The Rolling Thunder podcast

In this episode of First Light, Chuck Halford reflects on the importance of paying attention—not just in the small details of life, but in the most important relationship we have: our walk with the Lord. He shares how being present and attentive can shape our faith, our decisions, and the way we live each day. Drawing from Scripture, Chuck reminds us to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2), and to “pay attention to what you hear. With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and still more will be added to you” (Mark 4:24). This episode calls us to slow down, tune in, and pay attention to the One who is always present and guiding us.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck Halford reflects on the importance of paying attention—not just in the small details of life, but in the most important relationship we have: our walk with the Lord. He shares how being present and attentive can shape our faith, our decisions, and the way we live each day. Drawing from Scripture, Chuck reminds us to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2), and to “pay attention to what you hear. With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and still more will be added to you” (Mark 4:24). This episode calls us to slow down, tune in, and pay attention to the One who is always present and guiding us.

In this episode of the First Light Podcast, Chuck reflects on lessons drawn from his past hunting spots and the simple tools that guided him—like carrying a compass into the field. Just as a compass points you in the right direction, he explains how faith in the Lord provides direction for life. The object of your faith, he reminds us, is what you will ultimately worship. Chuck also shares a powerful reminder: “You Can Trust the Sun.” Each sunrise declares God's presence and prominence, a daily assurance that He is constant and unchanging. Through hunting stories, Scripture, and personal reflection, this episode encourages listeners to keep their eyes fixed on the true source of direction and strength.

In this episode, Spence gets on the phone with Kenny Winters of Winter Timber Outdoors to talk about his newest store location in Auburn, Alabama. The two dive into the vision behind the shop, the importance of location, and what makes the concept stand out. They also reflect on the value of seeing a brick-and-mortar storefront thrive in today's waterfowl industry—a reminder that community, tradition, and face-to-face connections are still at the heart of the business.

Chuck unpacks The Four F's — Friends, Foundation, Focus, and Faith — and how each plays a vital role in building a meaningful and God-centered life. He explores how these guiding principles can shape a believer's journey by pursuing a deeper, more purposeful life goal. Chuck reminds listeners that while our paths may shift, and life's direction can change over time, God remains constant — present in every decision, every step, and every season. With a blend of Scripture, personal insight, and practical wisdom, this episode offers encouragement for keeping faith at the center, no matter where life leads.

In this episode, Chuck Halford continues exploring The Four F's — Friends, Foundation, Focus, and Faith — timeless principles for living a God-centered life. He focuses on the first two, Friends and Foundation, sharing how meaningful relationships and a solid grounding in Scripture can guide believers through every season. Chuck emphasizes that “success” isn't measured by worldly standards, but by pursuing a life rooted in God's presence and purpose. With heartfelt stories and biblical insight, this episode lays the groundwork for a deeper discussion that continues in the next installment.

In this special episode, we sit down at the Ducks Unlimited Podcast booth, from inside the DUX Expo, to talk all things waterfowl. From the energy of the show floor to the latest gear announcements, the crew dives into what made this year's expo in Memphis one to remember. We chat about the big news from Rogue Ammo, including the drop of their new steel #6s, and get firsthand reactions from the team. Whether you missed the event or just want to relive it, this episode brings the DUX experience straight to your ears.

In this heartfelt series, Spence sits down with his family to reflect on the life and legacy of their late grandfather, Berl Bartley Gary Jr, better known as Pop to those close. Through stories, laughter, and reflection, they explore the pivotal decisions Berl made and how those choices shaped generations to come. This series is a tribute to a man whose strength and values left a lasting mark on his family — a legacy worth remembering.

We're right in the thick of tradeshow season, and Spence sits down with the Road Dawgs to talk all about it. From the highs of meeting fellow hunters and industry leaders to the not-so-glamorous grind of life on the road, nothing's off the table! The Dawgs share some hilarious moments, talk hunting, and give a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like living the Road Dawg life—both in and out of the booth.

In this heartfelt series, Spence sits down with his family to reflect on the life and legacy of their late grandfather, Berl Bartley Gary Jr, better known as Pop to those close. Through stories, laughter, and reflection, they explore the pivotal decisions Berl made and how those choices shaped generations to come. This series is a tribute to a man whose strength and values left a lasting mark on his family — a legacy worth remembering.

In this heartfelt episode, Spence sits down with his family to reflect on the life and legacy of their late grandfather, Berl Bartley Gary Jr, better known as Pop to those close. Through stories, laughter, and reflection, they explore the pivotal decisions Berl made and how those choices shaped generations to come. This series is a tribute to a man whose strength and values left a lasting mark on his family — a legacy worth remembering.

This week on the podcast, Spence is joined by Matt Messer from Cotton Gin Smokers, who stopped by the shop to fire up the smoker and treat the crew to a killer lunch. They dive into all things barbecue—from techniques and flavor to what sets Cotton Gin apart—and talk through the journey that led Matt to turn his passion into a business. It's a laid-back conversation full of great food, good stories, and even better friends.

This week, we're talking machines! One of the most critical steps in building our duck calls begins in the machine shop. Every call we make passes through one of our four HAAS     machine—starting as a solid rod of acrylic and ending as a precision-cut duck call blank. Spence is joined by Daniel, Jay, and Russ—our three machinists who help keep the Rolling Thunder world turning. The guys dive into the machines they run, how they use them to craft our calls, and share their backgrounds and experiences working with large CNC equipment.

It's time for Collect No. 6! The LA cut—known for its raspy tone from top to bottom—has been one of our most requested calls for a while now. Well, we heard you, and the guys have delivered. This week, Drake Levey and Riley Bennett from our tuning room sit down with Spence to talk about the new call model, the BruteLA, dropping July 7th. It also makes up this month's batch of 40 Collect Calls.

Giving back to the community is one of the most importnat things for Rolling Thunder, wether it's hosting a quick lunch for the local guys or setting up a charity golf scramble, we enjoy it all! This week Spence is joined by Haley Duffey from the Carl Perkins Center here in Somerville. Years ago Spence called Haley and asked if he and some friends could donate leftover money from a golf scramble to the Carl Perkins Center, and ever since that day our golf scrambled has donated all proceeds to Haley in hopes of making a lasing impact on the lives of young children. Haley gives us insght on her job, and how they work with young children everyday to make life better!

Live at the shop! This one was a special one for many reasons, we had our 7th annual Charity Golf Scramble, live auctions, and a whole hog served by the one and only, Malcom Reed. Malcom started "HowtoBBQright" over 15 years ago, and today Spence is sitting down with he and his team to learn a little more about what goes on behind the scenes with big barbecue! Being their first time at the Rolling Thunder Headquarters, we had to show them a good time with a huge turnout!  When Malcom first heard about this event, they not only wanted to particiapte - but donate a whole hog and 16 butts to feed everyone at the event! We can't thank Malcom, his wife, and his team members enough for their time and the amazing food.

It's officially Golf Scramble weekend!! The whole hog is on the smoker, the guys got their practice round in this morning, and the shop is full of people! It's pure chaos here at the shop, but we love it. Sit down with Spence as he catches up with the Davidson brothers after their recent hunting trip out west. The guys talk turkey and get into some controversial topics, as well as go over the whole weekend that's coming up!

This week, we're covering a bit of everything! Turkey season has wrapped up, and we're joined by longtime friend and Rolling Thunder team member, Chris Spencer — Also Delta Waterfowl's Regional Director for Alabama. No stranger to the mic, Chris previously hosted our podcast, but now it's his turn to do the talking. He gives us the inside scoop on what's happening at Delta Waterfowl and shares some exciting updates from his world. Plus, Jacob German and Spence dive into details about the upcoming Rolling Thunder Golf Scramble on June 7th — don't miss it!

Employees of Rolling Thunder are no stranger to having cameras around, but there are a few that tend to stay behind the scenes. Join Spence for episode 178 as he introduces Rolling Thunder's "Hen House", the girls of the shop that make a lot of things possible! Madi Thomas, Maddie Halford, and Libby Flanagan give you some of the day to day life that happens in the shipping room.

It's almost time for Collect #5, and this month the design hits home a little harder for some. The Gadsden Flag, displayed on the barrel of the call, is a representation of not giving up our liberties or freedoms as a nation. In this episode, Spence talks about current events in today's economy, and Aaron Blackwood, one of Rolling Thunder's longest-serving employees, gives insight into how his service in the US Marine Corps has helped influence this months collect call.

The guys have brought the podcast back to the shop! To celebrate an amazing turkey season, the guys rolled out the podast table and started frying some turkey. Jacob German, our marketing director, and Lanier Bonner, our leathermaker, sit down with Spence to talk about how their season has gone so far!

Join us for a sit down with Trent Shell and Chris Figge , a Missouri park ranger who was gracious enough to let us invade his home turf to chase a turkey or two. Let's talk ducks , turkeys , the state of hunting and listen to a Park Ranger story or two. Thanks for listening , share this episode with a friend , and as always - we'll catch you on the next one!

In this heartwarming episode of the Rolling Thunder Podcast, Chris is in the shop for a different kind of rodeo — a Turkey Rodeo! Tune in as he sits down with a group of young hunters fresh off their first successful turkey hunts. These kids share their excitement, nerves, and stories from the hunt, all with the kind of wide-eyed wonder that reminds us why we fell in love with turkey hunting in the first place. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is a celebration of tradition, mentorship, and the next generation of turkey hunters. Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy the smiles and stories that only a first turkey can bring.  And as always - we'll catch you on the next one.

Pop into the RTGC Booth at NWTF and take a couple of minutes to meet - the ROAD DOGS.    As these fellas get ready to start the '25 Trade Show tour , we get a quick introduction into who they are , some of the cool things Rolling Thunder dropped at NWTF , and an invtite to meet 'em on the road.   Thanks for listening , share this episode with a friend and as always - we'll catch you on the next one!

This week Chris catches up with Roll Tide Riles himself - Mr. Riley Bennett. If you didn't know, RIley is one half of the tuning team at Rolling Thunder and on this week's episode we recap duck season , have a laugh or two , and get a little piece of the story that led Riley to his love for calling ducks and to the calls that make it possible.   Thanks for joining us , leave us a rating and review and as always - we'll catch you on the next one. 

Have questions about the Collect series? Well on this episode Spence and Mr. Jacob German fill Chris in on some of the details.    Mark your calendars and pay attention to our social media channels and don't miss each month's drop!

On this episode , Chris catches up with Cody and Robbie from More Than A Calling. These are two followers of Jesus that - along with the rest of the MTAC team - are doing some really cool work in connecting other waterfowlers with Christ.   Season 3 of The Fly By is now available on amazon and at www.morethanacalling.com- so tune in and hear a little more about the project and the folks behind it. Make sure to check 'em out on instagram @morethanacalling .   Thanks for tuning in and as always - we'll catch you on the next one. See ya in the blind.

This week we had the privilege to sit down with Ich Stewart and Blakley Cobb with The Public Timber project. These guys are part of a team that is doing their best to unite the public land hunters of Arkansas and make the experience better for everyone who steps foot on public ground.   With some cool stuff underway and some big plans for the future - take a listen and get to know a little bit more about the project and what they are hoping to accomplish. If you haven't already, check them out on instagram @thepublictimberproject or shoot them an email at publictimberproject@gmail.com   Thanks for tuning in!  If you enjoy the show leave us a rating, share the show with a friend, and as always - we"ll catch you on the next one.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of duck hunting and waterfowl conservation with Josh Osborn from the Forbes Biological Station, one of the leading waterfowl research centers in the U.S. Discover some of the science behind duck behavior, migration patterns, and habitat management that impacts us as hunters and conservationists alike. Learn how research at Forbes Biological Station helps balance sustainable hunting practices with waterfowl conservation efforts. Whether you're a seasoned duck hunter or just a wildlife enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights to enhance your understanding of the sport and its ecological importance.

There is not much better than watching a dog do what it was created to do.    This week Chris sits down for a few minutes with Blake Haithcoat of Sinking Creek kennels and we get a little bit of his story and how he became a "dog guy".   Thanks for listening , and as always - we'll catch you on the next one.

On this week's episode we sit down in Chene's Mephis location with Mr. Jeff Jones.   We talk about the success of the Stuttgart store launch , talk a little duck hunting , and hear some of Mr. jeff's story and how his career led him to things that were #builtbetter.   We hope you enjoy this episode , and as always - we'll catch you on the next one! 

Join us for a sitdown at SEMO Outfitters with our buddies Shane Garner , Kyle Wojo , and Lane Dunning after the second split opener.   Shane has one heck of an operation , and great people around camp. If you haven't already - give them a look! Let's talk about pressure , managing the resource , and whether or not duck hunting is better or worse on an east wind.   Thanks for listening and as always - we'll catch you on the next one.

Join us as we sit down with Mr. David Schuessler and get the ins and out of Ducks Unlimited's "Into the Vault" event!   A conservation success story that came out of a global pandemic - there are some pretty unique pieces available in this year's event. Here is the backstory as well as all the details that you needto know so that you can own a piece of history!   Thanks for listening , leave us a rating and a review - and as always - we'll catch you on the next one.

This week we wrap up "Origins" - a conversation with Spence , Chuck , and Hollis about life , hunting buddies , memories , and lessons. We hope you enjoy this two part episode - if you missed last week go check out Episode 162!  Here's to windy days , understanding wives ,warm coats , and waders that don't leak. Here's to old decoys and guns that repeat. Here's to cupped wings , clean kills , and old dogs. Here's to good friends , and God willing , to one more season. As always we are so grateful for your support , if you enjoy the show write us a rating , leave us a review , and share it witha friend. We'll catch you on the next one.

Tune in this week for Part 1 of “Origins”. A conversation with Spencer , his dad Chuck , and his Uncle Hollis.    We get to dive into a bit of the Halford story , unpacking how Chuck and Hollis ended up on their first duck hunt that has ultimately led us to where Rolling Thunder is today.   We get to hear some old hunting stories and reminiscence about memorable hunts , old dogs , and preaching squirrels.    Hope you enjoy this week's episode - tune in next week for Part 2. We'll catch you on the next one.

This week we catch up with long time friend and mastermind behind Lite boots - Mr. Brooks Tinsley.   We recap his recent trip to Canada with our good buddy Thomas Gilpin , talk water , talk ducks , and talk a little bit about The Island. Come along with us!   As always we are so grateful for you listening to the podcast - if you enjoy it write us a review , leave us a rating and share it with a friend! We'll catch you on the next one.

Pop in to the Rolling Thunder booth with us and catch up with a few of our friends at this year's Chene Gear Film Festival.   This event is one heck of a good time.   As always , leave us a review , give us a rating , and share this podcast with a friend. We'll catch you on the next one.

This week we go back to a conversation from last January between Spence , Jeff Farmer , and Keith Allen while sitting in the tower at White Oaks. As duck season approaches we thought it was a fitting time to pull this episode out and let you hear Jeff's first podcast appearance.   As always if you enjoy the podcast share it with a friend , write us a review , and leave us a rating! We'll catch you on the next one.

On this episode we have the privilege of sitting down with another champion - Mr. Zack Birge.   Besides being a proven winner and contender on the pro bass fishing circuit , Zack loves waterfowl hunting , habitat work , and passing on the things we love to the next generation. Come on in and talk a little fishing , a little hunting , and learn a lot about Zack.    If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder podcast share it with a friend , write us a review and as always - we'll catch you on the next one. #champslivehere

This week we reach back into the "archives" as Spence , Levi The Real Dr. Grid Guerke , and Roll Tide Riles sit down with our friend Hunter Colbert in Somerville and talk about some of the new Kent products.   We are so grateful for your support - if you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave us a rating and write us a review!    As always - we'll see you on the next one. 

Maybe by now you've felt the buzz ... the Road Dogs are getting ready to hit the road in 2025.   In this episode Spence takes a few minutes and gives a few more details on what it means to become the next Road Dog.   If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave us a rating , and write a review! And as always - we'll see you on the next one.

Two episodes in one week? Well how 'bout that.   Here's another look into the calling contests from the BSOD Bonanza! This episode features our two-man contest - a fun twist on a regular calling routine.   Grab your popcorn and your duck call and let's see how these teams do.   Adn as always - catch you on the next one.

Hold on to your hats and come on in to the live commentary booth for the West Tennessee Cutdown Classic.   Chris Spencer , Riley Bennett , Reece Groves , Chris Steeples , Drake Levey , Holt Gilliam , and Spence Halford all take a turn on the headset as the guys talks duck calling , football , and whether or not Reece is going to eat a roll covered in dirt.   While its not our typical episode we think you'll enjoy this roller coaster of emotion - so come along for the ride.    We'll see you on the next one. Get your own BSOD HERE

This episode features part one with Stephen Sowell - the R3 program director for Delta Waterfowl.  Stephen is involved in some incredible projects at colleges and universities right here in our own back yards. So listen up and learn how you can get involved to help recruit , retain , and reactivate waterfowl hunters throughout North America.    If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave us a rating , and write a review!   We'll see you on the next one.

Prop your feet up and sit with us for a conversation with Kyle Wojociechowski. Kyle is one of the select few to ever sleep on the shop floor , a waterfowl guide, and a great friend of Rolling Thunder. Let's talk deer , geese , ducks , and SEMO Outfitters! If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave us a rating , and write a review! And as always - we'll see you on the next one.

Fly fishing. Mojos. Arkansas Trees. Dove Hunting. Dog Care. BSOD.   Crack a cold one , buckle up , and come along for the ride with Spence , Chris , and the Duck Dog Vet himself - Mr. Matt Ryan.   If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave a rating , and write a review!   We'll see you on the next one.

Pull up a chair and join us as Chris sits down with Travis Thompson - founder of All Florida and a champion for saving Florida's wild spaces.   R3 , conservation , The Right to Fish and Hunt , ranchin' , and of course ducks - this episode covers some ground.   If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave a rating , and write a review!   We'll see you on the next one.   https://allfla.org/r2fh/

On this episode join Spence and Chris for a sit down with Mr. Lanier Bonner - the mastermind behind the leather shop here at Rolling Thunder. Head on over to our Youtube , Facebook , and Instagram pages as we release the film - Lanier Bonner. If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast , share it with a friend , leave a rating , and write a review! We'll see you on the next one.

We're back. On this episode Chris sits down in the shop with Drake and Riley to go over a few details of the new Two Stroke.  If you enjoy the Rolling Thunder Podcast, share it with a friend, leave a rating , and write a review! We'll see ya on the next one.