Ignite Podcast

Julie Chapman makes the case that the future of hunting depends on getting more families, more women, and more kids into the field now. If you care about conservation, raising outdoorsy kids, or why tough hunts create the best memories, this conversation will light you up. Dana talks with Julie about the Women Hunt movement, the emotional power of seeing first-time shooters ring steel, and why tho...

What happens when a love for birds turns into an extraordinary passion for hunting, conservation, and the outdoors? Meet 14-year-old Kenlyn from Nevada, who is proving that age is no barrier when it comes to pursuing your passions and chasing something truly unique. In this first episode of our new Sparks series, Dana sits down with Kenlyn and her mom, Beth McLaughlin, to hear the fascinating stor...

What happens when we give young people the opportunity to explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and discover their place in the world of hunting and conservation? We spark something that can last a lifetime! In this episode of the Ignite Podcast, Dana is joined by Renée Thornton and Dr. Ryan Brock of the Wild Sheep Foundation to introduce Sparks , an exciting new series dedicated to highlighting...

Some of the most incredible moments in hunting happen when you least expect them. From witnessing grizzly bears in the middle of their mating season to watching a mother black bear fiercely defend her cub, Jana Waller Bair has experienced wildlife encounters that most people will only ever see on a nature documentary. In this episode of IGNITE, host Dana Dykema welcomes Jana back for a second conv...

In this episode of the Ignite Podcast, Dana sits down with Paula McClain, a 2022 participant in the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt Field to Fork scholarship program, for an inspiring conversation about overcoming barriers, finding confidence, and discovering a passion for the outdoors later in life. Paula grew up in Texas and spent more than 30 years working in education. Today, she works with...

What happens when a wildlife biologist who has spent her career protecting wild places decides to become a hunter? In this episode of the Ignite Podcast, Dana sits down with Christina Wilson, a wildlife biologist from the Florida Keys and a graduate of the Women Hunt Field to Fork program. Christina’s story is a powerful look at conservation, hunting, food, and the unexpected ways they can all con...

She had never handled a long gun, never expected to be selected, and never imagined hunting would become part of her life. Then Ellie Henley applied to the Women Hunt Field to Fork scholarship program—and everything changed. Ellie is a wife and mom living in Maryland where she works as an American Sign Language interpreter. Dana and Ellie talk about her unexpected journey into hunting and how it w...

What happens when women who once felt unsure in the field become the ones helping the next generation of hunters? In IGNITE Episode 38 , Dana welcomes Women Hunt alumni Brandi Love and Courtney Michels for Blaze Series Part 6: A Tale of 2 Graduates . Brandi and Courtney share how the Women Hunt Field to Fork program helped turn curiosity into capability—from learning to shoot with confidence and e...

A brain tumor, a wheelchair, and a 3,000-mile drive to Texas did not stop Lasha Barbosa from reclaiming her life in the outdoors. Dana sits down with Lasha and Barbosa and her husband Chris who translates and speaks for her on the podcast. The trio talk about what happened after Lasha saw a Women Hunt post on Instagram and is one of the most moving comeback stories you’ll hear all season. Lasha op...

Kaitlyn Brown’s story shows what happens when you push past that voice the voice that tries to make you small, the one that says "you don’t belong." Step into a welcoming community, and discover a path from total beginner to confident hunter, mentor, and advocate for Women Hunt. Host Dana Dykema sits down with Kaitlyn, a Women Hunt Field to Fork graduate from the 2023 class, for a conversation tha...

Oregon nearly became the test case for one of the most alarming anti-hunting ballot measures in recent memory - and Amy Patrick is on the front lines of what happens next. As an independent lobbyist, sixth-generation farm kid, and late-blooming hunter, she reveals how IP 28 came frighteningly close, why the fight for a right to hunt and fish is far from over, and what it takes to push back when th...

A first-time hunter. A life turned upside down. And a program that gave Andrea Bouwman the confidence, community, and conservation knowledge she never knew she needed. If you have ever wondered whether hunting is for you - or if you need more confidence, more skills, or just a place to start - this conversation is for you. Andrea sits down with host Dana Dykema to share how she went from zero hunt...

Welcome to Episode 1 of our new Blaze Series where we talk to those who have been transformed by Hear their fun, moving, inspirational stories and the ways they are giving back. Dana Dykema sits down with two members of the original 2021 Women Hunt class to talk about the ripple effect of saying yes; Laura Carter and Danny Henderson. Laura shares the deeply personal reason she applied after walkin...

A broken leg in Uzbekistan. A croc-infested river in Zambia. A random giraffe swing or mountain slip in the backcountry. Join Dana Dykema as she sits down with Kelli Poole, Partner Account Manager to Global Rescue, as the two unpack how this service actually works. Global Rescue is not insurance; it's a no-activity-restrictions membership fit for hunters, mountaineers, backcountry hikers and anyon...

In this lively episode, wildlife veterinarians and longtime friends Dr. Peregrine Wolff and Helen Schwantje share how their careers were shaped by their love for animals, hunting, and a passion for making a difference. From navigating the evolution of veterinary medicine to breaking barriers as women in wildlife, their stories will inspire and challenge your perceptions. Discover how funding throu...

When Emily Richett stepped into the world of hunting, she never imagined how much it would change her perspective, deepen her respect for wildlife, and ignite her drive to bring others along for the journey. In this compelling conversation, Emily shares her inspiring journey from a vegan news reporter to a passionate advocate and participant in the Women Hunt program, revealing how a simple applic...

Unlock the power of community and storytelling in conservation with two inspiring women shaping the hunting and wildlife world. Bralli Clifford, from Wyoming and Jann Demaske, residing in Colorado,  share their journeys, strategies, and the deeply human side of wildlife advocacy—showing how passion, mentorship, and collaboration ignite real change. In this co-hosted episode Dana and Renée discuss...

Most people underestimate how crucial hands-on, focused training is for building real shooting confidence—until they try it. Imagine spending four days immersing yourself in a world-class hunting and shooting experience at Hudson Farm, where beginners and seasoned shooters alike elevate their skills, connect with community, and prepare for the ultimate pheasant hunt. In this episode, Dana and Rene...

Most people overlook the secret to elevating wild game and farm-fresh ingredients—until now. Chef Shelly Meyer shares the simple techniques and flavor hacks that transform everyday ingredients into gourmet dishes, making even the most skeptical guests become wild game lovers. In this episode, Shelly reveals how she turned her culinary passion into a thriving business, crafting flavors that celebra...

Most people assume that losing someone close means shutting down or shielding yourself from further pain — but Cheyenne Hoy’s story proves something powerful: grief can ignite a new kind of strength and purpose. After the heartbreaking loss of her husband Clayton in a tragic hunting accident, Cheyenne chose to honor his memory by stepping into a world he loved — hunting, art, and community — trans...

Dana and Derek engage in a lively conversation at the Hunt Fish Podcast Summit, held at the Pintail Hunting Club in Texas. The setting provides a perfect backdrop for their discussion, which delves into the evolution of the summit, the significance of networking, and their shared passion for conservation and podcasting. Derek begins by expressing his excitement about the summit's location, noting...

In this engaging episode, Dana Dykema sits down with Michael Shearer at the picturesque Pintail Hunting Club for a heartfelt conversation about fishing, mentorship, and conservation. Michael is the Program Director for Fishing's Future, an organization that provides opportunities for people and families to partake in the simple joy of fishing.  The discussion begins with Dana and Michael reflectin...

Most people underestimate the power of rivers—and the complex challenges they face—until it’s almost too late. In this eye-opening conversation, Matt Rice, the Southwest Regional Director for American Rivers, reveals how protecting our waterways isn’t just about preserving nature; it’s about safeguarding the foundation of communities, agriculture, and future generations. Imagine a river that susta...

In this insightful episode, Dana Dykema engages in a compelling conversation with Cole Payne, a dedicated leader within the Texas Brigades program. Cole shares his remarkable journey from being a participant to becoming the president of the board, illustrating the profound impact the program has had on his life and career. The Texas Brigades is a nonprofit organization committed to wildlife conser...

In this engaging, emotional episode, Dana Dykema welcomes Gina Reynolds. Gina was the first recipient of the Rubye Mayfair Blake Legacy Fund, set up by Derek Blake in honor of his late wife, to bring healing through the outdoors to women who have undergone a traumatic experience.   The conversation begins with Gina's interest in ultra running. She talks about her training regimen and her preparati...