Diaries of a Lodge Owner

Join us as we welcome Jamie Bruce, a pioneering figure in the world of bass fishing, who takes us on a remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Dryden, Canada, to the prestigious US Bassmasters tournaments. Jamie shares how his early passion for fishing evolved into a competitive career, driven by his innovative approach to tackle design and his guiding work. From the creation of groundbre...

Orlando Zecca's life is a testament to pursuing one's passion, beginning from the banks of the Grand River to the vast wilderness of the Great White North. Orlando took a leap from the world of accounting to fulfill his dream of becoming a fishing guide at Anderson's Lodge, and his journey is full of fascinating turns and lessons. Through personal stories, he shares how his early lo...

Wayne Clark, a northern business legend, shares his extraordinary journey from a fur trapper to a successful entrepreneur dominating the aviation and hospitality sectors in Ontario. Discover how Wayne's passion for the outdoors and his relentless drive for diversification propelled his businesses, including Clark's Baits and Clark's Resorts and Outposts, to new heights. You'll...

Discover the unlikely path from gold mines to marinas with our guest, Andrew Johnston, who traded the pickaxe for propellers in the heart of Red Lake, Ontario. Andrew's journey is not just a career shift; it's a tale of transformation that highlights the importance of environmental responsibility within the mining industry. As a seasoned pro in both gold mining and marine engine maintena...

Shoulder seasons at lodges and cottages come with their own set of surprises, but the last thing you want is an unexpected injury. Ever thought a simple task like covering a boat could end with a shoulder injury? That's exactly what happened to Will, even with all his experience. We share our personal encounters with these overlooked dangers, stressing the importance of not underestimating ta...

What if a passion for fishing could turn into a legacy that inspires countless others? Today, we pay tribute to our dear friend and extraordinary co-host, Colin McKeown, who left an indelible mark on the world of fly fishing. We reminisce about our unforgettable adventure at Chaudière Lodge, where Colin's expertise turned a challenging July shoot into a masterclass in perseverance and dedicat...

From the tranquil waters of Brantford, Ontario, to the bustling fashion world of Toronto, Tim Dawson's story is one of passion, family, and success. Join us as we sit with this Canadian clothing mogul, the man behind the Legacy Brand Campus Crew, who reveals how his early dreams of fish farming shaped his journey in the competitive world of retail and wholesale fashion. Discover the magic tha...

What happens when you combine the thrill of competitive fishing with the unpredictability of nature? Join us as we relive our incredible journey to the Vanity Cup in Nipawin, Saskatchewan. This isn't just about reeling in walleye; it’s about navigating a whirlwind of weather challenges, discovering hidden fishing gems, and bonding with a vibrant community of anglers. Alongside my co-host Will...

Join us for an exhilarating exploration of the Bay of Fundy as we sit down with Greg Beliveau, the passionate owner and operator of Bass Barn Charters. Greg's enthusiasm for striped bass fishing is contagious, and his exciting tales of navigating the world's highest tides will leave you on the edge of your seat. Hear about his encounters with great white and mako sharks and discover the...

What if you could combine the grit and glamour of NFL triumphs with the serenity and thrill of the great outdoors? Join us for a spirited conversation with NFL star Rex Burkhead, a Super Bowl champion who shares not just his gripping experiences on the field but also his profound love for nature. From winning a Super Bowl with Tom Brady to memorable family fishing trips and exhilarating hikes, Rex...

Get ready to embrace the cold with our latest episode of "Diaries of a Lodge Owner: Stories of the North." Ever wondered how we manage life in Kenora when the snow can pile up to seven feet high? Join us as we share personal anecdotes from the frosty seasons, revealing the joys and challenges of winter activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling. From tobogganing through the winter wond...

What if your passion for fishing could turn into a thriving career on YouTube? This week on Diaries of a Lodge Owner, we sit down with Jay Siemens, a YouTube fishing and outdoor sensation, to uncover his remarkable journey from lodge guide to digital media star. Jay shares heartfelt stories about his early days with Uncut Angling in 2011, how his grandfather ignited his love for fishing, and the t...

Can you imagine scaling the highest peaks or diving deep into the ocean to uncover World War II relics? This week, we bring you an electrifying episode featuring the legendary high-altitude cinematographer, Jason Dittmer. From his humble beginnings fishing with his grandmother to capturing stunning footage for National Geographic, Jason's life is a whirlwind of adventure, grit, and serendipit...

What happens when a seasoned oil field worker swaps his hard hat for a fishing rod? Meet our new co-host, Willie "the Oil Man" Pawlowsky, whose unique journey from the Rockin' Bakken basin to the serene lakes of Northwestern Ontario promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. In our newly revamped podcast, "Diaries of a Lodge Owner: Stories of the North," Willie shares...

Have you ever wondered how a 14-season NHL veteran transitions to a high-profile executive role? This week, we sit down with Kris King, Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations for the NHL, as he shares his remarkable journey from the rink to the boardroom. Recorded on the tranquil dock of the Upper French River, Chris opens up about his illustrious career, the life of our late friend...

What does it take to film a successful outdoor show amidst Canada’s breathtaking wilderness? Join us as we sit down with part of the dynamic Fish'n Canada team, including Peter Bowman, Dean Taylor, and Vova Babushkin, to uncover the thrills and trials of showcasing Canada’s natural beauty. Dean and Steve share their nerve-wracking yet exhilarating experiences of hosting their first episodes,...

Ever wondered how to transform your passion for fishing, bushcraft, and camping into a thriving career? Get ready to master the art of monetizing your outdoor adventures as we answer Peter Maharski's burning question. We explore two dynamic paths: starting at a fishing lodge to gain invaluable experience and connections, or striking out on your own to build a guiding business from the ground...

What happens when you blend the thrill of fishing with the charm of Canada's wilderness? Find out as we recount the unforgettable experience of hosting Bob Izumi, one of Canada's most iconic fishermen, at Chaudière Lodge. From the frantic rush to free up a cottage for Bob and his crew to the exhilarating moment of co-hosting The Real Fishing Show, this episode is brimming with behind-the...

Ever wondered how to handle a forest fire or call in a bull moose? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rick Payne, Regional Fire Response Specialist with the Ministry of Natural Resources in Dandryden, Ontario. Rick shares his incredible journey from boots on the ground to a high-ranking position, shedding light on current forest fire events, management plans, and essential protocols. Disco...

Have you ever felt the pressure of sharing a boat with your fishing heroes? Join us as we recount the unforgettable experience of co-hosting episode 406, "Bassin' on the French," with the legendary Angelo Viola and Peter Bowman. From the initial excitement to the nail-biting moments on the French River, you'll hear about the strategies that landed us both largemouth and smallmo...

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a quaint lodge into a flourishing business? Meet Coleridge Beeden, our guest for this episode, whose extraordinary life spans continents—from his childhood in Trinidad to his pivotal role as the bookings and office manager at Chaudière Lodge. Col has worn many hats, and today, he shares his riveting journey, offering valuable insights into how he helped...

Chef Colby Adams, the celebrated Chopped Canada finalist, joins us for an unforgettable episode filled with tales of culinary passion and fishing adventures. Discover how a city boy became an avid fisherman, reeling in impressive lake trout and northern pike at the beautiful Brabant Lodge on Great Slave Lake. Colby shares the experiences that led him to the Mackenzie River's mouth and reflect...

Ever wondered how a lodge owner turned a simple idea into a marketing phenomenon? Join us as we recount the early days of managing a fishing lodge and the visionary plan that changed everything. We share personal stories of collaborating with TV icons like Peter Bowman and Mike Miller, capturing the essence of camaraderie and adventure that defined our journey. You'll also hear a special camp...

What drives a man to leave behind the high-stakes world of oil exploration and embrace the tranquil life of a lodge owner? Join us as Will Palowski recounts his extraordinary journey from the oil fields to the serene beauty of Nordic Point Lodge. Will's tales of survival, grit, and determination provide a fascinating look into the rugged realities of the oil industry and the profound personal...

Ever wondered how food can transform an entire experience, especially in the tranquility of a remote fishing lodge? Join us as we sit down with Chef Jarrett Michetti, the culinary genius behind Nordic Point Lodge, who shares his incredible journey from Fort McMurray, Alberta, to becoming a celebrated chef in the North. Chef Michetti's Italian and Ukrainian roots play a pivotal role in his cul...