of the impact their Wisconsin based ministry would have.Now working with Operation Heal Our Patriots and seeing marriages resurrected and people making life altering decisions about their faith, Mark and Jane truly are doing the Lord's work. Coupled with serving young boys who have lost their fathers in the line of duty or to suicide, LifeCamp USA has grown astronomically in less than three years and will no doubt see its benefits felt for generations to come. I can't say enough good things about this ministry and it's one that we will continue to support as long as we are around. This was a great conversation and I look forward to hearing many more of the success stories from the Neumanns for years to come as they continue to transform the Military, First Responder and Law Enforcement Community.To learn more, visit hunt4lifefoundation.org and follow Hunt4Life and LifeCamp USA on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

After founding HHAUSA in 2019 our first big fundraising goal was to raise enough money to sponsor an entire Honor Flight to Washington DC for our Veterans here in Central Wisconsin. Thousands of arrows, dozens of archery shoots and $70,000 later, that dream became a reality on October 16th of this year.One of the perks of sponsoring a flight was getting to choose two guardians to fly and accompany Veterans on this day to remember. Mari Austin, an employee at HHA Sports, was one of those guardians. Her parents both served in World War II, were married for 68 years, and passed away within three days of one another. Sadly, neither was able to go on their Honor Flight. However, Mari was able to honor them both in a very special ceremony at the World War II Memorial in October. She shares that experience, more about her trip and the life of her parents on this very special episode.On this Veteran's Day weekend, we want to thank all those who have served our country and continue to make it the land of the free, because of the brave. Let us never forget all those who have served to protect our freedoms. We cannot ever take that for granted.For more information about The Honor Flight Network, visit honorflight.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

HHAUSA is not alone in what we are doing to help combat post traumatic stress in the Veteran and First Responder communities. There are many organizations across the country doing great work in this field, including others in the archery space. The Michigan based Shoot For Life is definitely one of them.I was blessed to meet Tom Spisz through the outdoor industry a few years back and we instantly struck up a friendship. Also a man of faith, the avid archer felt led towards a greater purpose as a 23 year old college student back in 2013 in what would lay the groundwork for Shoot For Life. A nonprofit organization promoting the physical and mental health benefits of the sport of archery, they are transforming lives one event, one arrow at a time.Running similar archery shoots as we do here at HHAUSA, Spisz and his dedicated team of volunteers have built an ever growing community of support, comradery and lifelong friendships around the bow and arrow.Having endured some of the same struggles in his personal life as I did a decade ago, Tom and I both can attest to how truly life changing archery can be, even for someone who may not suffer from PTSD. Together, our respective organizations are making a difference in spite both of us having busy schedules with our day jobs.Also donating full archery setups to Veterans with their Bows For Vets Program, Shoot For Life is doing God's work in The Great Lakes State and we are excited to collaborate more with them in the near future. Thank you for your service Tom, and may God bless you and your team!To learn more, you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram and visit their website at www.shootforlife.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

2023 has been a big growth year at HHAUSA and we have been blessed to continue crossing paths with some amazing individuals. I met Rick Young at the Archery Trade Association Show in Indianapolis back in January and we instantly hit if off. We would see each other again a month later in Florida at what will now be the venue for our first ever, out of state, HHAUSA shoot in 2024. Travelling for Centershot Blue, an archery ministry that is introducing the sport in cities across the country through the world of law enforcement, Young and I became fast friends. We connected for a third time at our Vortex event in April and it's safe to say the Wisconsin native is officially part of the HHAUSA family.Growing up in The Badger State, Rick picked up a love for the outdoors well before he could drive a car and loves spending time hunting and fishing with friends and family.  Firefighting and EMS work ran in his family and so it was a natural career path for Young when he finished school. One of those early jobs also required a law enforcement background and Rick soon found himself wearing all three of those hats and serving his community.A near fatal accident where he was sideswiped in his squad by an 18-wheeler and a bout with cancer just months later would help to bring Rick out of a dark place and closer to his faith. With a clean bill of health and new outlook on life, Young now wants to help others by sharing his story and love of the outdoors with the help of the Centershot Blue program.  We are excited to partner with them in 2024 and meet more folks like Rick who have overcome adversity thanks to a bow and arrow.Stay tuned as well for an upcoming film early next year with Young, HHAUSA Podcast alumni Aaron Scheer and Chad Stillman and others as we chronicle their September 2023 Colorado elk hunt.To learn more about Centershot Blue, visit their website at www.centershotblue.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

It's hard to believe that we are at the end of our 2023 HHAUSA season already but it's a reality and I continue to be humbled at the ever growing support that our mission is receiving. While I will miss seeing the HHAUSA family for a few months, I am excited for some time off to reflect, recharge and prep for what is lining up to be the biggest year in our history in 2024.With return trips to Tomah Warrens Sportsman's Alliance and Antler Archers and a maiden voyage to Racine Instinctive Bowmen, we were blessed with three amazing weekends of archery.A lot of familiar faces hit the 3D ranges here in Wisconsin and we met a bunch of new friends as well that are now part of our band of brothers and sisters. Young and old, beginners to seasoned archers, I can't say enough about the depth of community that has developed in just four short years.The 2nd Annual HHAUSA Banquet with Whitetails Unlimited was also a hit on Friday, August 18th, as our attendees were treated to the next HHAUSA film featuring our good friend Kyle Mindiola and his Veterans organization Archery Origins.The behind the scenes work has been underway for months to make 2024 our most ambitious and impactful year yet and we cannot wait to start sharing more details as we head into the fall.We want to thank everyone that makes HHAUSA a success. To our listeners, clubs, shoot attendees, volunteers, and sponsors, we say thank you. Without you, we could not serve those who have and continue to serve us.For all the outdoorsman, we pray for a safe and successful hunting season and look forward to seeing everyone again next year. May God bless you and God bless America!For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Little did I know that volunteering for the Never Forgotten Honor Flight seven years ago would lead me to starting HHAUSA. Such are the plans of God that are so much higher than anything we could ever dream up on our own.For those not familiar with the Honor Flight, it is a nonprofit organization that sends World War II, Korea and Vietnam Veterans on an all expense paid trip to Washington DC to visit the memorials erected in their honor. Having been on the flight six times as a  guardian, I can say that it is one of the best days of my life and I cannot imagine the emotions felt by our Veterans.I am blessed and honored to have Earl Morse, Veteran and Physician Assistant and Co-Founder of the Honor Flight Network joining me on this very special 100th episode of The HHAUSA Podcast.Starting to see an influx of World War II Veterans during his practice in the early to mid 2000's, Morse would ask all of them if they had plans to visit the newly constructed World War II Memorial in Washington DC that was built in their honor. Getting far more nos than yeses, Earl felt compelled to take matters into his own hands and the rest, as they say, is history.I'd like the conversation to speak for itself so won't dive much further into the details of a podcast I have looked forward to for the better part of two years. Suffice it to say, with over 130 chapters across the United States and now in access of 250,000 Veterans flown to our nation's capital to see the memorials, the Honor Flight Network has changed countless lives and will continue to do so for decades to come.Earl, thank you for your service and for being a light to so many. I look forward to the day that we can break bread together, swap stories and give thanks for the many blessings that we have been given by the God we serve.To learn more about the Honor Flight, visit www.honorflight.orgYou can also find Earl Morse on Facebook or email him at founder@honorflight.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

My connection with the Tennessee based outdoor apparel company BowAdx dates back to 2017. Meeting one of their staffers, Rick Devericks, at the Department of Defense Warrior Games in Chicago has been life changing. A Veteran and avid archer, Rick should be familiar with fans of The HHAUSA Podcast, having been on twice and as recently as last month.This week's guest and I have been playing a game of cat and mouse for the better part of a year and finally aligned schedules to record an episode. A busy family man, archer, corrections officer and staff manager for BowAdx, Tracy Rogers knows a thing or two about being busy.A recent surgery had him laid up long enough to slow down for an hour and I wish we used video on here. The pink backdrop of his daughter's bedroom was a sight to see but you'll have to take my word for it. Sorry Tracy!Growing up in Arkansas, he started hunting at a young age and like many of us in our late 40's, engineered a thing or two from what was around the house to try and get a leg up on the game. I won't spoil the story but let's just say that I will never look at a swing set again without thinking of Mr. Rogers!On a serious note, the Razorback has spent more than two decades inside the walls of a prison and has stared evil straight in the face on more than one occasion. Crediting his strong faith for keeping him going, Tracy has also had the chance to share that faith through his work and have a positive impact in a place that needs it the most.Good friends and hunting partners with BowAdx owner Chad Davis, I look forward to one day sharing the 3D range, deer camp or dinner with Tracy and we thank him for his service.On a personal note, I get a handful of uplifting messages from Rogers each week on Instagram and can't tell you how many times they arrive just when I need them. God has a way of placing people in our lives and I am thankful that He put Tracy in mine.You can add Tracy on Facebook or follow him on Instagram at t.rogers35Last but not least, don't forget to checkout BowAdx on social media or visit their website at www.bowadx.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Anyone that knows me is aware of the fact that I am a big NASCAR fan. I've been blessed to have crossed paths with a few folks in the garage area from drivers to crewmen to the pastors from Motor Racing Outreach. A few years back I was introduced to Wisconsin native and car chief for Kevin Harvick, Robert "Cheddar" Smith. With a shared love of racing and the outdoors, we hit it off instantly and became fast friends.Our faith and support of the military also in common, Cheddar and I are in the planning stages of an HHAUSA event with NASCAR that we are excited about it. Until then, we catch up a few times a year over the phone or at the track and finally sat down to have him on the podcast.Growing up in southeastern Wisconsin, he started working on cars and the idea of moving to Charlotte and a possible career in racing was born. With a few hundred dollars in his pocket, Smith set out for North Carolina and the rest, as they say, is history. Nearly a decade into his tenure at the famed Stewart Haas Racing, Cheddar won a Cup Series title with Harvick in 2014 and a whole lotta races.About as down to earth as you are going to get, Robert is passionate about spending time in the outdoors fishing, hunting and enjoying God's creation in his downtime with his girlfriend. After a divorce and a difficult season of life, Smith was reintroduced to his faith by Cliff Daniels from Hendrick Motorsports, giving him a new lease on life.There are certain people in life that you just feel better after spending time with and Cheddar is definitely one of those people in mine. Enjoy the podcast and make sure to give him and his Stewart Haas Racing teammates a follow on the socials!For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

I first crossed paths with my close friend Bob Barteck over a quarter century ago. My earliest memories of Bob were of a man who always had a smile on his face, an encouraging word to offer and a heart for serving others.Those trademark characteristics are alive and well today but nearly came to an abrupt end last summer on a mountaintop out West. Suffering a massive heart attack while on vacation with his wife Kris, the Wisconsin native details the harrowing story of how he had to put years of training as a firefighter/paramedic to use to keep he and his wife calm and get him safely to a hospital from the remote location.A man of strong faith, Barteck credits the Lord with saving his life that day and putting complete strangers in his path to make that happen. It was a life changing event that caused him to rethink his priorities, so much so that he has turned in his retirement papers early and will be stepping down as the Fire Chief in Wausau by the end of 2023.With his first grandchild on the way, Bob is excited to start a new season of life, enjoy his family and friends more, build a new home with Kris and continue to serve wherever God calls him to. I am not alone in sharing in the excitement of this next chapter for Bob and am anxious to see it unfold.A passionate outdoorsman, I have no doubt in my mind that we will be seeing more of him on the HHAUSA circuit, using his gifts, talents and life experiences to come alongside others in need of assistance. While the uniform may be coming off for good this year, Bob Barteck will continue to live his life doing what he does best: serving others with a contagious joy that this world needs more of.I've been blessed with some amazing friends in my forty eight years and Bob is surely one of them. A wealth of knowledge and always eager to pay it forward, share his story, or a hunting story or two, you can connect with him on Instagram and Facebook.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Tyler Geiger is a warrior and was put on this earth to make a difference. For the past half decade, he was doing just that on the streets of Nashville and Billings, doing the hard and often underappreciated work of a law enforcement officer. As the job continued to take it's toll on the passionate outdoorsman and ultrarunner, he and his wife Morgan had the "what if" conversation one night this past April. Less than 24 hours later, Geiger stood in the ER, watching his colleague get his guts checked for bullet fragments after a shooting. It was in that moment that the 30 year old knew it was time for a career change. In one of the most open and raw conversations ever on this podcast, Tyler pulls no punches, telling it like it is and goes in depth on his exit from the world of police work. I have a ton of respect for my friend and anyone that puts on the badge day after day to keep us safe. Fortunately, he made it home that night and it's safe to say that the self-improvement guru has a bright future in front of him. Combining his love of fitness and the outdoors, we'll be seeing plenty of Geiger in the months and years to come and I am excited to see him succeed in this new season.God spared Tyler for a reason and he will continue impacting people through his work, his story and making a difference in a world that needs a whole lot more folks like him.You can keep up with Tyler on Instagram and check out his Nock Performance podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nock-performance/id1589739377For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

I met Rick Devericks at the Department of Defense Warriors Games in Chicago in the summer of 2017. We became fast friends and share our love of country, our Veterans and the Lord. His friendship has been one of many that I am so thankful for and I look forward to sharing some time on the archery range with him some day soon.Until them, we will have to catch up over the phone and on this podcast. His second time joining us, Devericks recently returned from the DOD Warrior Games in his role as the archery coach for Team SOCOM. I won't spoil the party but let's just say that his prowess with the bow and arrow has spread quickly to those he's been instructing and good things have followed.Archery is a life long passion for the Rick and he gets range time whenever he can to battle his own PTSD and knows firsthand the value of giving that same gift to others who are struggling. His youngest son has also picked up the bow and time with him is far and away the joy of Deverick's life.Residing in North Carolina, we hope to some day have an event closer to his home turf that will allow us to see each other in person more often. While plans are still in the works, when that day does come, I know that Rick will be there in the trenches with us doing what he does best, continuing to serve his community through his love of archery and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.Thank you for your service Rick! Keep shining that light brother!You can find Rick on Instagram and Facebook and learn more about the DOD Warrior Games at https://dodwarriorgames.com/For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Navy Veteran Jeff Bruss wasn't brought up in a hunting family in spite of being born and raised in The Northwoods of Wisconsin. That didn't stop him from getting into archery and taking a spike buck with a bow and arrow in 1997 which lit a fire in Bruss that hasn't gone out since. After graduating college shortly before Y2K, Jeff landed a job in Three Lakes working for a publishing company on websites and databases. Continuing to chase whitetails would eventually lead to an elk hunt out West, where dust covered equipment inspired Bruss to develop a waterproof bow case. Soon after, Rugid Gear was born.Thankful that he didn't have any traumatic experiences during his time in the military, Jeff did see the impact of PTSD on some of those he served with and he wanted to find a way to give back. I received an email from him in mid-April, offering his support to HHAUSA in the form of product donations that we rely on for our fundraising efforts. I cannot overstate how important relationships like the ones we have with Bruss and Rugid are to the success of our mission. Like those who carry supplies to the front line soldiers in combat, we couldn't do our job without the like of Jeff and countless other manufacturers that make up the HHAUSA family.A great conversation that I look forward to having again, I anticipate the day that I can share the 3D range with Jeff and learn more about the fellow Wisconsinite that I now call a friend.To learn more about Rugid Gear, check out their products at www.rugidgear.com and follow them on Instagram and YouTube.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Regardless of what line of work we are in, we all need rest. In a world that tells us to "keep on grinding" to get ahead, it's no wonder that mental health is at the forefront of so many conversations these days. Burning it at both ends will lead to burn out, every single time.In an effort to spin all the plates that I have going at any moment in time, I felt a short break was in order from recording this podcast. I didn't know how long that break would be but knew that God would call me back to the mic on His watch, not mine. He did just that when I saw a post from friend and pastor Stacy Hensley of 3B (Bible, Believer, Black Lab) Ministries last week. The father of six is all too familiar with packed calendars and felt the need to take a sabbatical from social media and I had to reach out to him. I knew there was a reason for both of us withdrawing in this season and wanted to find out more and share it with our listeners. Hensley gladly accepted the invitation and I couldn't have chosen a more appropriate guest for my return.Having a grandfather who stormed Omaha Beach in World War II and other relation that wore the uniform, Stacy is a patriot through and through and has a passion for serving the military in his ministry. An upbringing in the outdoors has also made Stacy popular with the hunting crowd and a frequent speaker at wild game dinners across the country. A hospice chaplain, the Georgia native has been privy to some amazing conversations with men and women who have fought for our country and shared their stories with him before they passed on. This is a conversation that has to be heard to truly appreciate the kind of impact that Hensley is having on those God is putting in his path. So sit back for the next sixty minutes and enjoy one of my favorite podcasts to date with a man that I know we will be seeing more of here at HHAUSA.Stacy will be returning to social media (Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok) and when he does, I look forward to tuning into his messages again. They have spoken to me more than once when I needed it and there is a good chance that one of those future messages could be meant for you.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

If you are fortunate, you've had the opportunity to know or meet a World War II Veteran. With those still living well into their 90's, these national treasures are few and far between and as part of The Greatest Generation, helped change the fate of the world nearly 80 years ago.Dave Morse was blessed to spend many days of his childhood with his grandfather, who served in World War II. With his father being a Vietnam Veteran, service was something instilled in the young boy at an early age and he knew that he too wanted to serve his country when he grew up.Being from the Midwest, it was only natural that the two elder Morses took young David to the blind and he was bitten by the waterfowl bug not long after he learned to ride a bike. A man of integrity and strong faith, Dave credits his late grandfather for the man he has become as he continues to serve in the Minnesota National Guard.An unexpected deployment to Iraq shortly after his college career began, the then 19 year old grew up in a hurry and is thankful for his time in the desert. Unfortunately, like so many who fought the Global War on Terrorism, too many of his fellow soldiers were lost to suicide after returning home and Morse was led to do something about it.In 2008, Dave began getting some of his friends struggling with PTSD into hunting and fishing and instantly saw the life changing benefits of those experiences. Starting the Wounded Warriors Guide Service in 2009, his passion for the outdoors would lead to an opportunity to start American Heroes Outdoors TV a few short years later. Working as a manager at Grand Forks Scheels, the dots connected quickly and the show continues to impact the lives of the Military, Law Enforcement and First Responder communities today. In the summer of 2022, emails led to phone calls which culminated in an invitation to HHAUSA Mission 24 last month outside of Madison to Dave and three other Minnesota National Guardsmen. The quartet competed and won the team event at The Beastmode Archery Endurance Race. They thoroughly enjoyed their weekend and plan to return in 2024 as their mission grows.I am blessed to now call Dave Morse a friend, a brother in Christ, and look forward to continue working together to make a difference. It sounds redundant but I feel like our respective organizations are just getting started and the sky is truly the limit to what we can do together.To learn more about American Heroes Outdoors TV, visit their website at https://www.americanheroesoutdoors.com and check them out on Bally Sports North, Midco Sports, Waypoint TV, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

One of the upsides to social media is that it makes it much easier to meet people that just a couple decades ago we may have never crossed paths with. Amanda Hoenes is one of those individuals and I am so thankful for that introduction for many reasons.Not only is she a GWOT Veteran who proudly served her country in the Marines for six years, The Show Me State native is also an avid outdoorsman with a passion for sharing that love with others. It was that passion and her sense of adventure that allowed her to accept my invitation to Mission 24 here in Wisconsin last month and our new friendship officially kicked off.Ever the thrill seeker and not one to stay in one place too long, Hoenes has lived a lot of life in her 40 plus years on this earth and in a few different locales. But she still has some ground (and water) to cover. Sensing the urge to disconnect from a society thrown into chaos during the pandemic in 2020, Amanda sold her house and set out to solo paddle the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers in a 17 foot canoe. With her new four legged friend in tow, the 6-month, 3,300 mile journey is captured in her new book "Digging Deeper". All I can say is that it is a must read and one that you can't put down.Managing the family farm in Missouri and getting kids off their devices into the outdoors through her latest venture, True Path Adventures, Hoenes is using her experiences to impact and empower others to live life to the fullest. Also promoting the book through speaking engagements, there is no grass growing under her feet as she continues to fulfill God's purpose for her life.I look forward to continuing to work with Amanda as she lives out that purpose. You can learn more about her and True Path Adventures, grab a copy of Digging Deeper, and follow her on Instagram at the links below.https://www.amandahoenes.com/https://www.truepathadventures.com/https://www.amazon.com/Digging-Deeper-Veteran-Missouri-Mississippi-ebook/dp/B0BNXSR5S3https://www.instagram.com/amandahoenes/?hl=enFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

It's a miracle that Mike Dragich is even here. Shot at point blank range in a gang related incident at 19 years old, he should have bled out from his injury had a close friend not tracked him nearly a mile into a backyard where he lay going in and out of consciousness. A major wake up call that he needed to change his ways, the Ohio native joined the Marines and God began to soften the heart of the hard nosed fighter.Shortly after leaving the hospital, Mike rededicated his life to Christ and asked to be used for His purposes. Running the martial arts program while in the Marines, four years in the military was all that God had planned for Dragich as he and his wife started their family.Now a successful businessman, MMA fighter, and nuisance alligator trapper in Florida, Mike launched Project Savior Outdoors in January of 2023 in an effort to fight Veteran suicide and PTSD. Having lost 15 men that he served with to suicide since 2015, Dragich and his team are coming alongside those struggling, empowering them through the outdoors and sharing the love of Christ.We are excited to be a part of PSO and had the pleasure of spending a few days with Mike and his crew at Mission 24 last month in Southern Wisconsin. They will be launching their own podcast soon to continue spreading the message and impact even more lives in the years ahead.God has Mike and Project Savior Outdoors on the fast track to do great things in the Veteran space and share his love along the way. To learn more, you can follow them here:https://www.instagram.com/bluecollar_brawler/https://www.instagram.com/projectsavioroutdoors/https://www.projectsavioroutdoors.org/For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

I love to talk. I love to write. But sometimes less is more. Starting with today's episode, I am going to shorten these descriptions up and allow the content of the podcasts to speak for themselves.Nearly two years in the making, Mission 24 did not disappoint and the impact will be felt for years, even lifetimes for those in attendance. A bold statement I know but lives were changed forever outside of Madison Wisconsin last weekend as nearly 150 Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, First Responders, Law Enforcement Officers, and civilians came together around archery and the outdoors.From the private tour of the Vortex facility to the 3D archery shoot at Blackhawk Bowhunters to the sporting clays shoot at Oregon Sportsman's Club to the Beast Mode Archery Endurance Run and Chris Kroeze concert at Tyrol Basin, it was a weekend for the ages.So many friends, so many supporters and so many sponsors (thank you Vortex Optics, Mission BBQ, Lottza Mottza Brew Pub Pizza, 1st Phorm Outdoors and The Kniestedt Foundation) made this event possible. Keep late April of 2024 open as we are already planning for next year. If you have never been to an HHAUSA weekend before, this podcast will have you hooked and punching your ticket for Wisconsin faster than you can say cheese curds. So sit back, relax and enjoy the conversation as editor Logan Chartand and I talk about the biggest gathering in our history.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

While we try to bring new guests on as much as we can, I do enjoy having "old' friends back on the podcast to catch up and see what's new from our last discussion. I met Collin Cottrell back in his early days in the archery and outdoor industry and don't know where those 15+ years have gone. We have both matured a ton since that first encounter and God has blessed us both with amazing lives and ministries. Both civilians but with a heart for those who serve our country and communities, I like to think that we are leveraging our connections in our respective circles to make the lives of others better.Long embedded in the world of marketing and owner of C3 Media, Cottrell founded High Caliber Hunts in 2021, bringing men together around a shared interest in hunting several weekends a year in Texas. Trying to live out Proverbs 27:17, these "iron sharpens iron" gatherings are about much more than hunting. Like minded men are seeing life change through open and honest conversations around the fire, diving into topics ranging from business to marriage to faith and everything in between. Surely not the first to conduct retreats of this kind, I have to applaud my friend for his passion and commitment to investing in the lives of others from a place of seeking nothing in return. A recent offline chat with him revealed just how rewarding making these connections is for the soul as I experience very similar feelings at our HHAUSA events. It's impossible to put a price on connecting good people and I look forward to the day when HHAUSA and High Caliber Hunts can pull off a joint trip together. Stay tuned!Not one to let the grass grow beneath his feet, the Minnesota native has jumped into the world of personal training and is steadily building a list of clients in that arena. Using his own weight loss journey of dropping 100 pounds in just two years, Cottrell is quickly finding success and again helping others become the best version of themselves. He also talks at length about a 100-mile ultra run that he completed in March and how impactful it was for him on many levels.While I could definitely get myself in better shape with his program, it was his upcoming Mastermind Group in late summer 2023 that really grabbed my attention. Partaking in my first series of sessions of this nature during COVID in 2020, I realized the benefits of getting vulnerable with a handful of likeminded individuals seeking self-improvement.  I look forward to being part of his inaugural group and guarantee that it will be lifechanging for everyone involved.I could go on and on about what this guy means to me and how our friendship has grown since the 1st of the year as we have reconnected and realized just how much the Lord had blessed us with this reunion. We never know the impact that we will have on other people's lives in the moment and where it may lead. I am thankful for men like Collin Cottrell, who like myself, has left behind his old self to become a servant for a world that is desperate for Godly men to step up and not be afraid to share their faith. As human beings, we will always be limited in what we can accomplish but with God, all things are possible. Collin and I will continue our conversations in the weeks and months ahead and I'm excited for where those will lead.Interested in a High Caliber weekend? Visit www.highcaliberhunts.com or reach out to Collin on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Many of us who are passionate archers and outdoorsmen can credit our fathers for getting us into the sport. You can add New Yorker Jeremy Cavaretta to that list. Hunting at a young age and perhaps "too young" according to the law back in the late 80's (you'll need to listen to the episode for the full story!), "Jay Alpha" kept his nose clean throughout high school because he didn't want to miss an opportunity to take to the woods with his dad. A star athlete, we was home before the parties got started thanks to the deep bond he was building with the elder Cavaretta who served in Vietnam.Feeling called to serve his country , Jeremy joined the Navy in early 2001, prior to 9/11, and much to his families surprise.  Excelling during his time in the service, he spent his last few years in Guantanamo Bay, guarding some of the same high profile prisoners that he had a hand in sending there. Working with the FBI and CIA and conducting interrogations, it was only natural that the Master-at arms would move into the world of Law Enforcement after getting out. Having already taken civil service tests for State Trooper and Department of Corrections while home on leave, Cavaretta was poised to transition to a new career stateside postmilitary. A hiring freeze put that on hold for a short time until he got the call from the DOC and was off and running in his next season of life.The family man continued his obsession with archery and the outdoors, staying fit with jiu-jitsu and boxing. But his life took a near fatal turn in December of 2017 after he felt a heart flutter while in the tree stand. After getting an EKG at an appointment that his wife had scheduled, he was shipped to a cardiologist who could only discover a murmur. After requesting  a stress test once he revealed his line of work to the doctors, the ultrasound revealed a dangerous aneurysm and he was rushed into a life saving surgery.Recovering quickly and back to work in 90 days, he would compete and take two 2nd places in a big jiu-jitsu tournament just a year later while continuing to fill his trophy room each fall with some impressive headgear. He and his wife both work out with their family and want to set an example for their children that they can take care of themselves and have fun while doing it.Sadly, his world was shattered in February of 2021 when he lost his father, his lifelong mentor and hunting partner. Just twelve months later, his brother passed away, leaving him without his two best friends and family members that he had made so many memories with in the field.Having started to film his hunts to preserve them forever for his kids and future generations to see, Cavaretta continues to take to the woods to feel closer to his late father and brother but also to clear his head from years in the service. Like so many that suffer with PTSD, he finds a peace and solitude that is difficult to locate elsewhere and wants to help others who struggle discover that same healing. I loved this podcast and hearing from a man who could have easily given up on life many times in his 46 years. But a strong love for his country, his family and the outdoors combined with the true heart of a servant continues to get him up off the mat to fight another day. It's men like Jeremy that make me proud to be an American and to push forward on our mission here at HHAUSA to change and save lives through the sport of archery. We are excited to see what the future holds for him and are thankful that he's on our side. God bless you brother, and thank you for your service!You can follow Jeremy on Instagram and Facebook.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Growing up on a farm, Jake Arvold was exposed to animals and hunting at an early age and a lifelong passion was born. Guiding elk in Idaho by the time he was 18, the homeschooled Wisconsin native bought and flipped his first house at 19 and started his own CrossFit gym "The Machine Shed" while in college. Ambitious for someone further along in years, much less a kid barely out of high school. Such is the life of those that are born to succeed and blessed to do what they are passionate about for a living.Jake continued on that steep trajectory towards his destiny of working in an industry he loved and where he could have impact on the lives of others. A chance encounter at a bodybuilding show would put him on a crash course with the founder of the now globally recognized nutrition brand, 1st Phorm. In what sounded like something out of a perfectly written movie script, Arvold is now two years into his role as the Director of 1st Phorm Outdoors, bringing the clean, active lifestyle giant together the archery and outdoor community. Closer to 50 now than 40, I'd be lying if I said that I was a little bit inspired after speaking with Jake to dust off the Bow Flex in my basement and start taking better care of myself. Representative of everything I have come to learn about 1st Phorm since being introduced by friend, former MLB pitcher and President of Premier Pitching Brett Graves, the Missouri based company has products that work and sell themselves. The culture and way they do business is very similar to what we have built on the for profit side at HHA Sports. Great people, making great products and operating from a place of integrity. Apologies if it comes across as bragging and not at all my intention, but I have seen first hand over the past 40 years what it looks like to do things the right way and the rewards that come of it. 1st Phorm is doing just that and I love supporting brands that do business the hold character as high as they do product quality. Unfortunately, that is becoming a thing of the past but not with these guys and if Arvold has anything to say about it.A great conversation that I look forward to continuing in person later this month when Jake and his team journey to the Badger State for Mission 24, I want our listeners to dive into this one for themselves and find their own takeaways. We appreciate them coming on board as a sponsor for HHAUSA and I know their products will be a big hit with our shoot attendees.  On a person level, I think the Hamm house will be seeing more 1st Phorm products on the doorstep in the near future on our way to being better, healthier versions of ourselves.You can connect with Jake, 1st Phorm and 1st Phorm Outdoors on all the social platforms and check out his  "Experience More" podcast. To learn more about 1st Phorm Outdoors and to check out their products, visit www.1stphormoutdoors.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Picking up a guitar before he ever hopped on a school bus, Chris Kroeze knew from a young age what he wanted to do when he grew up. Becoming so attached to it as a six year old, there's a picture in the family photo album of the little boy falling asleep with one tucked under his arm. Twenty five years later, not much has changed.Married and a father of two, Kroeze still lives in Barron, population 3,659, a small town in Northwestern Wisconsin. Having long been a household name across The Badger State and with a runner up finish on NBC's The Voice a few seasons ago, success hasn't changed Barron's favorite son one bit. Humble, soft spoken and easy to talk to, Chris has all the characteristics of the Mr. Nice Guy that holds the door for you at the neighborhood Kwik Trip but can rock the house at a moments notice. Once he takes the stage, two decades of picking a guitar quickly grab your attention along with a voice that doesn't come around too often.Writing songs that vividly capture life here in the Midwest and bring the listener into the story, you can quickly pick up his musical roots that range from classic country to southern rock. My wife and I watched Kroeze and his band in Wisconsin Rapids last Friday night as they entertained the nearly sold out crowd for close to two hours. With a mix of covers and original music, I saw a man that loved what he did for a living and did it well. Human, a song penned for his finale on The Voice, was my favorite of the evening and I look forward to hearing him play it again in April in an acoustic setting for our HHAUSA weekend outside of Madison. Thanks to longtime friend and HHA supporter Kurt Walbeck of Outdoor Bound TV, we got connected to Kroeze through Brew Pub Lotzza Mottza Pizza. Having travelled abroad many times to entertain the military, he was a natural fit for the crowd at our biggest event to date. I also have to thank Matt "Mottza Matt" Selvig and his team, for putting this show together.An avid outdoorsman, I look forward to getting to know Chris better on a personal level and collaborate more in the future to support our service men and women. Gifted with the God given talent to pick and sing, I appreciate his heart for the Veteran community and encourage anyone that appreciates good music and good people to take in a Chris Kroeze show the next time he's in your area. Here at HHAUSA, we like to support and promote the good guys, and Chris most definitely fits the bill.You can follow Chris on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and check out his website at www.chriskroezemusic.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Anyone that knows me or follows me on social media is aware of the fact that I'm a big NASCAR fan with my primary team being Hendrick Motorsports. I was very excited at the beginning of 2022 when my friend Jeff Cordero texted me that he had just landed a new gig on as a tire changer for William Byron's #24 Chevy Camaro for HMS. Cordero made his way to Wisconsin for NASCAR's Road America weekend but took a detour to grab lunch and a tour at HHA Sports headquarters before getting to work in the pits. A passionate archer and supporter of our brand, he was stoked to get a behind the scenes look at our operation and we even got to fling a few arrows on the practice range together.Strictly a hunter until 2022, his competitive nature sparked an interest in target archery. A couple text messages later and he was connected with a reputable coach through a close friend of mine and he was off and running. Competing at both the Lancaster Archery Classic and the Vegas Shoot in early 2023, he realized that he had some work ahead of him but the atmosphere was electric for a guy used to doing sub 10 second pit stops. Applying a lot of the same tools that have made him so successful in racing's top series, I have no doubt that Jeff will  excel in this new arena and I am excited to follow his journey.One of the hottest teams in the garage a handful of races into the young season, Jeff and the #24 team have made two trips to Victory Lane already and more wins are likely to come. Having won a Cup title future Hall of Famer Kyle Busch and Joe Gibbs Racing a few years ago, Cordero says this team has a similar vibe to it and I will be cheering on my friend to make the Championship Four in Phoenix this November.Moving in 2022 to house with a bit of acreage, he will now have an easy spot to hunt during racing season right out the back door and is also putting the finishing touches on a man garage to house his toys and trophies, much to the satisfaction of his bride.So where does the military tie into all of this you ask? For those that didn't catch him way back on Episode 6 in July of 2021, his dad was in the service and Jeff has been a big supporter of the work we do here at HHAUSA. As we continue to plan a larger partnership with NASCAR and HHAUSA, Cordero will be leading the charge in the garage to make it as successful as his Sunday afternoons at the track. Thanks buddy, we appreciate it. And let's go HMS!For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

My friendship with Robin Parks started at The Archery Trade Association Show several years ago thanks to mutual friend and editor of The HHAUSA Podcast, Logan Chartrand. Wanting to learn more about the history of HHA Sports, what was new for the year and my involvement in the military community, the three of us hopped on a podcast after the show closed and something very special occurred. Several times throughout the 90 minute discussion, the conversation came to a halt as we were all impacted by the power of what was being said. To this day, I struggle to put it into words but suffice it to say that a very special bond was formed that I never see going away. I also credit that evening and those two friends with inspiring me to dive into the world of podcasting.Both with hectic schedules, I am embarrassed to say that it has taken 83 episodes to get Robin on as a guest but can guarantee that we will do it again before the next 83 fly by. I'd also like to send a prayer request over the airwaves as he recovers from shoulder replacement surgery: something that an avid archer with a September elk tag didn't anticipate six months ago. Lord willing, Robin will be texting me before the leaves turn with a thumbs up grip and grin and that episode will take place before the end of 2023. Get well soon my friend.Wearing a handful of hats including staff coordinator and social media manager for longtime archery staple Hot Shot Archery, Parks truly is a jack of all trades and is known throughout the industry as one of "good guys". Juggling his responsibilities at Hot Shot around a day job for a few more years, Robin found the time to get away last summer on the hunt of a lifetime with his girlfriend and a handful of other close friends. Popping the question half way around the world in South Africa, it was an event filled trip that he definitely will do again with his new bride.A supporter from our beginnings here at HHAUSA, Robin and Hot Shot have been great partners and continue to fly the flag for our mission. Veteran owned, Hot Shot is a trusted, American made brand in the archery space that we are proud to partner with and call our friends. I can't thank both Parks and Hot Shot enough for their support and belief in the mission of HHAUSA. Without individuals and companies like these championing our cause, we wouldn't be here. Thank you!You can find Robin on Facebook and Instagram and follow Hot Shot on both platforms as well as follow their new YouTube channel. Robin is also the host of The Hot Shot Archery Podcast which will be returning to the airwaves very soon, possibly with yours truly as a guest. Last but not least, you can also visit their website at www.hotshotarchery.com. For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

When my good friend Aaron Scheer of Centershot Ministries mentioned that their organization had started a new program called Centershot Blue, I was all ears. Falling perfectly inline with our expanded mission at HHAUSA to reach the Law Enforcement community with our message, I was onboard before another word was spoken. To say the work that they are doing is changing lives is an incredible understatement. Still in its infancy, Centershot Blue is going to have an impact in police departments and communities from coast  to coast for years to come.Growing up the son on an elk guide, Scheer lives and breathes the outdoors. An aspiring tournament bass fishermen, he relocated with his wife to the south and began to chase his dream. But God had other plans. A chance encounter, or as we like to call them around here, a divine appointment, with a fellow angler would change the trajectory of his life forever. The man's influence on Aaron would eventually lead to a a renewed relationship with Christ, work as a pastor and being called back to Green Bay Wisconsin. Passionate about archery and thanks to connections with Matt McPherson, owner of the world renowned Mathews Archery, Scheer would land a new position as the president of Centershot Ministries. Right in his wheelhouse, it's been a whirlwind and the faith based organization has truly taken flight. Their plunge into the world of Law Enforcement has been met with open arms from a profession that suffers from the effects of PTSD alongside the Veteran and First Responder communities and the sky is truly the limit for where that partnership can go.HHAUSA and HHA Sports are honored to be joining forces with Centershot and Centershot Blue, thanks to great meetings at the 2023 ATA Show in January and a warm weather get together (more of those to come...) outside Orlando a few weeks ago.An absolutely phenomenal conversation, I am excited beyond words to continue working with my close friend and brother in Christ to bring positive change to a world that so desperately needs it. Stay tuned for more announcements in 2023 for what that will look like going forward. Until then, you can find Aaron Scheer, Centershot and Centershot Blue on Facebook and Instagram and visit their websites and www.centershot.org and www.centershotblue.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Anyone that knows me or follows me on social media is aware that I am a huge NASCAR fan. So when an opportunity came up to attend the season opening Daytona 500 in Florida, I jumped at the chance and headed south for a week of racing in The Sunshine State with my good friend Jesse Urban.Jesse and his wife Lindsay reside here in Central Wisconsin and run Be Still Retreats, a pastors retreat founded to prevent clergy burnout. Having introduced Jesse to a friend in the NASCAR world back in 2016, he was the perfect travel companion for this ministry trip. That belief was confirmed early on in our adventure and affirmed countless times as the week progressed.Aaron Scheer and some of his team from Centershot Ministries happened to be in Florida at the same time doing training for the Centershot Blue program designed to bring archery to the Law Enforcement world. Our meeting with their crew was just the beginning of a weekend of divine appointments, open doors and a sign of great things to come for all of us in the year ahead. Gathered in an airplane hanger on the grounds of the hallowed Kirchman Ranch east of Orlando, the foundation was laid for what should be our first out of state archery event in 2024 during Speed Week.Having gained some great friends in the NASCAR garage over the past decade, our next stop would be 1801 W. International Boulevard in Daytona Beach, home of the World Center of Racing, Daytona International Speedway. It didn't take long and we were connecting with crew members, officials, and a handful of drivers from the top racing series in North America. On the biggest weekend of the season, these guys took the time out of their day to have meaningful conversations about life, hunting and most importantly how we could work together to help our Veterans and First Responders. As much as I love professional stock car racing, I walked away from my week in Daytona with an even greater appreciation for the heart of the people that make up the NASCAR community. It is a tight knit family whose purpose is much bigger than running cars around a track 10 months out of the year. Most of these men are passionate about serving others and are using their careers in racing as a means to spread that message.We also had the opportunity to meet three of the pastors for Motor Racing Outreach (MRO) and can't help but feel the Lord bringing us together again soon.Such is the path that I have personally taken as a business owner, founder of a nonprofit and a born again Christian. I love racing, love archery and love our Military and First Responders. God sees that and has blessed me to do what I enjoy, impacting people along the way through connections in those three communities. When we live our lives with open hands and for agendas pointed towards others and not ourselves, He will orchestrate things that only He can and we get to be a part of that work. That happened every day in Daytona and I am excited to continue these partnerships into the future and change lives. Fast cars, bows and arrows, all for the red, white and blue. Boogity boogity boogity, let's go racin' boys!You can connect with Be Still Retreats on Facebook and Instagram and visit their website at www.https://bestillretreats.orgFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

As far back as he can remember, Jeremy Walker has been passionate about the outdoors. When he wasn't playing sports, you could find him in the woods or on a lake or stream somewhere. Walker also has a special bond with his grandfather who shares a similar love for family and hunting.In spite of the hectic schedule that comes with being on Active Duty and moving around the country,  Jeremy carved out some time as he does each fall to head to his native Pennsylvania to hunt with "Paps". As the executive producer for Backcountry Traditions, he was able to witness a great moment with his grandad and capture it all on film for his production called "Home". Debuting at The Badlands Film Festival at the 2023 ATA Show in Indianapolis, I was moved by Jeremy's work as it brought back memories of hunts from my youth and time spent with family and friends in the outdoors. I've never met "Paps" but couldn't help but feel the excitement they experienced in the blind that day on a hunt they will both remember forever.The career Marine has always enjoyed filming his outdoor adventures and telling a story from behind the lens. "Home" is a heartwarming look at the bond between a grandfather and his grandson and proof that our best days spent in the field don't have to end with a trip to the taxidermist.HHA Sports is proud to sponsor Jeremy and Backcountry Traditions as they produce quality content that delivers far more than just glimpses of the latest gadgets and grip and grins. We all have stories to tell from our years spent with family and friends in the outdoors and I look forward to seeing more of Walker's on the big screen.We want to thank Jeremy for his service but also for sharing these real, candid moments that will continue to resonate with viewers with each new film. You can follow Backcountry Traditions on YouTube and follow them and Jeremy on Facebook and Instagram.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

People have two choices when faced with setbacks. We can either cave under the pressure of the hand we were dealt or we can embrace our new life with a renewed passion and purpose. Five minutes into my conversation with Jason Tabansky and it was clear that he was firmly planted in the latter group.Experiencing a freak, six foot fall but landing on his feet while covering up a wet helicopter in Europe, the US Army Veteran thought nothing at the time of what would quickly become a life changing event. The days, weeks and months that followed were nothing short of terrifying as he would lose all feeling from the neck down, unsure of what the future held. But one thing was certain and that was who held him. A strong Christian, Jason credits his faith with guiding him through the darkest and most difficult season of his life.The detail with which he shares the story brings back the chills from when I heard it for the first time and I could almost feel the fear that he must have experienced in those moments of uncertainty. I cannot thank Jason enough for sharing his story and like so many other Veterans and First Responders who have suffered injuries and trauma, Jason knows that his vulnerability and transparency will speak to someone else going through a similar situation.Gaining feeling back and full use of his arms, Jason would be confined to a wheel chair but don't let that fool you. Outside of his faith and family, archery has been a life saver for Tabansky and something that he continues to excel at after taking it up at a young age. Working at a local archery shop and traveling the US and internationally to compete, the fanatical Green Bay Packers fan is inspiring countless people by living a purpose filled life. From chasing elk and mule deer out West to hunting anything in season in his home state of Texas, Jason knows no limits. Recently named the World Archery America W1 Athlete of The Year, he is showing no signs of slowing down in 2023 and I look forward to the day that I can share the archery range, or even a game at historic Lambeau Field with my new friend and brother in Christ.You can follow Jason on Facebook and InstagramFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

A bear hunt with a handful of disabled Veterans in camp changed the trajectory of Otto Reetz's life forever. Not a Veteran himself, Reetz sat around a fire with a group of men several years ago and left that week knowing that he wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who serve and have served our country. As a result of that trip, Wounded Warriors United was founded and now puts on similar experiences around the country for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members from our home state of Wisconsin.Retiring after years in the construction business, Otto and his wife moved to Gleason in northern Wisconsin to a farm on a dead end country road. Now utilizing that farm as a retreat for those they serve, the Reetzs continue to expand their mission by partnering with passionate groups and individuals in The Badger State. I was introduced to Otto from mutual friend and Wisconsin National Guardsman Peter Thies. Both Thies and his brother have been active supporters of Wounded Warriors United for years, putting on various fundraisers to help fund hunting and fishing excursions for their brothers and sisters in arms.A lifelong outdoorsman, Reetz has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and just how meaningful these trips are to those who need them the most. We talked about a few special hunts that have created memories for not only the Veterans and their families but for Otto as well. Seeing the impact of his work has only fueled his passion and the future is bright for WWU with some exciting things on the horizon in 2023 and beyond.As with any nonprofit organization, Wounded Warriors United is always looking for new partnerships with the betterment of those they serve as the foundation for that connection. If you would like to join Otto and Vickie on their mission, or participate in one of their trips, visit www.woundedwarriorsunitedwi.orgYou can also follow them on Facebook.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

Any pizza fans in the house? Unless you are lactose intolerant, I don't know many people who don't like pizza. And if you are from the Midwest, Brew Pub Lottza Mottza has probably crossed your palate at some point in your life. If not, you are missing out! Being a pizza lover, our freezer always has a few of these cheese infused delicacies poised to hop on the oven.This week, we have the marketing and promotions man, "Mottza" Matt Selvig joining us on the podcast. I've been waiting for this one for a while for a multitude of reasons and it did not disappoint. Just a few months out from partnering with Matt and his team on our largest event to date, I was eager to learn more about what led the Wisconsin native to his position with such a respected brand.Not wanting to share too much, one of my favorite parts of the show was his story as an aspiring play by play announcer in junior high and being able to hop in the booth with a nationally renowned broadcaster as part of a school project. Taking to the air waves himself years later, Selvig would be a morning host for a Christian radio station before landing a gig in the food industry and one step closer to his current job with Brew Pub.Learning the value of giving back at an early age and now working for a family owned company that holds that at the top of their list of core values, Matt gets to do what he loves each day and bless others by paying it forward. Thanks to mutual friend Kurt Walbeck of Outdoor Bound TV, HHAUSA and Brew Pub will be joining forces outside of Madison Wisconsin the weekend of April 29th and 30th to positively impact the lives of Veterans, First Responders and Law Enforcement Officers. We pray that this is the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship and can't wait for the snow to melt, the arrows to start flying and for the pizza truck to roll into our state capitol. Matt, you still have a few months to sharpen up those archery skills and if you need a bow sight, I know a guy!To learn more about Mission 24 and our other HHAUSA events in 2023, visit www.hhausa.orgFollow Brew Pub Lotzza Motzza on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube and visit their website at www.bernatellos.comFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

To be in the same room with four of my closest friends is rare in and of itself. Being able to record a podcast on one of my most memorable days ever at the ATA Show while it was still fresh with these guys was a blessing and a night I will never forget.All prior guests on the podcast, the idea hit me a week prior to the show for Aaron Ritter, Al Quackenbush, Chad Stillman, Logan Chartrand and myself to jump on here and give a first hand account of our Thursday in real time. Sleep deprived from a very long day that began with the Target The Heart Prayer Breakfast and concluded with the Badlands Film Festival, the conversation got deep at times and also went off the rails with a shoutout to internet legend LeRoy Jenkins.This is by far one of the rawest, in the moment conversations we have ever captured on a podcast and words do little to describe how truly special it was. While we all came to Indianapolis with an agenda related to our own professions and place within the archery industry, the conversations about life, faith and battling through day to day struggles were what drew us closer as a group. That transparency also allowed each of us to impact others throughout the week and continue to grow the tightknit circle that is HHAUSA.Five different men, five different walks of life with five different stories. All tied together by a common thread to be better men than we were the day before and bring about positive change to others in our own unique way. Great stuff and worthy of a sequel in the months ahead. We promise to be well rested for Part 2. Stay tuned!You can connect with Aaron, Al, Chad and Logan on Facebook and InstagramFor more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com

What happens when two college kids with a shared passion for filming your hunts cross paths? In rare instances it produces a top tier streaming show and content creation company. Such is the case with Brennen Nading, The Breaking Point TV and Black Stamp Media. Mike Mancl was the other have of that duo in what has now turned into one of the most respected brands in the outdoor space.We are fortunate enough to work with these guys on both the for profit and nonprofit side of things and the relationship has been a win win for everyone. Now ten seasons into The Breaking Point, Brennan, Mike and crew had a fall for the ages knocking down 25 bucks on camera across the Midwest. Hunting both private and public lands, these boys know how to get it done when it comes to chasing whitetails and an occasional muley. They don't get much downtime before their outdoor show tour begins in February where they'll meet fans, old and new, and then its on to spring turkey season.Brennen handles the majority of the partner relationships and the social media side of things while Mike is the mastermind when it comes to editing. Together, along with the rest of The BHP Team, they continue to churn out some of the best footage in the outdoor space. But that alone wouldn't pay the bills and the content creation side of things allows them to put their talents to use promoting some great brands across a variety of markets. While they're know to grab the cameras and head to the closest chapel to document your wedding day, I'd tell you to shy away from calling them when the deer are on the move.Brennen's biggest influence on his life and his road to the outdoors was through his late father, whom he lost last year. Still feeling his presence when he hits the woods,  Brennen is passionate about the work we are doing with HHAUSA as the elder Nading was a Veteran who served our country. Having been to his share of our 3D shoots over the past few summers, he has seen firsthand the impact that we are having in the Veteran and First Responder community.Mark your calendars for July 8th and 9th as we head to Warrens for Mission 25 at the Tomah Warrens Sportsman's Alliance. Brennen and his team will be there, facing off in a weekend of friendly competition with our other close friend and his posse, Sam Ubl from Chase Nation. It's an event that you will not want to miss and we are excited to bring these two great groups together to rally around the cause that is HHAUSA.While there's no grass growing beneath Brennen Nading's feet, they do have some availability should you need any film, photography or social media work done. To get in touch with Brennen, you can track him down on Instagram and Facebook and find The Breaking Point TV there as well and subscribe to their YouTube channel.For more information about HHAUSA and how you can support our mission, visit www.hhausa.orgTo purchases HHAUSA hats, shirts, challenge coins and tumblers, visit www.hhasports.com