East 2 West Hunts Podcast

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin discusses budget-friendly hunting opportunities in the Western United States. He emphasizes the importance of exploring various hunting options beyond big game, such as black bear, pronghorn antelope, turkey, and small game hunting. Gruin shares insights on how to maximize hunting experiences while being cost-effective, encouraging...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin discusses his favorite over-the-counter (OTC) hunting options, focusing on Colorado and Utah. He explains the current state of OTC hunts, including changes in regulations and tag availability, and shares insights on hunting strategies, application processes, and the unique experiences each state offers. The conversation emphasizes t...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin speaks with Gary Berger, owner of Last Light Guide Service, about bird hunting, particularly focusing on turkey and grouse hunting. They discuss the importance of bird dogs, the challenges of hunting different species, and the essential gear needed for successful hunts. Gary shares insights on scouting, calling techniques, and the b...

In this episode, Alex Gruin and Justin Hunold delve into the intricacies of arrow building and archery, discussing everything from the basics of bow setups to the nuances of tuning arrows for optimal performance. They explore the importance of understanding arrow dynamics, the choice between mechanical and fixed broadheads, and practical tips for building and maintaining arrows. The conversation e...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin and guest Taylor Riley discuss the intricacies of mastering outdoor skills, particularly in hunting and survival. Taylor shares his journey into hunting, the creation of the 360 Sportsman masterclass platform, and the importance of structured learning and community support. They explore the balance between beginner and advanced cont...

In this episode, Alex Gruin discusses his comprehensive strategies for tag applications in 2025, emphasizing the importance of building points, prioritizing species, and navigating state-specific regulations. He shares insights on the evolving tag systems in states like Colorado and New Mexico, and highlights the significance of physical fitness in preparation for hunting. Alex encourages listener...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, Alex Gruin and Jacob Albaugh discuss the essentials of archery elk hunting, focusing on different hunting styles including base camp, day hunts, hybrid hunts, and expedition hunts. They delve into the necessary gear for each style, budgeting tips, and their favorite pieces of equipment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of comfort, practic...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin interviews wildlife photographer and outdoorsman Saxton Hartsky. They discuss Saxton's incredible hunting season, his transition from photography to hunting, and the challenges and successes he faced in the field. Saxton shares insights on bow hunting, the importance of spending time outdoors, and his new venture, Wild Born Outdoors...

In this episode, Matt Hartsky shares his extensive background in athletics and fitness coaching, emphasizing the importance of well-rounded training for backcountry hunting. He discusses his evolution from a world-class runner to a power lifter and bodybuilder, and how these experiences shaped his coaching philosophy. Matt highlights the significance of strength training, endurance, and mental pre...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin and guest Kent Boucher discuss the significant changes in Colorado's hunting regulations,This includes the shift from over-the-counter tags to a draw system for 2025 plus the upcoming changes to the draw system in 2028. They explore the implications of these changes for both resident and non-resident hunters, the impact of hunti...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin provides a comprehensive guide to hunting tags, covering everything from the basics of what a tag is to the complexities of state-specific systems. He explains the differences between draw and over-the-counter tags, the points system, and strategies for navigating the application process. Alex also discusses the importance of unders...

In this episode, Alex Gruin and Justin Hunold discuss the importance of budget gear in hunting without sacrificing success. They explore various categories of gear, including base layers, mid layers, outer layers, pants, socks, boots, backpacks, optics, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear. The conversation emphasizes the value of quality gear that fits within a budget, sharing personal experien...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin speaks with Andrew Lukosevic about his unique journey into hunting. Andrew shares his unconventional background, starting from a non-hunting family to becoming an avid hunter. He discusses his first rugged elk hunt in Montana, the challenges he faced, and how he transitioned to whitetail hunting in New Jersey. The conversation delve...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin interviews Gideon Montgomery, a passionate hunter and conservationist from Michigan. Gideon shares his journey into hunting, starting as a first-generation hunter at the age of 21. He discusses his experiences hunting in various states, including Michigan, Ohio, Vermont, Nebraska, Maine and Colorado, highlighting the unique challeng...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin interviews Antonio Giordano about his recent hunting adventures, including three back-to-back hunts for Coues deer and elk in Arizona and Colorado. They discuss the extensive planning and logistics involved in coordinating these hunts, the challenges of using a muzzleloader, and the excitement of successfully filling their tags. Ant...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin speaks with Jacob Albaugh and Chad Arnold about Primal Faith, a faith-based organization that combines hunting with spiritual growth. Jacob shares the story of how Primal Faith was born from a life-changing experience in the mountains, emphasizing the mission to support men in a society that has failed them. Chad, the winner of a si...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin and guest Caleb Drake discuss the emotional journey of hunting, focusing on Caleb's recent experience harvesting a massive buck. They explore the importance of scouting, understanding terrain, and the conditions that lead to successful hunts. Caleb shares his detailed encounter with the buck, the strategies he employed, and the emot...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin and guest Jacob Albaugh share an in-depth account of their recent elk hunting adventure. The conversation covers the emotional significance of the trip, reflections on past hunting experiences, the importance of physical fitness and preparation, and the dynamics of hunting with family and friends. Jacob discusses the challenges face...

In this episode of  East 2 West Hunts , Alex Gruin sits down with Darin Sitto and Kent Boucher of the  First Gen Hunter Podcast  to reflect on their recent western hunting adventure. We discuss how the group faced tough terrain, challenging conditions, and the steep learning curve of western hunting. Alex discusses his mule deer hunting success while Darin and Kent go over the wealth of valuable l...

In this episode, we're on the road to Colorado for Darin Sitto’s first-ever western elk hunt! Join us as we break down what it truly takes to prepare for a western hunt, especially for first-timers. Darin shares his year-long commitment to getting ready—from building the right fitness level to investing in the essential gear and mental preparation required for an elk hunt out West. Whether you're...

Thank you to Matt for taking time with us on this great episode: Follow along with Matt's adventures on instagram @lucky07outdoors In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin speaks with seasoned hunter Matt about his extensive hunting experiences in Alaska. They discuss the challenges and rewards of hunting in one of the most remote places on earth, including the importance...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin interviews Jimmy Kirner, an avid hunter who shares his experiences hunting in Nevada over three consecutive years. The conversation delves into the challenges and strategies involved in hunting the same unit multiple times, the importance of preparation and scouting, and the lessons learned from each hunting season. Jimmy reflects o...

In this episode, Alex Gruin shares his comprehensive gear list for the 2024 mule deer and elk hunting season. He discusses clothing essentials, optics, trekking gear, and the importance of a well-organized pack. Alex emphasizes the significance of comfort and functionality in his gear choices, providing insights into his personal preferences and experiences. He also touches on cooking, water filtr...

In this episode of the East 2 West Hunts podcast, host Alex Gruin and guest Jason Farmer discuss Jason's recent elk hunting experience in Arizona. They delve into the intricacies of drawing tags, the importance of gear preparation, and the strategies employed during the hunt. Jason shares his insights on elk behavior, the challenges faced during the hunt, and the key takeaways that can enhance fut...

Follow Along on Instagram @east2westhunts Youtube @east2whunts Website: www.east2westhunts.com In the introductory episode of the East to West Hunts podcast, host Alex shares his passion for hunting and the purpose behind the podcast. He discusses the challenges hunters face when transitioning between different regions and emphasizes the importance of learning from experiences rather than just foc...