The Mindful Hunter Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with the owner of Arcadia Outfitting Ben Stourac. Ben’s entire base camo was recently destroyed in the McKay fire that swept through a large section of country north of Lillooet.  We had a great chat about Ben’s history, what it took to build Arcadia in the first place and what Ben’s plans are to rebuild after the devastation of the fire.  If you’d like to support you c...

In this episode, I sit down with my good buddy Dylan Drego.  We’ve known each other for a few years now and have been fortunate to chase some elk together.  We got into a great chat about what hunting means to us and even share a couple good stories.   Dylan Drego @dylan.drego   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com     2:00 – Intro 2:53 – Common connection – Joel Turner 9:13...

In this episode, I sit down with Lyndsey Kotrla.  I have followed Lyndsey on social media for quite a while and I have always been impressed with her work ethic and the way she carries herself as a woman in the hunting space.  We get into her family’s background in farming and hunting, her views on women and hunting on social media, and a variety of other interesting topics.  If you do not already...

Welcome back to another semi-live hunt podcast.  For those unfamiliar with this style of podcast, I bring an audio recorder with me on my hunt and do my best to break it out a few times a day and tell the story of the hunt in audio format as things unfold in real-time.  On this particular episode I find myself up north in the Prince George region hunting bears and I can say I definitely saw my fai...

In this episode, I sat down with Petra Hilleberg, the CEO and daughter of the founders of Hilleberg Tents.  We had a great discussion covering topics like what it was like to grow up a Hilleberg, how Petra brought Hilleberg tents to North America and the technical differences between their product offerings.  Petra is an incredibly intelligent and thoughtful leader, and it was a pleasure to talk w...

In this episode, I sat down with my hunting partners for my upcoming sheep hunt Tristan and Spencer.  We did a deep dive into our gear lists and figured out what we’re still missing and what we may leave behind.   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com     0:00 – Intro 2:50 – Packs 8:57 – Camp and sleeping gear 13:30 – Worn clothing and gear 23:16 – Packed clothing and gear 31...

In this episode, I sat down with Kevin Guillen from Wilderness Athlete, and we had a great conversation about nutrition and supplementation for the hunting athlete.  Regardless of what products you choose to use there are tons of nuggets in this podcast highlighting ways you can increase your performance and recovery for both training and backcountry hunting.     Kevin Guillen @wildathlete @wilder...

In this episode, I sat down with Nick Trehearne. Nick is a very intelligent guy with some unique perspectives on hunting and photography.  I was really impressed with his focus and clarity of vision for what he creates and how he builds relationships.  If you don’t already follow Nick his info is listed down below.     Nick Trehearne @nicktrehearne www.nicktrehearne.com   @mindful_hunter jay@mindf...

In this episode, I sat down with Aron Snyder from Kifaru International.  In addition to being an absolute killer, Aron does a lot for the hunting community through his Q&A’s, the Kifarucast, and general availability and engagement.  We covered a wide range of topics including Aron’s upbringing and how that shaped him into the man he is today, a deep dive into some sheep hunting gear and a sneak pe...

In this episode, I sat down with renowned outdoors photographer and bowhunter Adam Foss.  I have wanted to chat with Adam for some time because he embodies the intriguing combination of a hardcore back hunter and the sensitive aesthetic of an artist.  This is one of my favourite chats I’ve had the opportunity to have on this podcast.  We got a little deep and talked philosophy, gave some technical...

In this episode, I sat down with my buddy Tim Winslow who is an Alaskan hunting guide and outfitter.  He is also the owner of Arizona Trophy Outfitters where they specialize in archery Mule Deer and Coues hunting in Southern AZ.  We had a great chat covering topics from OTC deer opportunities in AZ to a deep dive on gear selection for sheep hunting in AK.     Tim Winslow @aztrophyoutfitters_dch  ...

In this episode, I sat down with my buddy Adam who is a great representation of a skilled, humble BC hunter.  We talked about our backgrounds, told a couple of good hunting stories, and even got into some gear and LEH tips.  Great listen.  You can follow Ada on IG at the link below.   Adam @4pointoutdoors   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com     0:00 – Intro 2:10 – Adam’s...

In this episode, Jay sits down with Clay Lancaster.  Clay is one of the most widely regarded sheep outfitters in North America and is considered to be an expert in field ageing mature rams.  Although the purpose of the podcast was to focus on field ageing Clay and Jay dive into several different aspects of sheep hunting.  You can find out more about Clay and book a hunt with him at the links below...

In this episode, Jay shares his thoughts about getting prepared for his first sheep hunt.  He also discusses a recent minor tear in his calf and his thoughts on IIFYM.   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com     0:00 – Intro 7:00 – Torn calf 15:46 – If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM) revelations: science vs results 24:36 – Thoughts on my upcoming sheep hunt

In this episode, Jay spends the entire episode digging into audience questions. We’re going to make this a regular occurrence so feel free to email questions for future episodes anytime.   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com

In this episode, Jay hangs out with Simon aka @backcountrybloodline and they talk about Simon’s background then get into some great bear hunting stories.   @backcountrybloodline @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com   0:00 – Intro 3:23 – Simon’s background 6:17 – Archery community in BC 10:55 – Simon’s first bear hunt 22:54 – Hunting with your kids 26:40 – Simon’s second bear...

In this episode, Jay dives into  the second half of his thorough post-hunt review of the gear he used on his recent solo mountain goat hunt in northern B.C.    Gear Covered: Sitka Blizzard GTX Gloves Sitka Stormfront GTX Gloves Zeiss Optics AGC Bino Harness La Sportiva Nepal GTX Boots WHOOP Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles Kifaru Gunbearer Thermarest z-lite foam pad MSR Reactor Black D...

In this episode, Jay dives into a thorough post-hunt review of the gear he used on his recent solo mountain goat hunt in northern B.C.  In part 1 Jay goes over his pack, shelter, sleep system and all the clothes he took.    @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com   08:20 – Training and diet update 16:43 – Content creator of the week Connor Gabbot – IG: taluscreative 20:00 – Kif...

In this episode, Jay experiments with a new kind of podcast.  He took a field recorder with him on his latest adventure and tried to record a live hunt podcast as best he could.  Tune in to hear the results.   Whoop code https://join.whoop.com/#/2B3CD1 https://ogfoods.ca/ code Mindful15   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com

In this episode, Jay shares his opinion on what the best rifle for under $1000 is.  He also dives into his strategy for prepping the last week before the hunt and gives some tips on how to load a backpack for an extended backcountry trip.   Whoop code https://join.whoop.com/#/2B3CD1 https://ogfoods.ca/ code Mindful15   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com   0:00 – Intro 1:09...

In this episode, Jay discusses the importance of safety while solo hunting.  Some of the topics covered include bear safety, water purification, land nav, and communication tips.   Creator of the week IG: @stevendrakephoto   Whoop code https://join.whoop.com/#/2B3CD1 https://ogfoods.ca/ code Mindful15   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com   0:00 – Intro 1:03 – Training & di...

In this episode, Jay discusses why the little things matter too.  Most pack dump videos focus on the big-ticket items; shelters, clothing, boots etc.  Jay wanted to take some time and discuss all the little things you take on a hunt as well.  In addition, he covers his camera accessory bag and few other items of note.   @mindful_hunter jay@mindfulhunter.com www.mindfulhunter.com   0:00 – Intro 1:3...

In this episode, Jay dives into a boot review comparing the Schnee's Baertooh versus the Lathrop & Sons Mountain Hunter.  Having logged well over 200 miles in each of these boots across several different mountain hunts Jay is able to dig into the details that separate these two footwear options. In addition, this week Jay discusses how he has adapted his diet and training protocols now that the go...

In this episode, Jay compares the Hilleberg Akto and Soulto tents.  In less than 4 weeks Jay leaves on a solo backcountry hung and both these tents provide a different value proposition.  While the akto is lighter the soulo has more headroom.  After countless hours reading online reviews Jay decided the only sensible option was to buy both, set them up, and decide for himself.   @mindful_hunter ja...

In this episode, Jay discusses how to successfully design and build your own custom arrows.  He lists all the necessary tools and equipment and also lays out a clear design strategy followed up with simple construction instructions.    Jay also dives into his use of the peptide BPC-157 to try and solve a nagging pinched nerve issue and gives a brief update on his draw application strategy for AZ,...