American Outdoor News Magazine

In a recent interview with American Outdoor News, I sat down with Blake Barnett, longtime contributor and driving force behind the iconic hunting television series Trailing the Hunter’s Moon. During our conversation, Barnett shared how the show has evolved over the years while continuing to influence the modern hunting community. Once producing 26 episodes annually, the series adapted to industry...

The American Outdoor News Podcast, hosted by Chris Avena, features an upcoming interview with Jeffrey Meyerl of Safari Club International (SCI) focused on the rapidly growing Safari Club International Convention in Nashville, one of the most important events in the global hunting and conservation community. The conversation highlights how the convention has flourished since moving to Nashville, dr...

During my interview with Maria Davidson of Safari Club International, we discussed the recent Florida bear hunt and the conservation science that supports regulated hunting in the state. Maria explained that Florida’s bear hunts are not about reducing wildlife indiscriminately, but about responsibly managing finite habitat resources while balancing wildlife populations with increasing land use and...

Chris Avena, host of the American Outdoor News Podcast speaks with Christina Pittman, President and CEO of Texas Trophy Hunters Association, about conservation and hunting heritage. She highlighted TTHA’s 51-year history and its mission supporting youth education and the future of hunting. Christina previewed the Outdoors Extravaganza 2026 ,scheduled January 9–11 in Dallas at the Kay Bailey Hutchi...

In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, host Chris Avena speaks with Raymie Grimm of Safari Club International (SCI) about the organization’s global conservation mission and hunting advocacy efforts. Their conversation highlights how SCI continues to unite hunters worldwide through education, ethical hunting practices, and impactful conservation initiatives. A major focus of the disc...

In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, host Chris Avena speaks with Raymie Grimm of Safari Club International (SCI) about the organization’s global conservation mission and hunting advocacy efforts. Their conversation highlights how SCI con

Chris Avena interviewed Robyn Sandoval, founder of A Girl & A Gun, about the organization’s origins and nationwide growth. Sandoval explained it began as a 2011 “Girls’ Night Out” to introduce women to firearms in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment. A Girl & A Gun has grown into the largest women’s firearms training organization in the United States. The organization empowers women...

Chris Avena interviewed Robyn Sandoval, founder of A Girl & A Gun, about the organization’s origins and nationwide growth. Sandoval explained it began as a 2011 “Girls’ Night Out” to introduce women to firearms in a welcoming, non-intimidating environ

Chris spoke with Bee Frederick and Regina Lennox from Safari Club International about current bear hunting policies. They discussed Florida bear hunting regulations, Louisiana’s reopened bear season, and ongoing challenges in population control. Bee explained the limited Florida bear hunt, which offers 172 permits across specific zones. He noted that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Comm...

Country music artist Kristy Lee Cook has carved out a career that beautifully blends her love for music with her deep passion for the outdoors. Many know her from her time on American Idol, where her powerful voice and authentic charm won over audiences nationwide. Today, she is equally well recognized as the host of The Most Wanted List on the Sportsman Channel, a show that captures her adventuro...

Carson Keys explained his role as Safari Club International’s Chapter Services Director and his “coach-player” leadership style. He oversees 125 to 130 SCI chapters across the United States. His team supports these chapters with structure, resources, and clear strategic guidance. Carson emphasized that effective chapter management strengthens SCI’s mission and expands its national reach. He detail...

Chris Tymeson, SCI’s Vice President of Government Affairs, described SCI’s advocacy work across six major areas. These include federal affairs, state affairs, international advocacy, the Hunter Information Service, guide and outfitter relations, and legal support. He explained that SCI works closely with lawmakers to defend hunters and protect outdoor traditions. Tymeson also shared his background...

Chris Tymeson, SCI’s Vice President of Government Affairs, described SCI’s advocacy work across six major areas. These include federal affairs, state affairs, international advocacy, the Hunter Information Service, guide and outfitter relations, and legal

Chris Avena interviewed Justin Morrissey from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to discuss the +One Mentorship Initiative. The program encourages hunting mentorship and shooting sports participation through partnerships with groups like the National Deer Association and Pheasants Forever. Originally built around pledges, the +One Initiative now focuses on measurable recruitment and me...

Chris Avena interviewed Justin Morrissey from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to discuss the +One Mentorship Initiative . The program encourages hunting mentorship and shooting sports participation through partnerships with groups like the

Matt Roberts, founder of MNR Custom Rifles, shared his meticulous process for crafting bespoke firearms. Each rifle receives countless hours of detailed attention, from hand-selected materials to precise finishing work. Due to the level of craftsmanship required, Matt produces only about ten rifles annually, ensuring every firearm meets his exacting standards. He begins each build with a solid fou...

In a recent interview, Aaron Smith from SCI Record Books discussed how the program honors hunters and preserves ethical hunting traditions. The SCI Record Book is more than a list — it’s a global recognition of dedication, skill, and conservation. Each entry celebrates the hunter’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of wildlife. Smith explained the wide range of awards...

In this week’s episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, Chris Avena sat down with Everett Headley, Safari Club International’s Guide and Outfitter Liaison. The discussion focused on the importance of choosing the right guide and outfitter, whether hunting in North America or abroad. Everett shared valuable insight on navigating complex hunting logistics and the benefits of working with truste...

In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, host Chris Avena sits down with Raymie Grim, Director of Entertainment Services for Safari Club International. Raymie shared exciting details about the upcoming SCI Convention’s events, starting with the Friday at the Music City Center. Hosted by Nick Mundt, the evening will feature a keynote address by Nick Freitas and conclude with a lively Y...

My interview with Joe Bartozzi from Project ChildSafe focused on promoting responsible gun ownership and secure firearm storage. Project ChildSafe is a nationwide program that provides free educational resources and firearm safety kits. The program partners with local law enforcement to distribute gun locks and safety information across communities in the United States. Its mission is to reduce fi...

In a recent interview, Jason St. Michael of Safari Club International discussed the organization’s mission and global structure. SCI supports ethical hunting, wildlife protection, and conservation efforts through 164 chapters and 50,000 members worldwide. Jason highlighted the importance of hunters working together to secure the future of wildlife and outdoor traditions. Jason explained the challe...

Known worldwide as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the wrestling icon revealed a surprising passion for the great outdoors. Before the fame, Austin learned patience, discipline, and respect while exploring the wild brush country of South Texas. In an exclusive American Outdoor News interview, Austin shared the side fans rarely see. Not the wrestler or TV […]

The American Outdoor News podcast recently featured a conversation with Barbara Crown from Safari Club International’s Hunter Information Services. This episode highlighted SCI’s dedication to supporting hunters worldwide. Barbara explained how Hunter Information Services provides free assistance for members facing hunting and travel challenges. She helps with firearm transportation, trophy import...

The American Outdoor News podcast recently featured a conversation with Barbara Crown from Safari Club International’s Hunter Information Services. This episode highlighted SCI’s dedication to supporting hunters worldwide. Barbara explained how Hunter Inf

Chris Avena sits down with Kevin Paulson, Executive Director of the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers (AGLOW), to discuss AGLOW’s history, mission, and future initiatives. Paulson highlights how AGLOW continues to unite outdoor communicators, brands, and organizations to strengthen storytelling within the outdoor industry. Kevin Paulson outlines AGLOW’s four key pillars and explains the m...