Podcasts about Sandhills

Title: Heaven's JoySpeaker: Nate CeskyScripture: Luke 15:1-10Date: May 11, 2025

The site for one of the most in-demand public golf courses in the country isn't where you would expect. It's in Homer, Nebraska, within the hills of the Danish Alps. Landmand Golf Club is one of several new high level courses in the state. Many of the state's courses remind people of sport's origins.

Title: Holiness is HappinessSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Psalm 1Date: May 04, 2025

Title: What Now?Speaker: Ransom KentScripture: 1 Timothy 1:12-17Date: Apr 27, 2025

Title: The In BetweenSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Acts 28:23-31Date: Apr 20, 2025

A new favorite tradition of mine is heading to the Sandhills of Nebraska in the Spring to look for antlers on our good friend Nate's ranch. This year we had a blast. Enjoy tuning in to hear all kinds of topics ranging mule deer and whitetail hybrids, to working as a cattle rancher. There is so much great information in this one you will definitely enjoy and maybe even re-listen to.    Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Follow Alex: @east2westhunts_alex  Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow Caleb: @calebleedrake  Follow Noel: @noelgandy Follow Ryan: @followthedog_outdoors   Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners:   East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase Old Barn Taxidermy Tell Them The First Gen Hunter Podcast Sent You! My Medic use discount code firstgen15 at checkout to save 15% TideWe Use discount code: firstgen15 at checkout to save 15% Optics Planet Use discount code: fgh5 at checkout to save 5% 360 Sportsmen Use discount code: FIRSTGEN15 Camofire Black Ovis AlienGear Holsters FORLOH Fox River Socks Gunskins Tipton Gun Cleaning Accessories Outdoor Edge Kuiu Tactical Hunting Apparel      

You'd be hard pressed to find a roadside produce stand that doesn't have a few buckets of strawberries for sale (unless they've sold out for the day) around the state. Juicy red fruit has been hitting the market, and reports from across the state indicate good yield so far. Andy makes us aware of a new bacterial issue showing up in the upstate and some symptoms to look for. Peaches and blueberries are moving along, and it looks like it is going to be another heavy yielding year for both crops. Andy and Sarah hit on some points on plum curculio. Phillip gives us an outlook from his side of the midlands “near the lake,” and Zack shares a coastal update. We get a brief update out of Sandhills from Justin as well as a “question of the week,” a submission from Zack about the native Pawpaw. Zack shares some facts about this interesting fruit tree with some help from Phillip, who compares the taste to that of a pina colada. Tell us, have you tasted this funky fruit? What are your thoughts? Oh, we can't forget about the return of the “dad joke.” Thanks to Zack for keeping us chuckling (or rolling our eyes).

Title: Take CourageSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Acts 23:1-11Date: April 6, 2025

Host Bob St. Pierre sits down with Dr. Dirac Twidwell, a professor and research scientist from the University of Nebraska, to talk about his hunting roots and life's mission to save America's last remaining grasslands. Dr. Twidwell explains the concept of the “Green Glacier” of woody vegetation taking over the Great Plains, and why prescribed fire is the most important tool for grassland habitat conservation. He also reports that woody encroachment is now equal to land conversion for agricultural production as the top two factors in habitat loss across the country. Episode Highlights: • Dr. Twidwell explains how his bird hunting trips had been moving west to keep ahead of the “Green Glacier” of woody encroachment into grasslands to find better upland gamebird populations before he even knew of the Green Glacier concept's existence. • The guys discuss Dr. Twidwell's bird hunting roots and how his work to save America's grasslands through science is akin to keeping a promise “to his 8-year-old self.” • Dr. Twidwell also reports The Sandhills of Nebraska as the single most intact grassland remaining on the entire planet. • Learn more about Dr. Twidwell's work on the Working Lands for Wildlife website or read his paper at the Society for Conservation Biology. onX Hunt is a proud supporter of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever and they want to thank everyone who gives back to the birds we all love to hunt and the places they call home. Click this link to get a free month of onX Hunt and then use code PFQF to get 20% off, and a portion will go back to supporting Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever's wildlife habitat mission.

In this special solo episode, Paul takes us on a deeply personal and unforgettable journey to complete his wild turkey Grand Slam. From a scorching August day of reflection to the river valleys of Nebraska's Sandhills, Paul recounts the emotional rollercoaster of his 2024 Merriam's hunt — the final bird needed to seal the deal. You'll hear about the incredible people who helped make it possible, including his friends Mike and Wyatt Larson, and the serendipitous opportunities that led him across the country in pursuit of this elusive subspecies. Through missed shots, intense anticipation, and ultimately success, Paul offers not just a story of a turkey hunt, but a powerful reflection on why we chase these birds in the first place. Packed with laughs, lessons, and even a Grand Slam wild turkey po' boy recipe — this episode is a must-listen for anyone who lives for spring mornings in the woods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Title: A Timely ReminderSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Acts 20:17-38Date: Apr 03, 2025

In this episode, Ben, Morgan, and Andy sit down with one of the founders of Sandhill Slims, a small company making big waves in the meat snack world. They dive into what makes their beef sticks different—from the way their cattle are raised in Nebraska's Sandhills to the unique process that results in a healthier, high-protein snack. If you're looking for a clean, delicious alternative to traditional meat sticks, this is one episode you won't want to miss!Show Notes and LINKS⬇️https://www.sandhillslims.com/

Title: Amongst the Idols of AthensSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Acts 17:16-34Date: Mar 23, 2025

-We've known Charlie for a long time as the SouthPointe Chick-Fil-A operator and also as a former Husker baseball player in the ‘80s…and now he's part of an impressive complex off of I-180 and Cornhusker Highway-For those who haven't been that direction, what does the area look like now? How much has this complex changed Lincoln's ability to attract big time baseball tournaments to the city? -Charlie is the Board Chair for the Complex and Joe Fagler is the Director…1st and Cornhusker HighwayShow sponsored by NEBCOOur Sponsors:* Check out Hims: https://hims.com/EARLYBREAKAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Title: It's About TimeSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Acts 13:1-3Date: Mar 09, 2025

On this week's Friday LIVE Extra podcast, previews of the Winter Lecture Series and the next Sandhills Symphony concert in North Platte.

On this week's Friday LIVE Extra podcast, previews of the Winter Lecture Series and the next Sandhills Symphony concert in North Platte.

North Carolina ranks as the fifth most-visited state in the U.S., welcoming approximately 43 million visitors in 2023. The state's tourism efforts are driven by VisitNC, part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. Scott Peacock, the Director of Marketing for VisitNC, works alongside state tourism director Wit Tuttell and the VisitNC team to implement strategies that attract visitors and boost spending across the state. The Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area CVB collaborates closely with VisitNC to ensure statewide promotions also highlight the Sandhills region, known as the Home of American Golf. In this episode of Paradise in the Pines, Scott Peacock shares insights into VisitNC's mission, the ongoing effects of Hurricane Helene, and what's ahead for North Carolina tourism in 2025. ‪@visitnc‬ #visitnc

Don Cox joins the JMO Podcast to share stories from the past. From the Sandhills in Nebraska, Don and his fishing partner Dave Fehlhafer have been an ice fishing duo going back to the early 90's when they started competed in tournaments. The ice fishing tournament scene attracted many of the top anglers across the midwest in those days. In this interview we hear from Don what it was like to start from the bottom as beginners and work up to become champions against the best competition of the time. We dive deeper into what strategies they implemented and how they evolved as anglers along the way. Nowadays Don and Dave spend their time on the ice more recreationally, traveling and breaking down new water with some of the same vigor and haste as they did in competition. The group has grown with the addition of Don's 4 sons who all adopted the passion for ice fishing in their own right. As an Ice Team member he promotes ice fishing opportunities and shares information through social media or at industry events. The fishing adventures that Don shares on social media each winter are entertaining and informational, just like this podcast.Zulauf Construction - https://www.zulaufconstruction.com701-630-0197Ships Wheel Resort - https://www.shipswheelresort.comTwin Island Sleepers - https://www.twinislandsleepers.comSummit Fishing Equipment - https://summitfishingequipment.comRisovi Taxidermy Studio - www.risovitaxidermystudio.comFlop Box - https://mght.co/JMOWebsite - www.jmopodcast.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/JMOFishingPodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_jmopodcast/

Title: DisasterSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Ruth 1:1-15Date: Dec 01, 2024

S7, E 45: In this episode, I sit down with Erin McKnight, a cattle producer from the Sandhills of Saskatchewan, Canada, to explore her journey and the creation of Ranch Academy. Erin shares how Ranch Academy, her online program, equips hired hands with essential skills and knowledge—covering everything from equipment safety and cattle handling to water system troubleshooting. Originally developed to streamline her own training process, Ranch Academy has grown into a powerful tool that helps ranchers reduce training time, empower new employees, and prevent costly mistakes. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone involved in ranching or interested in the future of hands-on ranch management. So, grab a coffee, tune in, and join us for another conversation that's as real and rugged as ranch life itself. Takeaways • Training employees is crucial for effective ranch management. • Ranch Academy provides practical solutions for common ranching challenges. • Empowering employees leads to increased confidence and productivity. • Customization of training materials is essential for different ranch operations. • Clear communication is key to preventing misunderstandings and mistakes. • Ranch Academy can benefit individuals of all ages, not just employees. • The program includes troubleshooting for various ranching scenarios. • Training can reduce the need for constant supervision of employees. • Understanding the unique needs of each ranch is vital for effective training. • Building trust through communication enhances team dynamics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ranch Academy and Its Purpose 04:56 The Development of Ranch Academy 07:39 Content and Structure of Ranch Academy 10:24 Customization and Accessibility of Ranch Academy 13:47 The Importance of Communication in Ranching 15:40 Conclusion and Resources for Ranch Academy Resources: Westway Feeds - https://westwayfeed.com/  Ranch Academy - https://www.mcknightranch.ca/academy  Move the Ranch Forward - https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

Today’s Peoples Bank Let’s Talk Indianola features Racki Giannakouros and Jake Pole with Sandhills Energy about the IMU Solar Array.

Title: Divine RedirectionSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Jonah 1:3-5, 14-16Date: Sep 15, 2024

Title: The Foolish QuestSpeaker: Ransom KentScripture: Jonah 1:1-3Date: Sep 08, 2024

Andy Johnson is joined by The Fried Egg's Matt Rouches and Clear Creek Director of Greens and Grounds Mike Cunniff on this two-part episode. To start, Andy and Matt discuss Matt's recent trip through the Nebraska Sandhills, where Matt played 14 different golf courses in six days. They discuss the best golf in the region, Matt's prior experience living in the Sandhills, playing courses with sand greens, and how he'd play just ten rounds in the area. After that, Andy sits down with Mike Cunniff at Clear Creek, a course in Carson City, Nevada next to Lake Tahoe. Andy and Mike talk about the Coore and Crenshaw course in the mountains, how they maintain the course in the elevation and with houses surrounding it, Mike's work at Old Sandwich and more.

Title: Living in the NewSpeaker: Brandon BarrettScripture: Colossians 3:1-17Date: Aug 25, 2024

In this episode of "Beamer's Best Bets," hosts Rich Beem and Sandy McIlree dive into golf tournament predictions, player performances, and personal golfing tales. Rich shares his top picks for the upcoming BMW Championship.The hosts also recount humorous stories from recent member-guest tournaments and discuss the impact of golf technology on their game.

Title: Your Jesus Is Too SmallSpeaker: Brandon BarrettScripture: Colossians 1:15-23Date: Aug 11, 2024

Doug is excited to have two great guests join him. Gina Nathan, the Marketing Manager at Sandhills Global Event Center to share all things Lancaster County Super Fair happening August 1st - 10th. And Brooke Carlson, Executive Director at Disrupting Traffick, a non-profit breaking the cycle of commercial sexual exploitation by offering trauma informed resources to those being bought and sold for sex. https://superfair.org/super-fair-home/ https://disruptingtraffick.org/

Title: God, Restore UsSpeaker: David LautenScripture: Psalm 85Date: Jul 28, 2024

We are joined by Mitch Helman from AuctionTime as he gives us an equipment market update.  We also discuss the advantages of using AuctionTime as an online equipment auction tool, when combined with all of the external services they provide like (trucking & shipping, equipment financing, and fleet evaluator).  These services offer auctioneers a much more broad scope of services that can be presented to their sellers and buyers at auction.  Another great episode with Mitch Helman as he outlines the important facets of Sandhills and AuctionTime.

In this episode of the North American Waterfowler podcast, Elliott interviews Matt, the creator of the High Prairie Sportsman YouTube channel. They discuss Matt's YouTube channel, his upbringing, and his experiences as a waterfowl hunter. They also talk about Matt's gardening and farming endeavors, including the vegetables he grows and sells at the farmer's market. The conversation touches on the beauty of the Sandhills and the importance of preserving natural landscapes. They also express their love for teal hunting and the delicious taste of teal meat. In this conversation, Matt and Elliott discuss their experiences and observations from the previous waterfowl hunting season. They talk about the migration patterns, the number of ducks they shot, and the challenges they faced. They also discuss their YouTube channels and the importance of capturing and sharing their hunting memories. Matt shares his plans for the upcoming hunting season, including hunting in different states and potentially getting a swan. They also touch on the topic of hunting with dogs and the different perspectives on it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Title: Serving Christ With ZealSpeaker: Drew GoodmanScripture: Romans 12:11Date: Jun 30, 2024

In this conversation, Chris Jobman and Elliott discuss their recent experiences with dog training and hunting. They talk about Chris's busy schedule at his kennel, including upcoming tests and qualifications for the Master National. They also discuss the beauty of the Sandhills and their hunting experiences there. Elliott shares his experiences at the HRC event and his training challenges with his dog Georgie. Chris provides advice on how to improve Georgie's obedience and control. They also discuss the HRC's decision to not have midweek tests and the potential impact on participation. In this conversation, Elliott and Chris Jobman answer various questions related to dog training. They discuss topics such as dogs chomping on bumpers during water retrieves, improving marking skills, handling timid dogs during forced to pile training, dealing with spinning behavior after whistle stops, and treading water during water blinds. They provide insights and suggestions for each question, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dog's behavior and tailoring the training approach accordingly.

Title: A Heavenly VisionSpeaker: Sean HendersonScripture: Revelation 7Date: Jun 23, 2024

Title: Astonishing GraceSpeaker: Josh FlemingScripture: Hosea 1:1-2:1Date: Jun 16, 2024

As hundreds of thousands decend on Pinehurst for the U.S. Open, many of them will look for nightlife in the town's social district. A nonprofit is hoping some of them will find their way to it's beer garden, which is raising money for the families of Special Operations. WRAL's Grace Holland explores what this event shows about the close relationship between golfers and military families in the Sandhills.

The U.S. Open begins Thursday in Pinehurst and it's bringing tens of thousands of people to the Sandhills. WRAL's Brett Kneese talks about what the atmosphere is like for fans visiting the legendary golf course.

Andy and Brendan are together again, this time in the Sandhills of North Carolina for the 2024 U.S. Open. They are posted up at the Ecco House after a full day walking around Pinehurst No. 2, acquiring scuttlebutt about the course, USGA, conditions, and other miscellany. They discuss some early-week alarmist comments from the players about the course already being “borderline” and players shooting over 80 en masse. They wonder if Putterboy needs to be canceled. As per usual for these preview episodes, they pick out their “favorite” and worst tee times for the first rounds. They react to comments from Scottie, Bryson, Tiger, Rory, Viktor, Rahm, and more. There are multiple games-within-the-games proposed. There is some angst about ample paywalled Peacock coverage. They close with some “smoking gun” reporting on the Sandhills Screwjob that had people falling out of their seats in the media center. Finally, some picks are made, both for winners and darkhorses.

"The Nebraska Sandhills” is an updated perspective on this extraordinary place. Writers, editors, scientists, and photographers all came together to assemble this photo-rich book. 3 of the creators talked with "All About Books" host Pat Leach about the unusual way this book was made.

What started as a 4-H project in Redmond, Oregon, grew Denny Hoffman into a herdsman, manager and now owner of Hoffman Herefords in Thedford, Nebraska. With more than 60 years of involvement in the breed, Denny began the early part of his career as a herdsman for Stone Herefords, Hermiston, Oregon. On a courageous leap of faith, Denny moved the family operation from California to Nebraska in order to grow and sustain the business for the next generation. A 2019 Hall of Fame inductee, Denny shares his history with the Hereford breed in this episode of 1881.

This week on AgweekTV, the USDA is making a huge investment in ag conservation programs. A North Dakota woman finds success in selling her beef and some very unusual eggs straight off the farm. Some aspiring chefs develop award winning recipes using soy. And we'll show you how some FFA students are using science and technology to solve real problems for farmers.  

Caleb and I just spent an awesome few days in the Sandhills region of Nebraska looking for sheds with our good friend Nate Dodson. Nate is a cattle rancher who lives his life very close to the land. He is an avid deer, turkey and (when he draws a tag) elk hunter. He hunts turkeys all around the country, but most of his hunting takes place on the ranch where he grew up. The three of us recorded this episode live and late into the night after a full day of picking up sheds. The conversation jumps all over the place from shed hunting to Nebraska's wealth of hunting opportunities to wildlife management practices and collaring mountain lions. It's an excellent conversation that I can't wait to have again in the future.    Follow Nate on GoWild: @Nate Dodson Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @east2westhunts_alex (also on GoWild) Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow Caleb: @calebleedrake (also on GoWild)   Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase Old Barn Taxidermy Tell Them The First Gen Hunter Podcast Sent You! Camofire Black Ovis My Medic use promo code firstgen15 at checkout to save 15% AlienGear Holsters FORLOH Fox River Socks Gunskins Tipton Gun Cleaning Accessories Outdoor Edge Kuiu Tactical Hunting Apparel  

In this episode, we're joined by Zack Zortman, the self-proclaimed "Average Dad" from the snowy landscapes of Elkhorn, Nebraska. Zack is here to share his love for golfing with good company and how a round of golf is best enjoyed with those who value fun over the final score—a sentiment we share.We'll dive deep into the Nebraska golf scene, exploring the unique terrain of the Sandhills and their impact on creating some of the most fascinating golf courses out there, with a special shout-out to the impressive Landmand course.Zack opens up about his golfing essentials, from his trusty Callaway driver to his favorite mid-round snacks, and his appreciation for iconic course logos. We also get personal as he recounts his unforgettable hole-in-one moment with his dad and grandpa in San Antonio—an experience that truly showcases the game's generational bond.As we explore his top courses, bucket list dreams, and his dream foursome, Zack keeps reminding us that it's all about the love of the game and the community it builds. We'll even get into the ins and outs of golf club fittings and sneak a peek at the lively Goat Hill Park.Get ready to swing into stories of scenic greens, memorable shots, and the importance of finding joy in each round. This is an episode that you don't want to miss!https://twitter.com/VeryAvgDadhttps://BestBall.comhttps://linktr.ee/BestBallhttps://twitter.com/golfBestBallhttps://www.instagram.com/golfbestball/https://www.facebook.com/golfbestballhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bestball/#theholestorypodcast #mybestballInterested in becoming a sponsor of The Hole Story Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

On today's episode, we have special guest Terryn Drieling and we're talking all about the Enneagram, how it can expedite self awareness, and how it can help us improve both our personal and professional relationships. Terryn shares her Good Movement theory and how it correlates to both livestock and humans and helps us improve our communication. Terryn Drieling grew up on a small feed yard in Northeast Nebraska. She now lives and works on a large ranch in the Sandhills with her husband and their three kids. She believes the stockmanship principle of good movement applies no matter what species we're interacting with.  Over the past several years, she's taken what she knows about that principle, studied the Enneagram, read countless books on brain science, psychology, generational trauma, and communication. Terryn has used what she's learned to develop her “Good Movement” coaching and trainings, and started the Good Movement Draws Good Movement podcast to help fellow farmers, ranchers, and rural folk improve communication and grow relationally.   Resources & Links: Terryn's Poor Woman's Latte recipe When the Body Says No The Road Back to You Get our FREE resource for Writing a Strong Job Description Get our FREE resource for Making the Most of Your Internship Email us at hello@ofthewest.co Join the Of The West Email List List your jobs on Of The West   Connect with Terryn: Follow/subscribe to her podcast, Good Movement Draws Good Movement Follow on Instagram @terryn.drieling Check out her website   Connect with Jessie: Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarv Follow on Facebook @jobsofthewest Check out the Of The West website Be sure to subscribe/follow the show so you never miss an episode!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season 5 – Episode 2 Featuring Tim Kreger speaking with host of the Carolinas GCSA Winter Meeting Green Resources, Jason Blakely. Following that we have Professor Jim Huntoon with a couple assistants who attended the Winter Meeting from Pinehurst #2, Eric Mabie and David Chrobak. They discuss the US Open preparations on going at Course 2, golf in the Sandhills region of the Carolinas, career paths and the USGA GAP program. The Carolinas GCSA is committed to provide its members with the opportunity to excel professionally and enhance the game of golf through responsible turfgrass management.

Season 7, Episode 1: Join veterinarian Chelsea Woodcock and Wes Chism from Gallagher North America as they uncover the secrets to a successful spring calving season, navigating the delicate balance of herd health and the challenges of record keeping. In this episode, you will be able to: Master successful spring calving strategies for healthier herds. Implement the efficient Sandhills calving system for better outcomes. Maximize herd health with optimal vaccination timing for calves. Elevate herd management practices through the importance of record-keeping. Understand why BCS and nutrition are important to monitor throughout the year. Learn more about digital record-keeping systems: https://am.gallagher.com/en-US The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:43 - Importance of Spring Calving 00:02:30 - Preparing for Calving Season 00:09:13 - Efficient Data Collection 00:11:35 - Ensuring Calf Health 00:15:03 - Implementing Sandhills Calving System 00:16:29 - Effectiveness of Calving Method 00:17:42 - Vaccinating Calves 00:19:43 - Importance of Keeping Records 00:21:50 - Conclusion and Takeaways Full Show Notes: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/casual-cattle-conversations-podcast-shownotes  Free Weekly Resources: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranching-resources  • The easiest way to create a new revenue stream for your ranch is with LandTrust. Learn more here! www.landtrust.com/a/cattleconvos  Take Your Ranch to the Next Level Once a month Shaye hosts Q&A calls between cattle producers and beef industry leaders to help ranchers find answers to their questions and improve their bottom lines. The best part is you get expert insight from the comfort of your own ranch and get to ask any question you want relating to the topic! Learn More About RancherMinds: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events  Connect with me on Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleconvos Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleconvos/ Podcast Coaching Do you have an existing podcast or want to start a new one but don't know where to start? Connect with Shaye and she will lay out everything you need to know to get you started on the right foot. Find podcast resources and coaching opportunities here! https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/podcast-coaching

If you are an upland bird hunter with a yen for great writing and vividly lived experiences, you have probably been reading the Mouthful of Feathers crew -- Tom Reed, Marissa Jensen and Greg McReynolds -- on the internet since 2009. Whether you have or have not, you are in for a treat. Join us for a celebration of wild birds and wild dogs and their first publication, in a book that you can hold in your hands, of the best of the best of the Mouthful of Feathers short essays and stories. The book is the perfect off-season reading: 20 writers from all walks of life and all over North America. It's old friends and old and young dogs, venerable old double barrels and pawnshop pump shotguns with stocks cracked from a tumble down the chukar's steepest basalt. It's bobwhites and sharptails, Huns and timberdoodles and Mearn's, from the southern longleaf to the rain-soaked poplars of Michigan, the Sandhills to the Madrean Sky Islands. And the conversation in epidode 169 of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers' Podcast & Blast is one hell of a good time.

On this Fowl Life Podcast, Midwest Series with Joel Kleefisch, Wisconsin Waterfowl Association Executive Director, Bruce Ross, and Champion Duck caller, Mark Kakatsch, with the Wildlife Foundation go in-depth on hunting Sandhill Cranes. Should there be a season and will there be? D.N.R. Game Bird Ecologist, Taylor Finger, weighs in on the booming population of Sandhills in Wisconsin and how it's affecting agriculture. This must-listen episode talks about the future of waterfowl in the Midwest.

Host Chris Jennings is joined by John Pollmann, WF360 Central Flyway migration editor, for a quick roundup of Great Plains habitat conditions. Pollmann notes that the Dakotas are looking very good, based on North Dakota Game and Fish Commission reports, and the same goes for South Dakota. Optimism from waterfowl habitat managers and hunters is running high. Meanwhile, Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma desperately need precipitation in some areas. It's time to start keeping a close eye on the weather as waterfowl seasons in the northern portions of the US are kicking off.www.ducks.org/DUPodcast