The Mountain Dude Podcast

Nov 3, 2026 1 hr 21 min

He Left Everything Behind to Chase His Dream | Weston Homa

Season 2, Episode 20

Show notes

What would you do if you stopped waiting for the perfect moment and finally chased your dream?

On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, presented by Initial Ascent, we sit down with western hunter, ultramarathon runner, and Run the Rack Outdoors Podcast host Weston Homa to talk about faith, discipline, mental toughness, and what it takes to build a life around the things you love.

Weston grew up hunting whitetails, turkeys, and bears in Pennsylvania, but his passion for western hunting eventually led him to make a life-changing decision. He sold his house, packed up everything he owned, and moved across the country to Idaho without family or much of a support system waiting for him.

What started as a dream of chasing elk in the mountains became a lifestyle built around hunting, personal growth, and pushing his physical and mental limits.

Weston shares how he went from struggling to run a single mile to completing ultramarathons, including a 100-mile race, and running the Boston Marathon. He explains why embracing discomfort, building daily discipline, and learning from failure have helped him find success both in the mountains and in life.

We also dive into his approach to western hunting, backpacking preparation, nutrition, endurance training, and an unforgettable Idaho mule deer hunt with his father.

And before the episode ends, Weston inspires Initial Ascent co-founder Dennis Stokes to make a commitment of his own: run a marathon by May 31, 2027.

In this episode:

Why Weston left Pennsylvania to pursue western hunting in Idaho

Overcoming fear and taking the leap to chase your dreams

How to shorten the learning curve in western big game hunting

Building mental toughness through running and endurance training

Going from running one mile to completing a 100-mile ultramarathon

Daily discipline, faith, and creating productive habits

Nutrition, recovery, and physical preparation for backcountry hunting

An unforgettable Idaho mule deer hunt with his father

Why failure and discomfort are necessary for personal growth

Dennis commits to running his first marathon

Whether you're preparing for your first western elk hunt, training for a physical challenge, or trying to find the courage to pursue something bigger, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to have everything figured out to get started.

FOLLOW WESTON HOMA

YouTube: Search Weston Homa

Podcast: Run the Rack Outdoors Podcast, available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts

Instagram: Search Weston Homa

ABOUT INITIAL ASCENT

The Mountain Dude Podcast is presented by Initial Ascent, a hunting pack company focused on helping hunters carry heavy loads more comfortably.

Whether you're headed deep into the backcountry for an extended elk hunt or packing out your hard-earned harvest, Initial Ascent pack systems are built around comfort, simplicity, and modularity.

Explore Initial Ascent packs and gear:
https://initialascent.com

Subscribe to the Mountain Dude Podcast for conversations about western hunting, backcountry adventures, faith, fitness, personal growth, and the lessons learned through doing hard things.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Oct 27, 2026 1 hr 1 min

How Nate Illingworth Finally Found Success Hunting Elk

Season 2, Episode 19

Show notes

Four years of setbacks. Five elk seasons. Countless lessons learned. And one moment that made it all worth it.

On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, presented by Initial Ascent, we're joined by Nate Illingworth for a conversation filled with hunting stories, humor, faith, perseverance, and the lessons learned through years of chasing elk.

After spending seasons struggling to find elk, missing opportunities, and questioning his approach, Nate finally experienced the moment he'd been working toward: harvesting his first elk with a bow.

But the story didn't end with the shot.

After hours of searching with almost no blood to follow, Nate stopped to pray. What happened next turned an already unforgettable hunt into an emotional experience that brought him to tears.

Nate also shares the story of his first black bear hunt in Washington, an unforgettable backcountry pack out, helping his wife harvest an elk, and why he believes becoming a successful hunter starts long before hunting season.

Along the way, we dive into the importance of preparation, mental toughness, ethical shot placement, and how the challenges of elk hunting can teach us valuable lessons about life.

In this episode:

Nate's four-year journey to his first archery elk

The emotional recovery of his first elk with a bow

How faith and perseverance helped him through difficult moments

Hunting public land elk and learning from failure

Why preseason archery practice matters

Nate's first Washington black bear hunt and brutal pack out

Helping his wife successfully harvest an elk

Aggressive elk hunting tactics and building confidence

Lessons about life, discipline, and never giving up

Whether you're an experienced elk hunter, preparing for your first archery season, or simply someone who believes in the value of doing hard things, this episode is a reminder that success is built through preparation, persistence, and faith.

ABOUT INITIAL ASCENT

The Mountain Dude Podcast is proudly presented by Initial Ascent, makers of innovative hunting pack systems engineered to carry heavy loads more comfortably.

From early-season archery hunts to demanding backcountry pack outs, Initial Ascent pack systems are built around comfort, simplicity, and modularity.

Explore Initial Ascent: https://initialascent.com

Subscribe for more conversations about elk hunting, backcountry adventures, personal growth, faith, and the lessons learned in the mountains.

Carry heavy loads. Keep climbing.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Oct 20, 2026 59 min

Late Season Hunting Gear, Archery Lessons & a Backcountry Shelter Fail | Chris Young & Dennis Stokes

Season 2, Episode 18

Show notes

What changes in your hunting gear when September turns into November? And what happens when you hike six miles into the backcountry with the wrong tent?

On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, presented by Initial Ascent, Chris Young and Dennis Stokes talk through hard-earned archery hunting lessons, their favorite gear, and how they prepare for late season elk hunts.

Chris recaps his September mule deer season, sharing the challenges of stalking bucks in open country, getting an accurate range, and knowing when to pass on a shot. He also reflects on taking his four-year-old son hunting and why those shared experiences matter more than filling a tag.

Then we dive into backcountry hunting gear, comparing early season setups with the clothing, insulation, and shelter systems needed for November. From merino versus synthetic base layers to insulated boots, puffy pants, and choosing between the IA5K and IA8K, this conversation is packed with practical insights from time in the field.

Plus, Chris and Dennis tell the story behind a shelter mix-up that left two hunters at the snow line with a one-person tent and a valuable lesson about checking your gear before heading out.

Topics include:

• Spot and stalk mule deer hunting lessons
• Rangefinding challenges in open country
• Introducing kids to hunting
• Stalking shoes and the Initial Ascent Scout
• Early season versus late season hunting gear
• Base layers, mid layers, boots, and gloves
• Choosing a pack for longer, colder hunts
• Hot tent setups and checking borrowed gear

Explore Initial Ascent pack systems and accessories:
https://initialascent.com

Subscribe for more hunting stories, backcountry gear discussions, and conversations about carrying heavy loads on the mountain and in life.

#MountainDudePodcast #InitialAscent #BackcountryHunting #HuntingGear #ElkHunting #MuleDeerHunting

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Oct 13, 2026 1 hr 31 min

7 Years of Bowhunting Led to THIS Bull | IDAHUNT

Season 2, Episode 17

Show notes

Seven years of bowhunting. Countless hard lessons. Then one opportunity that made it all worth it.

On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with two from inside Initial Ascent, Chase and Cody, to relive an unforgettable September that ended with three brothers tagging three big bulls in one week.

Cody shares the story of his first successful archery harvest, a giant 6x7 bull, and the years of frustration, buck fever, and persistence that led to a moment he’ll never forget. Chase follows with his own emotional hunt, breaking down changing weather, close encounters, and the final stalk that brought everything together.

But some of their favorite memories came from helping others. Chase and Cody spent much of their season volunteering at a veterans’ elk camp, calling for hunters and sharing the excitement of first encounters. They explain how those experiences made them better hunters and gave the season a deeper meaning.

From staying calm at full draw to sharing success with your brother, this episode is about the lessons and memories that keep us coming back to the mountains.

Topics include:

• Cody’s seven-year journey to his first archery harvest
• Hunting herd bulls that won’t commit to calls
• Adjusting tactics during a September heat wave
• Managing buck fever and staying present during the shot
• Shot placement, recovery, and knowing when to wait
• Volunteering at a veterans’ elk camp
• Faith, brotherhood, and finding meaning in the hunt
• Why helping other hunters builds valuable experience

Subscribe for more hunting stories and lessons from the mountain, and check out IDAHUNT on YouTube for Chase and Cody’s hunting films.

What’s the biggest lesson elk hunting has taught you? Let us know in the comments.

Presented by Initial Ascent.

#MountainDudePodcast #InitialAscent #ElkHunting #Bowhunting #ArcheryElk

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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https://initialascent.com/

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Oct 6, 2026 56 min

The E-Scouting Guru and Secrets to Elk Hunting Success: Mark Livesay

Season 2, Episode 16

Show notes

This episode was so good that we had to run it again. On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we’re joined by none other than Mark Livesay: the E-Scouting Master behind TreeLine Academy and one of the most respected educators in the elk hunting world. Mark has spent decades refining his system for digital scouting elk hunting areas and has taught thousands of hunters how to create detailed hunt plans before they ever set foot in the mountains.

We dive into Mark’s journey from poring over topo maps to becoming one of the leading voices in e-scouting, elk hunting strategy, and hunt planning. He shares how technology like Google Earth, OnX Maps, and his own toolkits can give hunters an edge, but also why mental preparation, grit, and perseverance are just as important as any map or waypoint.

Topics we cover in this episode include:

How to break down new country using e-scouting for elk hunting

The importance of creating Plan A, B, C (and beyond) for every hunt

Why llamas are game-changing pack animals for backcountry hunters

The mental spiral: how mindset often makes or breaks a hunt

Tips for archery elk hunters and rifle hunters alike

Why surrounding yourself with tougher hunting partners leads to growth

Mark’s philosophy on never quitting early and how faith guides his approach to hunting and life

Mark also shares personal stories about 36+ years of elk hunting, running llamas in the backcountry, and how stepping into new terrain every season has sharpened his skills. Whether you’re prepping for archery elk season, looking to up your digital scouting game, or just want to learn from one of the most knowledgeable elk hunters alive, this episode is full of wisdom and practical takeaways.

Learn more at https://www.treelineacademy.net/

Follow Mark on Instagram: @treeline_pursuits

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Sep 29, 2026 1 hr 12 min

Eight Hours of Stalking a Mule Deer… Then Everything Fell Apart: Chris and Rodger Pt 2

Season 2, Episode 15

Show notes

Chris Young and Roger Holscher continue their early-season hunting recap from the desert in Part 2 of the Mountain Dude Podcast.

After days of difficult conditions and close calls, Chris finally locates a group of mule deer bucks and begins an eight-hour archery stalk through open sagebrush. With shifting wind, passing vehicles, limited cover, and four alert bucks working against him, every decision matters.

Chris breaks down the stalk from beginning to end, including how he used the terrain, managed his approach, selected a buck, and worked within bow range before an uncontrollable moment brought the entire opportunity crashing down.

The conversation then moves beyond hunting tactics. Chris and Roger speak honestly about missed opportunities, self-doubt, the pressure hunters put on themselves, time away from family, and the emotional lows that come when a hunt does not end as planned. Most importantly, they discuss learning to control the controllable, accepting what you cannot change, and finding the motivation to saddle back up and keep hunting.

Topics include:

Spot-and-stalk mule deer hunting
Closing distance in open sagebrush
Managing unpredictable wind
Stalking multiple bedded bucks
Archery hunting under pressure
Learning from unsuccessful opportunities
Handling failure and self-doubt
Balancing hunting with fatherhood and family
Controlling the controllable
Why bowhunters keep coming back

If you have ever spent hours building toward one opportunity only to watch it disappear, this episode will feel familiar.

Watch Part 1 to hear Roger’s complete early-season mule deer story and the beginning of Chris’s desert hunt.

Learn more about Initial Ascent Pack Systems:
https://initialascent.com/

Thanks for listening to the Mountain Dude Podcast. Subscribe to the channel, leave us a five-star review, and share this episode with another hunter.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Sep 22, 2026 1 hr 12 min

Two Misses, One Buck and a Brutal Start: Part 1- Chris and Rodger

Season 2, Episode 14

Show notes

Chris Young and Roger Holscher sit down from hunting camp to recap the highs and lows of early-season desert mule deer hunting.

In Part 1, Roger shares the complete story of his archery mule deer hunt, including two painful misses, lessons learned from hunting unforgiving rimrock country, and the opportunity that finally brought everything together. Roger also explains how he approached hunting water, dealt with extreme heat, managed shifting wind, and stayed confident after things went wrong.

Chris then begins the story of his own seven-day desert hunt, where difficult access, mechanical problems, unpredictable conditions, and elusive mule deer quickly turned the trip into a grind.

This episode is an honest conversation about archery hunting, missed opportunities, persistence, fatherhood, and defining success on your own terms.

Topics include:

Early-season desert mule deer hunting
Spot-and-stalk bowhunting
Hunting mule deer over water
Learning from missed shots
Reading wind and difficult terrain
Managing heat in the desert
Staying confident after failure
Hunting for experience instead of outside approval
Balancing hunting, fatherhood, and family

Part 2 continues with Chris’s hunt and one of the longest, most emotionally demanding mule deer stalks of his season.

Learn more about Initial Ascent Pack Systems:
https://initialascent.com/

Thanks for listening to the Mountain Dude Podcast. Subscribe to the channel, leave us a five-star review, and share this episode with another hunter.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
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Sep 15, 2026 55 min

He Chased This 193 Inch Mule Deer for Two Months: Brayden Staples

Season 2, Episode 13

Show notes

Brayden Staples joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to share the story behind his incredible 193 inch Utah mule deer and the months of persistence, close encounters and difficult decisions that shaped the experience.

Brayden grew up hunting with his family, but his approach changed when he fell in love with studying mature animals and understanding their behavior. After receiving a Utah Dedicated Hunter tag, he committed his season to one exceptional buck he nicknamed “The Dream.”

Throughout archery, muzzleloader and rifle season, Brayden faced missed opportunities, difficult choices and moments when it would have been easy to give up. He also shares the story of a memorable Utah elk hunt and the lessons he learned about patience, preparation and respecting personal limits in the field.

When exhaustion nearly kept Brayden home during rifle season, he made the decision to get up and try one more time. That decision ultimately led to an unforgettable conclusion to his season.

This episode is about much more than an impressive mule deer. It is a conversation about respecting wildlife, making responsible decisions, learning from setbacks and continuing to show up when it would be easier to quit.

“Get out of bed. You are not going to accomplish it from the couch.”

Follow Brayden Staples on Instagram at @bstaples

Follow Dark Energy for dependable portable power solutions designed for outdoor adventures.

Subscribe for more responsible hunting stories, outdoor experiences, gear conversations and episodes of the Mountain Dude Podcast.

This video documents a legal and regulated hunting experience. It is presented for educational, storytelling and outdoor lifestyle purposes. Always follow local regulations, prioritize safety and make responsible decisions in the field.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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Sep 8, 2026 44 min

Elk Calling Tactics for Every Phase of the Rut | Dirk Durham

Season 2, Episode 12

Show notes

Dirk Durham—better known as “The Bugler” from Phelps Game Calls—joins the Mountain Dude Podcast for a complete breakdown of archery elk calling strategies for every phase of September.

From the quiet opening days of archery elk season to the peak rut and unpredictable final week, Dirk explains how elk behavior changes throughout the month—and how hunters can adjust their calling tactics accordingly.

In this episode, we cover:

• Early-season elk calling strategies
• When to bugle versus when to cow call
• How to locate elk in thick timber and new country
• Reading north-facing slopes, benches and bedding cover
• Matching a bull’s calling intensity
• Why some elk approach without making a sound
• Using raking and subtle calling sequences
• Knowing when to close the distance
• Managing wind, thermals and hunting pressure
• Peak-rut calling tactics
• Late-September strategies for bulls searching for cows
• Why cow calls may be overused in pressured areas
• How to practice with a diaphragm call and bugle tube
• Common elk calling mistakes
• How Dirk identifies the sound of a mature bull

Whether you’re preparing for your first archery elk season or looking to improve your calling setups in pressured public-land country, this conversation is packed with practical elk hunting tips you can apply throughout September.

Dirk also demonstrates several different elk vocalizations and explains why successful calling isn’t always about being louder or more aggressive. The key is listening to the elk, understanding the situation and giving them the type of communication they are responding to.

This podcast is presented for educational and documentary purposes. Always hunt legally, ethically and responsibly, follow all applicable regulations, and prioritize safe shot selection.

SHOP PHELPS GAME CALLS:
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https://initialascent.com/pages/mountaindudepodcast

Subscribe for more archery elk hunting tips, backcountry hunting conversations, gear breakdowns and stories from hunters who continue to carry heavy loads and keep climbing.

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Sep 1, 2026 1 hr 17 min

Elk Every Year- Secrets to Long-Term Success in the West: Zach Bowhay

Season 2, Episode 11

Show notes

Back by popular demand! We are re-airing this episode from Summer 2025 on how to kill elk EVERY YEAR! It's just in time for September!

Zach Bowhay is one of the most consistently successful elk hunters in the West. In this episode, he joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to break down what it really takes to fill tags year after year—without relying on hype, gimmicks, or lucky draws. From generational hunting knowledge to mental toughness, Zach shares the mindset and strategies that have kept him punching tags across multiple states for decades.

Whether you’re chasing your first bull or looking to sharpen your edge in over-the-counter units, this conversation is full of wisdom earned through time in the field.

In this episode:

Zach’s top elk hunting story: solo success with a muzzleloader bull

How to pass on hunting as a lifestyle to your kids

Why mental toughness—not just physical shape—kills elk

How he stays in the mountains 30+ days each fall

Why you don’t need to go 10 miles deep to find elk

His tips for early season meat care, basecamp vs backpack hunting, and closing the distance on bulls

Lessons from 20+ years hunting Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, and Alaska

The single biggest mistake most new elk hunters make

Read Zach’s articles:
Search Zach Bowhay on HuntStand, Eastmans, Western Hunter, and North American Elk Magazine

Gear up for your own hunt at:
https://initialascent.com

Subscribe for more unfiltered hunting stories and field-proven advice from those who live it.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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Aug 25, 2026 58 min

How to Hunt Mature Mule Deer in Pressured Units | Martin Chag

Season 2, Episode 10

Show notes

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with mule deer hunter Martin Chag to break down what it takes to consistently find and hunt mature bucks in pressured, general units.

Martin shares how older mule deer behave differently, what their body language can reveal about their next move, and why he often avoids stalking a bedded buck altogether. Instead, he focuses on predicting where the deer is headed and setting up an ambush.

We also dive into scouting strategies, planning access routes before opening day, recovering mentally after a missed shot, overcoming target panic, and the unforgettable story of Martin missing the same mature buck multiple times.

Whether you’re preparing for an early-season archery hunt or trying to become a more effective mule deer hunter, this conversation is packed with practical lessons you can apply in the field.

In this episode:

• Finding mature mule deer in pressured units
• How older bucks behave differently
• Reading a buck’s body language
• Why Martin prefers ambushing over stalking
• Scouting access and exit routes
• Recovering mentally after a missed shot
• Bow preparation and overcoming target panic
• Martin’s pursuit of a 200-inch buck

Learn more about Initial Ascent and explore our backcountry hunting pack systems:
https://initialascent.com/

Subscribe for more conversations about western hunting, backcountry preparation, gear, and the people who live for the mountains.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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Aug 18, 2026 1 hr 12 min

Building of THEORY1 with Jamieson Crast & Austin Miller

Season 2, Episode 9

Show notes

What does it take to build a premium rifle company from the ground up—and document the failures, risks, and hard-earned wins along the way?

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Dennis and Chris sit down with the guys behind THEORY1, Jamieson Crast and Austin Miller. They share the story behind THEORY1, their approach to developing precision rifle systems, and why they chose to show the real process instead of presenting a polished highlight reel.

The conversation goes beyond rifles, diving into hunting films, storytelling, business, fatherhood, faith, and the lessons learned from time spent in the mountains. Jamieson and Austin also explain why transparency matters when developing new hunting gear, how failure can build trust, and what outdoor filmmakers can do to tell compelling stories—even when a hunt doesn’t end with a kill.

In this episode:

• The story behind THEORY1
• Building and testing premium hunting rifles
• Why THEORY1 publicly documents its failures
• Authenticity in an age of AI and automation
• Hunting, fatherhood, faith, and gratitude
• How to create a hunting film without a successful harvest
• What cameramen learn from hunting with elite hunters
• Why you shouldn’t give up and leave the mountain early
• Trusting your instincts in hunting, business, and life

Learn more about THEORY1 and explore its rifle systems, suppressors, ammunition, and more:
https://theory-1.com/

Watch and subscribe to THEORY1 on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@theory1official

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the Mountain Dude Podcast and let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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Aug 11, 2026 1 hr 12 min

What Should You Actually Eat in the Backcountry? Kyle Camp

Season 2, Episode 8

Show notes

Backcountry nutrition can make or break your hunt—and expensive gear won’t compensate for poor preparation.

Kyle Kamp of Valley to Peak Nutrition returns to the Mountain Dude Podcast to explain how hunters should fuel before, during, and after demanding days in the mountains. Kyle breaks down hydration, sodium intake, recovery, affordable backcountry meals, food storage, and the common nutrition mistakes that can drain your energy when it matters most.

We also discuss why hunters may benefit more from investing in their health, preparation, and experience instead of continually upgrading equipment.

In this episode:

• Building an effective backcountry nutrition plan
• Staying hydrated and managing sodium
• Fueling throughout long hunting days
• Simple homemade backcountry meals
• Improving recovery between hunts
• Spending money where it actually improves performance
• Why time at home matters more than any accomplishment

Learn more about Kyle Kamp and Valley to Peak Nutrition:
https://www.v2pnutrition.com/

Shop Initial Ascent pack systems and hunting gear:
https://initialascent.com/

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This episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical or nutritional advice.

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Aug 4, 2026 1 hr 16 min

Chad Mendes: The Preparation Behind Greatness

Season 2, Episode 7

Show notes

UFC legend Chad Mendes joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to talk about the mindset, discipline, and preparation that carried him from a small California farm town to the highest level of mixed martial arts.

Chad opens up about starting wrestling at five years old, becoming a two-time NCAA All-American, fighting for multiple UFC titles, and what it truly feels like when the cage door closes. He also shares stories from his battles with José Aldo, the origins of his “Money” nickname, life inside Team Alpha Male, and why preparation was always the foundation of his success.

Now living in Idaho, Chad has carried that same mentality into hunting, business, fatherhood, and conservation. He explains how preparing for a backcountry hunt compares to preparing for a championship fight, why passing hunting traditions on to the next generation matters, and why becoming a husband and father is the accomplishment he is most proud of.

Chad also talks about Fins and Featherz, his celebrity hunting and fishing guide service, his new energy gummy company Gate Drop, and the packed hunting season ahead.

This episode covers:

• Chad’s wrestling roots and college career
• His transition from wrestling into professional MMA
• Fighting José Aldo and competing for UFC gold
• Life with Team Alpha Male
• The mentality required to fight at the highest level
• How fighting preparation translates into hunting
• Raising kids around hunting and the outdoors
• Conservation and introducing new hunters
• Building Fins and Featherz and Gate Drop
• Why fatherhood means more than any championship

Follow Chad Mendes on Instagram and YouTube, and check out Fins and Featherz and Gate Drop to see what he is building outside the fight game.

Subscribe to the Mountain Dude Podcast for more conversations about hunting, fatherhood, faith, business, discipline, conservation, and life in the outdoors.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
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Jul 28, 2026 1 hr 3 min

How to Balance Hunting, Fatherhood, and Family: Chris Young

Season 2, Episode 6

Show notes

Hunting is about more than filling tags—it’s about the experiences, lessons, and traditions we pass down to the next generation.

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Chris records remotely after a 24-hour scouting trip with his four-year-old son, Kai. Together, they talk about searching for mule deer and antelope, learning new country, balancing hunting with family, and making the outdoors enjoyable for young kids.

Chris also shares practical advice for preparing for hunting season, including physical training, shooting consistently, scouting, maintaining your equipment, organizing your gear, and developing the discipline required to succeed when opening day arrives.

This episode is a reminder to chase the hunting experience you truly want, appreciate the time spent with your family, and start doing the work now that will prepare you for the season ahead.

Topics covered:

• Introducing young children to hunting and scouting
• Balancing fatherhood, family, business, and time outdoors
• Scouting desert mule deer and antelope
• Building discipline before hunting season
• Preparing your bow, vehicle, gear, and equipment
• Using visualization and mental preparation
• Why a successful hunt is about more than filling a tag

If you enjoyed this episode, leave a five-star review, subscribe to the channel, and share it with another hunter preparing for the upcoming season.

Initial Ascent creates premium hunting pack systems designed to carry heavy loads more comfortably.

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
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Jul 21, 2026 47 min

Grizzly Charges, Plane Crashes & 300 Days in the Field: Dan Whitmus

Season 2, Episode 5

Show notes

Professional hunter, guide, and lifelong outdoorsman Dan Whitmus returns to the Mountain Dude Podcast for one of our favorite conversations yet.

With over 300 days a year spent in the field, Dan shares what it's really like to make a living chasing adventure across Alaska, Africa, New Zealand, Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, and beyond. From surviving grizzly bear charges and a bush plane crash to helping first-time hunters experience their very first harvest, this episode is packed with incredible stories and even better life lessons.

But this conversation goes far beyond hunting. We dive into how Dan's perspective has evolved over four decades in the mountains, why too many hunters put unnecessary pressure on themselves, and why the greatest trophy isn't always hanging on the wall.

If you love elk hunting, backcountry adventure, grizzly stories, or simply hearing wisdom from someone who's truly lived it, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this episode:

Dan's unbelievable 300-day hunting calendar
Surviving multiple grizzly bear encounters
A bush plane crash in remote Alaska
Why experience matters more than trophies
The biggest mistakes hunters make
Lessons learned from 40+ years in the mountains
The evolution of a hunter
What keeps Dan chasing adventure after all these years

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment letting us know your favorite story from Dan.

Follow Dan Whitmus:
Instagram & Facebook: @danwhitmus

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https://initialascent.com

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#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Jul 14, 2026 1 hr 22 min

Don't Leave Dad at the Trailhead | Jake Arvold & Kaylee Stevens | First Phorm Outdoors

Season 2, Episode 4

Show notes

What if taking better care of yourself meant more seasons in the mountains with the people you love?

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Chris Young sits down with Jake Arvold and Kaylee Stevens of First Phorm Outdoors to talk about the deeper purpose behind fitness, faith, hunting, and living a life that allows you to experience more.

Jake shares the incredible story behind the creation of First Phorm Outdoors—from leaving college after hearing a life-changing podcast, to building a movement centered around health, community, and the outdoors. Along the way, the conversation dives into injury, perseverance, mental toughness, and the emotional realization that taking care of ourselves today can mean more years chasing elk, hiking mountains, and creating memories with our families tomorrow.

This isn't just a conversation about supplements or working out. It's about building a life that lets you keep answering the call of the mountains for decades to come.

If you enjoy authentic conversations about hunting, faith, fitness, family, and personal growth, be sure to subscribe and join us every week on the Mountain Dude Podcast.

👇 Learn more about First Phorm Outdoors:
https://1stphorm.com/

Follow First Phorm Outdoors:
https://www.instagram.com/1stphormoutdoors/

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https://initialascent.com/

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https://www.youtube.com/@MountainDudePodcast

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#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
https://initialascent.com/

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Jul 7, 2026 47 min

Most Men Stop Living Before They Die: Red Beard Outdoors

Season 2, Episode 3

Show notes

What happens when a man refuses to settle for a life of comfort, routine, and simply going through the motions?

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Chris Young sits down with Jonathan McCormick of Red Beard Outdoors to discuss faith, family, fitness, hunting, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Jonathan shares the incredible story of overcoming a life-threatening condition at birth, how mentorship introduced him to western hunting, and why he believes too many people are missing out on the adventures and experiences that make life worth living.

From raising kids in the outdoors to preparing yourself physically and mentally for the future, this conversation is packed with wisdom for hunters, fathers, husbands, and anyone looking to live with more purpose.

Topics covered:

Jonathan's incredible survival story
Growing up in North Carolina
Serving a mission in Mexico
Finding western hunting later in life
The importance of mentorship
Raising kids in the outdoors
Faith, family, fitness, and purpose
Building Red Beard Outdoors
Why adventure matters
Leaving a legacy for future generations

If you're a hunter, father, husband, or simply someone looking to become the best version of yourself, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Listen to more Mountain Dude Podcast episodes:
https://www.initialascent.com

Follow Jonathan McCormick / Red Beard Outdoors:
Instagram: @redbeard.outdoors
YouTube: Red Beard Outdoors

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Website: https://www.initialascent.com

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Jun 30, 2026 42 min

How to Actually Kill Big Mule Deer: Travis Nowotny

Season 2, Episode 2

Show notes

What separates hunters who occasionally get lucky from hunters who consistently find and kill mature mule deer year after year?

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Chris Young and Dennis sit down with Idaho bowhunter Travis Nowotny to dive deep into the mindset, scouting strategies, and stalking tactics that have helped him become one of the most respected mule deer hunters in the West. From summer scouting and locating target bucks to closing the final yards on a mature deer, Travis shares decades of hard-earned lessons from chasing giant bucks on public land.

The conversation goes far beyond hunting tactics. Travis opens up about balancing family, business ownership, and an obsession with hunting while building a life that allows him to pursue what matters most. He also shares one of the most powerful lessons he's learned after years of chasing mature bucks:

"You can't kill the buck if you don't try."

In This Episode:
How Travis scouts for mature mule deer
Finding target bucks before season opens
Spot-and-stalk tactics for open-country mule deer
Wind, thermals, and closing the final distance
Why confidence kills more bucks than gear
Lessons learned from decades of bowhunting
Balancing family, business, and hunting
The mistakes that cost hunters opportunities on giant deer

If you're preparing for mule deer season, looking to become a more effective bowhunter, or simply enjoy hearing from hunters who consistently get it done, this episode is packed with practical knowledge you can apply this fall.

GOAT KNIVES 4TH OF JULY SALE

Travis is also the founder of Goat Knives, a company built around creating lightweight, purpose-built knives for serious hunters.

For a limited time, Goat Knives is offering 15% OFF sitewide through July 4th, making it a great time to upgrade your hunting kit before the season.

Check them out:
GoatKnives.com

Follow Travis:
@travisnowotny

Mountain Dude Podcast
Hosted by Chris Young

Faith. Family. Hunting. Becoming better in the mountains and in life.

#MountainDudePodcast #TravisNowotny #MuleDeerHunting #Bowhunting #PublicLandHunter #WesternHunting #ArcheryHunting #BigBuckHunting #SpotAndStalk #BackcountryHunting #GoatKnives #HuntingPodcast #MuleDeer #IdahoHunting #ChrisYoung

Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly.
#MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast
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