Wild Strength Podcast

Live from the Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo, Whitney sits down with Dan Gates, who led the fight on Colorado's Proposition 127 to keep mountain lion hunting alive. They discuss the ongoing challenges and victories in the realm of hunting and conservation and emphasize the importance of grassroots movements and individual engagement in legislative battles against anti-hunting initiatives. The conversation highlights the need for a consistent message against opposition, and the significance of science-based wildlife management. They emphasize the role of education in changing perceptions about hunting and wildlife management, and the necessity of building a coalition of supporters to advocate for sustainable practices.  This conversation is in collaboration with the Through the Gates Podcast and Rokslide's Rokcast.

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, Whitney speaks with Kevin Timm, founder of Seek Outside, about his passion for the outdoors and the importance of quality gear for hunting and outdoor experiences. The conversation dives into the significance of investing in quality sleep systems and the philosophy behind Seek Outside's approach to innovation and creating quality gear. Kevin emphasizes the importance of testing gear in real-world conditions to ensure reliability and performance. 

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, Whitney sits down with Draya Grangroth– a small business owner, hunting guide, and author who has spent most of her life hunting and in the outdoors. They discuss the healing powers of wild places, the importance of solo hunting for personal empowerment, and the transformative experiences that come from being in the outdoors. Draya shares a journey of life lessons learned in the mountains and the connection between hunting, sharing wild places with others, and mental health. The conversation ends talking about Draya's journey to becoming a hunting guide and her experiences along the way. 

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, Whitney sits down with Kenneth Thrall, a lifelong hunter and employee at Kifaru International. They discuss the essential elements of hunting- emphasizing the importance of preparation, mindset, and experience in the field. The conversations underscores the value of spending time outdoors, building confidence, and developing proficiency with weapons, while also acknowledging the unpredictability of hunting and the need for a respectful approach to wildlife. 

Whitney sits down with Garrett Walker, who started High Alpine Outdoors - an outfitter for fly fishing and ice fishing in Colorado. Garrett was a mountaineer for years before he got into hunting and fishing. He talks about how he first got into chasing critters and how it became a passion of his over time, leading to the start of his outfit. Whitney and Garrett also discuss balancing work and being outdoors and share a few hunting stories.

Whitney sits down with 16-year old Diego Otero, who founded MainBeam Addiction at just 9 years old! Diego started MainBeam Addiction to inspire youth to engage in hunting and outdoor activities. Diego talks about all of the hunts he has been on since getting his hunters education certification at 8 and how he balances school, hunting, and running a business. 

Join Whitney in the first solo episode of the Wild Strength podcast where she goes over the 2024 hunting season, a look into the 2025 season, a new podcast update, and answers questions from her Instagram story.  

In this episode of the Wild Strength podcast, Whitney interviews Emily Valdovinos, a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force and a seasoned strength and conditioning coach. Emily shares her journey from enlisted to officer, her experiences in SERE training, and her transition to a physical medicine role in the Air Force. She discusses her passion for tactical strength and conditioning, the importance of building relationships in coaching, and her steps to becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Emily also highlights her role in mentoring women in the military and the challenges and triumphs she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. They emphasize the need for resilience and mental toughness in candidates, particularly women, who aspire to join Special Warfare and understanding the physiological differences in training. Ultimately, they advocate for a coaching approach that focuses on human performance and individual needs. Takeaways: -Emily has over 12 years of experience in strength and conditioning coaching. -Emily's journey included setbacks that led her to a fulfilling career path. -Building relationships is crucial in coaching, especially in the military. -Trust and buy-in are essential for effective coaching and mentorship. -Emily emphasizes the importance of recovery and optimizing training. -Mentoring women in the military helps bridge gaps and foster inclusivity. -Mental resilience is key for women in physically demanding roles. -Training for women should consider physiological differences but not be vastly different. -Individualized training approaches can enhance performance for all candidates. -Coaches should focus on the human aspect of training, not just the physical.

Jon Fischer shares his journey to running ultra marathons and highlights the role of ultra running in his personal development and the accountability required for growth. Jon also talks about being a SERE specialist in the Air Force and discusses the challenges he faced during training, the importance of resilience, and how he learned to embrace discomfort. The conversation delves into the significance of mindset, self-compassion, and the balance between helping others and taking care of oneself. Jon also shares a personal story that led him to choose life over suicidal thoughts and how embracing discomfort through running transformed his perspective on resilience and community. Jon emphasizes the importance of accepting help from others and the lessons learned from ultra running, including the value of companionship and the strength found in vulnerability. He also highlights his commitment to supporting veterans through his upcoming ultra marathons, showcasing the power of using personal experiences to inspire and uplift others. Takeaways: - John's initial desire to help people led him to the military. - Building resilience requires volunteering for discomfort. - Mindset is crucial for overcoming challenges and adversity. - Self-compassion is essential for personal growth and wellness. - Accountability is necessary for recognizing personal flaws. - Awareness of one's own needs is vital for effective service to others. - Ultra running served as a survival strategy and a path to self-discovery. - Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth and resilience. - Vulnerability allows for deeper connections and acceptance of help. - Life is a marathon, not a sprint; progress is about consistency, not speed. - The lessons learned in ultra running can be applied to everyday life. - Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. - Movement is medicine; physical activity can aid mental health. - Choosing to be strong in adversity leads to greater resilience.

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, I sit down with Drew Miles-- the founder of Tricer Tripods. Drew shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the hunting industry. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, experience over formal education, and the role of faith in his life and business. The conversation explores themes of breaking generational cycles, the significance of authenticity in business, and the learning curve associated with both hunting and entrepreneurship. Drew's story serves as an inspiration for those looking to pursue their passions and make a difference in their lives and the lives of others. Takeaways: Drew emphasizes that success comes from hard work and perseverance. Experience in the field is more valuable than formal education. Breaking generational cycles is possible through conscious effort. Faith plays a crucial role in Drew's life and business decisions. Authenticity in business fosters trust and loyalty among customers. Drew's journey illustrates the importance of learning from failures. The hunting experience is a continuous learning process. Drew believes in the power of optimism and a positive mindset. Surrounding yourself with knowledgeable people is key to growth. Drew's success with Tricer Tripods is attributed to innovation and quality.

In this episode of the Wild Strength podcast, Whitney sits down with Ryan Padgett, an Air Force veteran and current law enforcement chaplain. Ryan helps lead a nonprofit (Bold Face Fly Fishing) focused on helping military personnel and first responders through fly fishing. In this conversation, they discuss the importance of identity, the challenges of transitioning from military life, and the role of chaplaincy in trauma counseling. Ryan shares insights on coping with identity loss, the significance of outdoor activities for mental health, and the value of relationships in healing. The conversation emphasizes the need to grieve losses, embrace discomfort, and find strength in nature.

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, Whitney and Brian discuss their hunting experiences, focusing on the transition from whitetail to elk hunting. They explore the importance of understanding wind and thermals, the need for patience and strategy in elk hunting, and the impact of hunting media on perceptions of the sport. Brian shares valuable gear recommendations for western hunting and emphasizes the significance of learning from mistakes. The conversation also touches on the essence of 'wild strength' in hunting and the purpose of the Western Rookie Podcast, which aims to help newcomers navigate the complexities of western hunting.

In this episode, Armando Martinez, creator of The Bow Hitch, talks about how he grew up hunting and shares his journey from being a firefighter to starting his own business: Simply Savage Solutions. We touch on the importance of starting small and learning the basics in hunting, just like in any other field and talk about the value of surrounding yourself with experienced hunters and learning from them. Armando then shares the story behind the creation of The Bow Hitch and how it solves the problem of carrying a bow while hunting... because carrying your bow sucks! He emphasizes the importance of simplicity in product design and the power of building relationships to help grow a brand and business. We wrap up talking about the Random Acts of Kindness initiative Armando started, which has grown each year and continues to have a positive impact on people's lives!

In this conversation, Kerri McAllister, a retired Green Beret, discusses his experience with the Tactical Human Optimization and Rapid Rehabilitation and Reconditioning (THOR3) program and how it helped him prolong his military career and improve his overall health. He highlights the importance of the holistic approach to health and performance, including strength training, nutrition, physical therapy, and sports psychology. Kerri also shares his transition from military life to becoming a professional adventurer, with a focus on hunting and outdoor activities. They explore the challenges of work-life balance and the loss of identity that can occur after leaving the military. They also discuss the importance of finding a new mission and purpose in life, as well as the camaraderie and shared hardships found in both the military and hunting communities. Kerri closes sharing his upcoming adventure in Alaska learning how to guide and the physical and mental preparation required for it.

In this week's episode, Joe Miles discusses his passion for chasing whitetails with a bow and shares his experiences hunting whitetail deer in different parts of the country. This passion for chasing whitetail led Joe to creating and founding Asio Gear, a camouflage line specifically for hunting in the whitetail woods. We talk about the importance of camo patterns that blend well with the environment and clothing materials that allow for stealthy movement. Joe also shares stories and experiences hunting in Africa and all over the world.

In this episode I sit down with Zach Hanson, an adult onset hunter and avid trapper, to discuss the benefits of trapping, the challenges it presents, and its role in conservation. Zach also dives into how trapping can enhance hunting skills and provide a deeper understanding of animal behavior. He highlights various aspects of trapping, including live trapping, trapping regulations, ethics, and the challenges of trapping on public land. We wrap up emphasizing the conservation aspect of trapping and the importance of teaching future generations about trapping and the outdoors. Wild Strength, to Zach, means spending time in the wilderness and building the physical and mental strength needed to overcome the challenges of hunting, trapping, and fishing.

One of these things is not like the other! But I promise they all relate and lead to a great conversation. In this episode I sit down with Coach Hunter Schurrer, long time strength and conditioning coach and current Vice President of Training at the University of Health and Performance. We discuss the importance of the human aspect in coaching, the value of the process in training, and the need for a personalized approach. We also touch on the significance of trust, accountability, and understanding the 'why' behind training. We go on to emphasize the importance of longevity and recovery, and caution against chasing after the latest trends and fads in fitness. The conversation leads into Hunter sharing his journey of bettering himself and the importance of self-care for coaches and leaders. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and emotional openness, both in personal and professional relationships and encourages coaches to model vulnerability and create a safe space for others to open up. Wild strength, to Hunter, means having the strength to go through unconventional challenges and finding joy in pushing the limits.

In this conversation with Shannon, we explore the importance of setting boundaries, being vulnerable, and embracing play and joy in order to prioritize mental and physical well-being. We also emphasize the need to shift focus from outcome-oriented goals to habit-based goals and the importance of self-compassion and resilience in the process. We go on to talk about the significance of recognizing and addressing barriers that prevent personal growth and highlight the bravery required to make changes and the transformative power of physical fitness in building strength and resilience.

In this episode of the Wild Strength Podcast, Whitney sits down with Luke Caudillo from Gladiator Unfiltered. They discuss Luke's background as a former UFC fighter and his transition into the outdoor industry. They also explore the similarities between fighting and hunting, emphasizing the competitive nature and the camaraderie found in both activities. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of bow hunting as well as the importance of seeking help and guidance from experienced individuals. They also discuss the importance of humility, learning, and being true to oneself. The conversation ends highlighting the resilience and mental strength required in both fighting and hunting, and the rewards that come from overcoming challenges.

In this episode, Susan Lopez, a registered dietitian, joins me in discussing the importance of nutrition for both hunters and tactical athletes and the common misconceptions surrounding nutrition. Susan highlights the negative effects of chronic under-eating and the importance of fueling the body properly for optimal performance and longevity. The conversation covers topics such as intermittent fasting, supplementation, and the role of digestion in metabolism. We also discuss various topics related to performance, including caffeine intake, pre-workout nutrition, hydration, and nutrition for backcountry hunts. Additionally, we explore the nutritional considerations for extended periods of physical activity, such as backcountry hunts, and the importance of fueling adequately before such events.

Live from the Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo: In this episode, Mike Herne, a man who wears many hats, and Josh Walker, former NFL player, discuss their experiences with elk hunting and the skills they've developed over their lives in the pursuit of animals. We talk about the physical and mental preparation required for hunting, the importance of efficiency, and their diversity of hunting experiences. The conversation goes on to cover the challenges and strategies of elk hunting, emphasizing the physical and mental demands of the pursuit and the importance of scouting while staying mobile.

In this week's episode Dr. Preston Ward, founder of MTN Physio, discusses the importance of physical therapy and injury prevention for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts and emphasizes the goal of promoting longevity and overall health in the outdoors. He emphasizes the need for a sports-specific approach to rehabilitation and training, rather than relying solely on general exercises. Dr. Ward also highlights the role of mindset and education in managing pain and overcoming limitations. Lastly, He introduces the Mountain Physio Academy, which is an educational platform that provides evidence-based information, personalized assessments, and exercise programs to help individuals prepare for outdoor activities.

Live from the Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo: Howl For Wildlife is a non-profit working to save the hunt and teach people how hunting is human. Howl For Wildlife is the first action oriented portal where organizations, brands and individuals can work together as one pack, one HOWL to protect wildlife & science based management practices. In this conversation, we talk about what "trophy" hunting really is and what you can do in your area to help move the needle towards keeping hunting alive all over the country. Visit howlforwildlife.org to learn more and show your support!

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Barnes, an expert in strength and conditioning and a hunter himself. We discuss common myths related to training for hunting, backpacking, and preparing for the mountain! We address how progressive overload and endurance training are more important than solely focusing on carrying a heavy pack for miles on end. We also dive into how training for uneven terrain is best achieved by actually spending time hiking and walking on uneven surfaces, rather than relying on balancing exercises on unstable surfaces. It is important to consider the specific terrain and challenges of backcountry hunting when designing a training program. We continue to cover topics such as training for injury prevention and specific exercises for injury prevention, choosing the right footwear, building cardiovascular endurance, alternative methods for building endurance, avoiding intense workouts for backcountry preparation, and the importance of mindful and intentional workouts.

In this conversation, Clint McInnes of Spark Adventures, discusses his journey into hunting and his passion for the outdoors. He shares his experiences in backpacking and camping, as well as his transition into hunting. He then gets into the motivation behind his clothing line, Spark Adventures, which aims to provide outdoor experiences to others. The goal of Spark Adventures is to eliminate barriers to outdoor adventures and inspire people to explore the outdoors and the transformative experience the outdoors offers.

In this episode, Kurt Belding from Western Obsessions TV shares his journey of transitioning from a corporate job to hunting full-time. He discusses the challenges and rewards of archery elk hunting and the importance of setting realistic expectations. Kurt emphasizes the value of finding your own hunting style and not being swayed by others' opinions. He also highlights the mental toughness required for hunting and the importance of training for longevity. Kurt and Whitney also discuss the physical and mental preparation required for elk hunting. They emphasize the importance of endurance and mental fortitude. They also debunk the misconception that rucking with heavy weights is the best training method for elk hunting. Instead, they highlight the need for a holistic approach to fitness, focusing on mental health and overall well-being. They discuss the value of setting short-term goals and the benefits of consistency in fitness. They also explore the concept of doing hard things and the continuous learning journey in hunting. Takeaways: Transitioning to hunting full-time requires a leap of faith and a willingness to pursue your passion. Setting realistic expectations is crucial for enjoying the hunting experience. Finding your own hunting style and not being swayed by others' opinions is important for personal enjoyment and success. Training for mental toughness is just as important as physical fitness when it comes to hunting. Physical preparation for elk hunting requires strength, endurance, and mental fortitude. Rucking with heavy weights is not the most effective training method for elk hunting. Fitness should be viewed as a means to improve mental and physical health, rather than solely for aesthetic purposes. Consistency in fitness is key to long-term success and overall well-being. Setting short-term goals and focusing on day-to-day progress can lead to greater success and satisfaction. Doing hard things and pushing one's limits can lead to personal growth and increased confidence. There is no true off-season in hunting, as there are always opportunities to learn and explore different hunting experiences. Kurt can be found on Instagram at @westernobsessionstv and on his website westernobsessionstv.com.

Explore the intersection of art, conservation, and hunting in this episode featuring Charity Wanecheck, a talented metalsmith, jewelry maker, and passionate outdoors woman. We delve into Charity's journey into the art of custom jewelry making, where she shares her unique approach of using locally-sourced stones and pieces from the mountain west area. We then discuss the complexities of conservation and finding solutions in an imperfect world, while emphasizing the importance of collective effort in making positive change. Finally, Charity speaks to her business model, highlighting her commitment to giving back in meaningful ways.

Step into the world of archery and hunting in this week's episode as I sit down with Robby Weissinger, a professional barebow archer and lifelong hunter. Together we'll dive into growing up as a hunter and the thrill hunting brings. We then get into Robby's transition from shooting a compound bow to a barebow and becoming a professional archer. In the final segment, we delve deep into the mental game of archery, dissecting the crucial role emotions play in achieving consistent excellence. Tune in for a conversation that offers valuable insights into the world of hunting, archery, and mastering the mind.

Curious about what goes on at Western Hunt Fest? Look no further – we've got all the answers right here! In this weeks episode, I sit down with Guy and Jeff, two of the masterminds behind WHF, and dive into all of the questions one could possibly have about the event. The episode wraps up with getting to these two fellas and their different hunting styles and preferences. Tune in for an insider's perspective and discover what makes this event an experience you don't want to miss out on for hunting aficionados everywhere!

Dive into the world of outdoor adventures and hunting with my guest Johanthan McCormick in this week's episode. Johanthan shares his journey of discovering a passion for the great outdoors as an adult, from his move from North Carolina to Utah that ignited his love for the outdoors. We discuss his transition from rifle hunting to the challenge of bow hunting, a transition that sparked an unyielding addiction to the sport. Johanthan also talks about his deep dive into the world of archery, and how he hasn't been able to set his bow down since the beginning! Tune in for a great conversation that illuminates the power of embracing new passions and the thrill of the hunt.

Join me in an episode on the world of strength and conditioning as I sit down with Chris McQuilkin. From his extensive journey in coaching to his current role at Kid Strong, we dissect the critical role of mentorship in shaping a successful career in this dynamic field. We also delve into the intricacies of effective communication with athletes and fundamental skills that pave the way for lasting coaching success. Chris shares insights into the often overlooked realms of social and emotional development within coaching. He also discusses how, beyond the sport itself, it is the guidance of a skilled coach that imparts invaluable life lessons. Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of coaching!

Join me and guests Brianna and Brittnie Curley in a conversation on archery and bowhunting for the ladies! We discuss a variety of women's specific bows and explore diverse brands of gear tailored for the female hunter. Brittnie shares her ambitious quest to hunt all 50 states, and tells about the ones she has hunted thus far. And Brianna shares more of her stories hunting out West after spending most of her time hunting in Florida. Tune in for an insightful and thrilling conversation that captures the spirit of becoming a hunter as a woman! You can find more of Brianna and Brittnie's content by following the Bow Disciples and Archery Shepherd's page on Instagram!

Join me in this week's episode with Dr. Matt Zanis, a Physical Therapist with a unique role working alongside the USA Shooting team. Matt grew up in the great state of Pennsylvania hunting whatever he could chase down, which ultimately led to his interest in working with precision shooter athletes. We dive into the world of shooting sports and explore the intricacies of vision and eye training for the shooting athlete. We also discuss the specialized physical training regimen tailored for shooters, and discover the importance of building a 'movement library' for enhanced efficiency in movement patterns. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or intrigued by the intersection of physical therapy and shooting sports, this episode provides a captivating exploration into the world of precision and performance.

Join me in this week's episode as I sit down with Elizabeth Brownell, who started her hunting journey just three years ago, transitioning from a plant-based diet. Together, we explore her experiences as a rookie hunter, talk about her very first harvest, and dive into things she's learned along the way. Elizabeth shares her thoughts and feelings on bird hunting, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of a newcomer to this challenging and rewarding pursuit. We also delve into the aspects of being a woman in the hunting and outdoors space, discussing our perspectives and experiences. Don't miss this episode that invites you to explore the intersection of personal transformation, outdoor exploration, and the vibrant community of hunters.

Join me in this weeks episode as I sit down with Nate Palin, a former Army Ranger turned human performance professional. Nate and I dive into the concept of the number one SOF truth "humans are more important than hardware." We explore the significance of treating people as humans first and foremost, but also training them in that way as well -- with a conversation around preparing individuals for high stress environments. We then dive into recognizing stress and adversity and how high performers always seek to "touch the fire" -- or challenge themselves in ways that push them beyond their limits. Sometimes in positive ways and sometimes in negative ways!

In this episode, we're continuing the conversation around my favorite uncomfortable topic... mental health! Brad talks about his transition out of the Army to being a strength coach. He goes on to talk about the impact that had on his mental health and some things he personally struggled with. We finish up talking about how close friends and family were a huge help to him as well as the great outdoors.

In today's episode, my guest is Coach Dave Terry. Dave has been a strength and conditioning coach for over 10 years now and has learned how to apply things learned in the weight room to all aspects of life. We get into why Dave got into coaching and how coaching has helped him find a sense of community. We also dive into the importance of being vulnerable as a male and the role a good community has in being able to be open and honest and let your guard down - and the positive impact this has on mental health.

In this episode, Joel and I are stepping on toes here! We talk about training for the backcountry and what makes a good training program. We also talk about scalability for your workouts and what important strength qualities are. Lastly, we dive into general health and how simply moving your body and getting outside can be great for you. Check out what Joel is doing with Hunt Hike Harvest on instagram @hunthikeharvest

In this episode, James and Bri talk about what it's like to hunt on the East coast and in the backcountry out West. They also talk about how they prepare for hunts-- both the physical and nutrition aspects. And lastly, we get into James hat trick OTC elk hunts! Find James and Bri here: @BowDisciples @JamesVisser @BriannaCurley91

Welcome to the Wild Strength podcast where we will talk about all things wild and all things strength related -- and everything in between! With my background and education in strength and conditioning and human performance and my passion for the outdoors and hunting, I really wanted a place where I could tie the two together. I hope you can enjoy the incredible people and conversations as much as I will! These episodes are unfiltered, unedited, and no topic is left off of the table here!