The Hunter Conservationist Podcast

In this episode, Brittany Semenoff shares a hard look at life on the ranch after a grizzly bear killed one of their first-calf heifers’ calves just a mile from home. Mark and Brittany discuss how predator pressure affects cattle, herd behavior, family life, and the emotional and financial toll of losing livestock, while also exploring the role of the BC livestock protection program and the need fo...

In this episode, we explore the complexities and challenges of conservation efforts in Manitoba, focusing on the Seal River Watershed Park proposal and Canada's 30 x 30 biodiversity initiative. Dennis Schindler from the Manitoba Wildlife Federation provides insight into stakeholder concerns, government actions, and the future of public land access across Canada. You Fuel the Mission. We Deliver th...

It's official: Greg is a Horrible Person. In this inspiring interview, Greg Traynor, known as the Accessible Hunter, shares his journey from a diving accident to becoming a passionate advocate for adaptive hunting. Discover practical tips, innovative equipment, and community support that empower hunters with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors. Meet Greg: https://www.instagram.com/accessiblehunter/...

What if the real keystone players are invisible, microscopic, and often overlooked? In this eye-opening episode, Mark deconstructs the narrative of large predators as the primary regulators of ecosystems. Using an ecological perspective, Mark reveals the species that hold the true power over habitat health, biodiversity, and resilience. You’ll discover that ecosystems are complex networks, not sim...

Explore the unexpected turn in Alberta's wildlife management as we delve into the reasons behind the withdrawal of a new hunting regulation. Uncover the powerful influence of community voices and the delicate balance between conservation goals and public sentiment. Matt Besko, Executive Director of the Hunting Branch of Alberta offers a transparent look into the decision-making process that shapes...

Discover how British Columbia's innovative Livestock Protection Program balances wildlife conservation with the economic realities of livestock producers. Kevin Van Damme shares insights into the program’s success in reducing predator conflicts through strategic management, investigation, and prevention. BC Livestock Protection Program https://www.cattlemen.bc.ca/bcca-programs/livestock-protection...

It's official: Lyna is a Horrible Person. Lyna Rempel discusses her inspiring journey, hunting adventures and addressing misconceptions about food safety, environmental impact, and the importance of balancing pest control with crop yield. The conversation highlights the nuanced realities farmers face and the importance of understanding the full picture in agriculture. Horrible People Podcast chats...

Why are American duck hunters suddenly being restricted in Saskatchewan? In this episode, Rob Olson joins Mark and Curtis and lays out the growing controversy around Saskatchewan’s new restrictions on U.S. duck hunters — a move that’s sparking frustration in the flyways, raising questions about fairness, and reshaping decades of cross border hunting tradition. If you hunt the Central or Mississipp...

Northern Alberta’s moose are struggling, and the reasons aren’t as simple as you think. Bob Heyde joins us to unpack the data, the cultural context, and the community led efforts reshaping moose conservation. Learn how Indigenous partners, outfitters, and grassroots campaigns are protecting vulnerable cows and calves and why shifting harvest practices could change everything. If you care about wil...

Ever wonder if your snow tires are more reliable than bear spray? In this episode, journalist Wes Siler joins Mark Hall to dig into the real science behind grizzly encounters, bear spray, and firearms and why much of what you’ve been told might put you at risk. Wes breaks down the myths, the misleading studies, and the hard truths about what works in bear country. From flawed success rate claims t...

This episode dives into the fast‑changing landscape of wildlife policy and sustainable use. We break down Colorado’s proposed fur sale ban, Etsy’s sudden decision to remove all fur listings, and what these moves mean for trappers, artisans, conservationists, and the broader industry. Plus: insights from global market trends, humane trapping innovation, and why science‑based management matters more...

It's official: LA is a Horrible Person. Lori-Anne Horst and Jenn chat about hunting, outdoor skills, and the inspiring work of the Canadian Sports Women's Society (CSS). Learn about hunting tips, safety, organizing outdoor events, and encouraging more women and kids to get outside and learn essential life skills. We also talk all things Lori-Anne and the incredible ways she gives to her local comm...

Step into the high-stakes world of predator attack investigations. Kevin Van Dam joins Mark and Curtis for an expert-driven exploration of large carnivore behaviour, emergency response protocols, and essential wildlife safety practices. This compelling episode traces the evolution of predator attack investigation programs across North America, reveals the warning signs that can help identify dange...

It's official: Tiffany is a Horrible Person. Tiffany Bader dives into her fascinating journey from a sociology graduate to a chef and wild food enthusiast. In this episode, Tiffany shares her passion for foraging, seasonal cooking, and hunting, including eye-opening experiences in Sweden. From exploring medicinal plants to experimenting in the kitchen and connecting with nature, she gives tips on...

Explore the inspiring journey of Renee Thornton, who transitioned from a novice to a conservation advocate, reshaping the role of women in wildlife management. This episode delves into the Women Hunt™ Program by the Wild Sheep Foundation, highlighting its impact on bridging gender gaps and fostering leadership. Renee shares her personal evolution, overcoming fears and societal barriers, while cham...

Most people think grizzly bear is inedible or only fit for trophies. Chef Chris Irving flips that narrative, sharing how he prepares and celebrates this often-misunderstood meat proving it can be delicious, sustainable, and deeply connected to land and culture. In this episode, Chris takes us into the wilds of the Yukon, where he’s been cooking grizzly bear and other game meats with respect and ex...

For more than 40 years, Gord Burton has been a respected outfitter, conservation advocate, and one of Alberta’s most knowledgeable voices on wildlife management. In this episode, Gord joins Mark to unpack the history, policies, and on the ground realities that have shaped Alberta’s outfitting industry and its role in sustainable wildlife stewardship as well as holistic while management in the prov...

It's official: Steve is a Horrible Person. Steve Horst shares his passion for hunting and cooking wild game and we talk about the importance of utilizing every part of the animal. He discusses his experiences with various types of wild game, cooking techniques, and involving family in outdoor activities. Steve opens up about his journey in writing a cookbook and the impact of family on his cooking...

In this episode, Mike Smith, President of the Wild Sheep Foundation Alberta, breaks down the state of wild sheep in Alberta and what the Foundation is doing to protect them. The guys dig into the Foundation’s latest on the ground projects including innovative mechanical habitat enhancement is opening critical winter ranges like Grotto Mountain and Sheep River. Mike also provides and overview of th...

In this episode of Crossing the Line, Curtis sits down with Parker Willicome to break down what’s really happening at the grassroots level of Canada’s firearms community. Parker shares his journey from having little exposure to firearms to becoming deeply involved with the Cranbrook Rod & Gun Club: organizing events, supporting competitions, and advocating for the future of shooting sports. The co...

It's official: Erica Marchand is a Horrible Person. Jenn McDonald sits down with Erica, who shares her journey from outdoor enthusiast to founder of Bear and Fox and onward to another exciting adventure! Erica discusses her authentic approach to hunting, outdoor lifestyle branding, and the importance of tradition and community in hunting culture. She also explores the challenges of balancing famil...

Join Mark and Curtis Hall as they chat with Jenn McDonald from Why We Hunt about the surprising rewards of small game hunting. Discover how hunting squirrels can be an accessible and sustainable way to fill your freezer and create gourmet meals. Jen shares her journey into squirrel hunting, offering tips for beginners on gear, ethical practices, and cooking techniques. Learn about the fascinating...

Biologist Paul Jones from the Alberta Conservation Association joins Mark to explore the incredible migration of pronghorns across Alberta’s vast grasslands. Discover how these swift creatures navigate over 2,500 kilometers annually, overcoming obstacles like fences and highways. Learn about groundbreaking research on their migration patterns, survival strategies, and the innovative efforts to cre...

This episode of Crossing the Line, Curtis sits down with Nelson Augustine of Mountain Man Outdoors in Cranbrook, BC. They talk about the 40+ year history of the family-run business, what life behind the counter of a small-town outdoor store really looks like, and how hunters, sport shooters, and first-time firearms owners are navigating Canada’s changing firearms landscape. From the real process o...

Join fourth-generation rancher Lauren Copithorne as she unveils the challenges of living alongside Alberta's booming grizzly bear population. Discover how these bears impact her cattle operation and the innovative ways she manages them. This episode delves into bear behavior, the risks to livestock, and the debate around hunting for population control. Lauren shares her insights on community-based...