Elk once roamed much of the eastern United States but restoring them has taken decades of science, funding, and collaboration. In this episode, Steven Dobey, Mission Lead for the Eastern Region of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), joins us to explore how elk restoration has succeeded across Appalachia and the Midwest. We discuss the history of eastern elk extirpation, modern restoration efforts, and how states like Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Tennessee, Arkansas, and North Carolina are managing growing elk populations today. Steven explains how hunters, conservation organizations, and state agencies work together through habitat protection, conservation easements, public access projects, and research, often leveraging Pittman-Robertson funds alongside private donations. The conversation also dives into current challenges, including disease risk (CWD), fragmented private land ownership, wildlife corridors, and balancing human–elk coexistence in the East. This episode highlights how elk restoration benefits far more than elk, improving habitat for deer, turkeys, bears, and countless non-game species. If you’re interested in how wildlife conservation is funded and delivered on the ground, this is a must-listen episode. Learn more: Wildlife Management Institute — https://wildlifemanagement.institute Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation — https://www.stewardsofconservation.org Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation — https://www.rmef.org   #ElkRestoration , #RockyMountainElkFoundation , #wildlifeconservation , #wildlife , #publicland , #habitatprotection , #pittmanrobertson , #HuntersForConservation , #elkhunting , #conservationfunding , #AppalachianWildlife , #connectingwithconservation , #RMEF , #wildlifemanagementinstitute , #outdoorstewards , #wildlifemanagement

Commissioner Judy Camuso of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife joins us to explore one of the most wildlife-rich states in the U.S. We dive into the science, management, and on-the-ground conservation work that keeps Maine’s natural heritage thriving. From world-class target shooting programs and public shooting ranges, to ice-fishing traditions, brook trout and Arctic char research, and the nation’s longest-running black bear study, this episode highlights how conservation science shapes real results. We also discuss Maine’s adaptive moose management in the face of winter tick impacts, innovative camera-trap monitoring for furbearers, Operation Game Thief’s efforts against poaching, and a surprising new discovery—golden eagles wintering in Maine. Whether you hunt, fish, trap, shoot, watch wildlife, or simply love the outdoors, Maine has opportunities found nowhere else. If you enjoy behind-the-scenes conservation stories, give this episode a thumbs up and subscribe to get updates when new episodes drop.   Learn more: Wildlife Management Institute — https://wildlifemanagement.institute Stewards of Conservation Foundation — https://www.stewardsofconservation.org New England Naturals — https://www.nenaturals.com #maine ,   #conservationscience , #moose , #ArcticChar , #blackbear , #HuntingCulture , #icefishing , #targetshooting , #wildlifemanagement , #outdoorrecreation , #pittmanrobertson , #fishandwildlife , #eagles , #brooktrout , #OerationGameThief , #connectingwithconservation , #wildlifemanagementinstitute #outdoorstewards

Discover the essential role that regulated trapping plays in North American wildlife conservation. In this episode, Jon and Jim sit down with Jake DeBow of New England Naturals to explore how modern trapping works, why it matters, and how fur, meat, and other resources can be utilized in sustainable and ethical ways. We discuss the real science behind trapping, state wildlife agency needs, and how trappers contribute critical data to wildlife management programs.    Jake also shares how he and his wife built New England Naturals into a fast-growing fur products and education brand—combining traditional fur handling with modern outreach through social media. From innovative uses of Merino-lined beaver mittens to educational videos reaching millions, Jake explains how transparency, communication, and responsible practices can win over the “middle 80%” of the public who may not fully understand trapping.    We also dive into predator-prey balance, beaver management, sustainability, best management practices (BMPs), and why regulated trapping remains an indispensable tool for wildlife agencies. Whether you’re a trapper, hunter, angler, conservation professional, or simply curious, this episode offers a clear, fact-based look behind the scenes at a part of conservation many people rarely get to see.   For more information: Wildlife Management Institute (WMI): https://wildlifemanagement.institute/ Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation: https://www.stewardsofconservation.org/ New England Naturals: https://newenglandnaturals.net/   #trapping #wildlifemanagement #Furbearers #NewEnglandNaturals #outdoorstewards #RegulatedTrapping #SustainableUse #HuntingAndTrapping #conservationpodcast #conservation #wildlife #connectingwithconservation #wildlifemanagementinstitute

Go behind the scenes of West Virginia’s wildlife management with Paul Johansen, Director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we explore how elk restoration, big-game management, and healthy forests are funded and sustained through hunting and fishing license dollars, federal excise taxes, and powerful public–private partnerships. Paul shares how West Virginia successfully rebuilt an elk population in the Appalachian coalfields, modeled after Kentucky’s nationally recognized restoration program. We dive into the challenges of wildlife health, including hemorrhagic disease in deer and avian influenza in birds, and how state wildlife agencies use science-based management to protect habitat, species, and outdoor recreation opportunities. We also highlight West Virginia’s exceptional trout fisheries, public lands, bird watching opportunities, and the state’s commitment to R3—recruitment, retention, and reactivation of hunters and anglers. Whether you hunt, fish, hike, or simply enjoy getting outside, this episode explains how conservation really works and why sportsmen and women continue to be the driving force behind America’s wildlife success stories. For more information, go to: www.wvdnr.gov www.wildlifemanagement.institute www.stewardsofconservation.org   #conservation #conservationpodcast #wildlifemanagement #westvirginia #ElkRestoration #HuntingHeritage #fishing #publiclands #afwa #wildlifehealth #outdoorrecreation #outdoorstewards #wildlifemanagementinstitute #connectingwithconservation

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Kyle Tengwall, Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Strategy at Smith & Wesson. Kyle shares insights from more than 25 years in the shooting sports and outdoor industry, including his early days at Federal Ammunition, his time with Duck Commander at the height of Duck Dynasty, and his leadership role at one of America’s most iconic firearm manufacturers. Kyle discusses Smith & Wesson’s deep connection to conservation through the Pittman–Robertson Act, with more than $257 million in excise-tax contributions over the past five years helping fund wildlife management, public shooting ranges, hunter education, habitat access, and other on-the-ground conservation efforts. The conversation also explores S&W’s role in supporting veterans, expanding opportunities for new shooters, and the launch of the new Smith & Wesson Academy, offering training for both civilians and law enforcement. From the resurgence of lever-action rifles to responsible firearm ownership, competitive shooting, and the importance of welcoming newcomers, this episode gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how manufacturers and sportsmen fuel the conservation model that benefits all Americans. For more information, go to: https://www.smith-wesson.com, https://www.wildlifemanagement.institute, or https://www.outdoorstewards.org.   #conservation , #SmithAndWesson , #FirearmsIndustry , #hunting , #shootingsports , #OutdoorIndustry , #pittmanrobertson , #wildlifemanagement , #leveractionrifle , #targetshooting , #gunsafety , #firearmtraining , #outdoorrecreation , #connectingwithconservation , #podcastepisode , #outdoorstewards , #wildlifemanagementinstitute

This episode of “Connecting with Conservation” features an in-depth conversation with Jason Lupardus, CEO of Turkeys for Tomorrow, alongside Jon Gassett of the Wildlife Management Institute and Jim Curcuruto from Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation. The hosts and guest discuss the challenges facing wild turkey populations across the southeastern United States. Jason shares personal stories from his early days turkey hunting in Alabama and his long career in wildlife biology, illustrating why grassroots efforts matter in modern conservation. Key topics covered include regional declines in turkey productivity, the impact of habitat fragmentation, predation, and changing hunter behavior, as well as research efforts led by Turkeys for Tomorrow. Jason elaborates on the organization’s science-driven approach, how demographic shifts—more 20-30 year-old members—are shaping conservation, and the importance of active management strategies to ensure turkey populations thrive. Conversation highlights how feeding practices impact wildlife behaviors and disease transmission, making a case for more thoughtful wildlife management. Listeners learn how organizations like Turkeys for Tomorrow, the Wildlife Management Institute (https://wildlifemanagement.institute), and Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (https://outdoorstewards.org) are collaborating to support research, habitat management, and hunter education. Jason provides actionable recommendations for both hunters and non-hunters, emphasizing simple steps such as stopping wildlife feeding and encouraging the return of traditional woodsmanship. Resources and contact information are shared, including the Turkeys for Tomorrow website (https://turkeysfortomorrow.org), which offers opportunities for volunteering, attending events, and donating in support of critical conservation research. The episode closes by reminding listeners that conservation takes broad participation and ongoing curiosity to preserve both turkeys and the hunting heritage for future generations. #TurkeyConservation , #wildlifemanagement , #outdoorstewards , #TurkeysForTomorrow , #habitatrestoration , #PrescribedFire , #conservationpodcast , #Woodsmanship , #PredatorManagement , #huntingethics , #SoutheasternWildlife , #wildlifemanagementinstitute , #wildlife , #hunting

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett of the Wildlife Management Institute and Jim Curcuruto of the Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation sit down with John Nelson, President of the USA Clay Target League, to explore one of America’s fastest-growing high school sports — competitive clay target shooting. Nelson shares how the league began around a Minnesota kitchen table in 2007 and has since expanded to nearly 2,000 school-sponsored teams across 39 states, involving more than 55,000 student athletes. The conversation highlights the league’s unmatched safety record — over 300 million shots fired without a single reported injury — and how participation fosters discipline, teamwork, and respect for firearms while connecting young people and their families to the outdoors. Listeners will also learn how the USA Clay Target League helps drive wildlife conservation funding through excise taxes on firearms and ammunition, supports inclusive participation for all students, and partners with state agencies and shooting ranges to expand opportunities nationwide. Whether you’re a conservation professional, outdoor educator, or simply curious about the link between target shooting and conservation, this discussion offers an inspiring look at how youth shooting sports strengthen communities, build safer habits, and invest in the future of conservation. For more information on USA Clay Target League visit www.usaclaytarget.com #connectingwithconservation , #wildlifemanagementinstitute , #outdoorstewards , #USACLAYTargetLeague, #YouthShootingSports, #conservationfunding , #wildlifeconservation , #highschoolsports , #targetshooting , #firearmsafety , #pittmanrobertson , #outdooreducation

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett of the Wildlife Management Institute and Jim Curcuruto from Outdoor Stewards of Conservation sit down with Dr. Mark Ruder, Director of the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study (SCWDS) at the University of Georgia. They explore the science, history, and management implications of hemorrhagic disease in white-tailed deer and other wildlife. Dr. Ruder breaks down how diseases like Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and Bluetongue Virus are transmitted by biting midges, why outbreaks vary across regions, and how deer populations recover over time. The discussion also touches on misconceptions between EHD and Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), the impact of outbreaks on hunters and conservation agencies, and how wildlife health research is funded through hunter and excise tax dollars. Whether you’re a biologist, hunter, or conservation enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of wildlife health, research, and conservation funding in North America.   #wildlifemanagementinstitute , #outdoorstewards , #wildlifemanagement , #deerdisease, #ehd , #cwd , #conservationpodcast , #conservation #outdoorstewards , #wildlifehealth , #hunting , #hemorrhagicdisease, #SCWDS, #universityofgeorgia , #deermanagement , #wildliferecovery

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, Dr. Jon Gassett of the Wildlife Management Institute and co-host Jim Curcuruto of Outdoor Stewards of Conservation travel (virtually) to the U.S. Virgin Islands to talk with Dr. Nicole Angeli, Director of the U.S. Virgin Islands Division of Fish and Wildlife. Dr. Angeli shares her remarkable path from field researcher to leading wildlife conservation efforts across the Caribbean. She discusses the challenges of managing limited land and resources, protecting migratory birds and sport fish, updating outdated hunting laws, and fostering community involvement through archery and fishing programs. Listeners will learn how the Virgin Islands’ unique ecosystems connect directly to mainland conservation priorities through programs funded by Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson excise taxes. From coral reef restoration to data-driven management and international partnerships, this episode highlights how even small island territories play a vital role in North American wildlife conservation.   #connectingwithconservation , #wildlifemanagementinstitute , #outdoorstewards , #conservationpodcast , #usvirginislands , #wildlifeconservation , #sportfishing , #archery , #pittmanrobertson , #DingellJohnson, #CaribbeanWildlife, #migratorybirds, #fishandwildlife , #habitatrestoration , #wahoofishing , #tarpon , #biodiversity , #environmentalleadership , #wildlifemanagement

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with legendary angler Boyd Duckett, co-founder and CEO of Major League Fishing (MLF). Boyd shares how MLF is reshaping tournament fishing through innovation, conservation, and youth engagement — from high-school and college programs to real-time “catch, weigh, and release” technology that protects fish and supports better data for state fisheries. They dive deep into how fishing licenses and excise taxes fund billions for wildlife conservation, the importance of the Clean, Drain, Dry program, and the role anglers play in protecting waterways from invasive species. Boyd also gives listeners an inside look at the MLF Fisheries Management Division, cutting-edge data initiatives, and his passion for crappie fishing on Lake Guntersville. Whether you’re a lifelong angler or just conservation-curious, this conversation will leave you inspired to grab your rod — and your fishing license — and do your part for the outdoors.   #Conservation #Fishing #BassFishing #MajorLeagueFishing #BoydDuckett #WildlifeConservation #OutdoorStewards #CatchWeighRelease #FisheriesManagement #CleanDrainDry #CrappieFishing #BassProTour #OutdoorPodcast #FishingPodcast #ConnectingWithConservation #WildlifeManagement #FishingForTheFuture #YouthFishing #SustainableFishing #MLF #wildlifemanagement #WildlifeManagementInstitute

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Jeff Sterner, a lifelong outdoorsman and the Channel Sales Manager for Benelli USA, to talk about how one of the most trusted names in firearms fuels conservation across America. From the legendary Super Black Eagle to the innovative Lupo Rifle, Jeff shares the history, technology, and reliability that make Benelli a favorite among hunters—and how their commitment extends far beyond the field. Hear how Benelli supports conservation groups through excise taxes, fundraising, donations, and partnerships, and learn why hunters, anglers, trappers, and shooters remain the primary funders of wildlife conservation in the U.S. Whether you’re a waterfowler, deer hunter, or just passionate about protecting wild places, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and appreciation for the people who make conservation happen. #wildlifeconservation, #ConnectingWithConservation, #BenelliUSA, #JeffSterner, #outdoorpodcast, #hunting, #duckhunting, #turkeyhunting, #conservation, #wildlife, #shotguns, #rifles, #SuperBlackEagle, #LupoRifle, #outdoors, #habitat, #DucksUnlimited, #NWTF, #RMEF, #sportsmen, #deerhunting, #archery, #waterfowl, #wildgamemeat, #PittmanRobertson, #huntereducation, #WildlifeManagementInstitute, #StewardsofConservation

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Gene Gilliland, National Conservation Director for B.A.S.S. Gene shares his journey from fisheries biologist to leading national bass conservation efforts and explains how Bassmaster balances the excitement of tournament fishing with the responsibility of fish care and habitat protection. The conversation covers the history of B.A.S.S., the role of Bass Nation chapters, and the organization’s conservation agenda—from invasive species management and habitat restoration to improving fish handling and care during tournaments. Gene also discusses techniques like “fizzing” for deep-caught bass, proper catch-and-release practices, and the importance of educating youth through digital platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, conservation professional, or someone who just loves the outdoors, this episode provides valuable insight into how fishing organizations and partners are working to protect America’s aquatic resources. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help us bring more conversations about conservation to a wider audience. #bass #fishing, #bassfishing, #Bassmaster, #bassconservation, #fishcare , #catchandrelease, #basstournaments, #invasivespecies, #fishhabitat, #youthfishing, #fishingaccess, #conservationpodcast, #ConnectingwithConservation, #wildlifeconservation, #fisheriesmanagement, #ethicalfishing, #sportfishing, #outdoorpodcast, #WildlifeManagementInstitute, #OutdoorStewards

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, co-hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Ben Martin, founder of the Hunt Regs app. Ben shares his journey from a self-taught angler in Indiana and Florida to discovering the world of public-land hunting in college—and the challenges that came with navigating complex and often confusing hunting regulations. The conversation dives deep into how Hunt Regs was created to simplify the way hunters access laws and rules, ensuring compliance while enhancing outdoor opportunities. Ben explains the painstaking process of building accurate, state-by-state regulation databases, why accidental violations undermine wildlife management, and how technology can provide clarity in an often-murky landscape. A highlight of this discussion is Hunt Regs’ collaboration with state agencies to add a streamlined poaching-reporting system. Ben walks through how the tool empowers hunters and non-hunters alike to quickly and anonymously report violations, illegal dumping, and other outdoor crimes—helping game wardens get timely, high-quality information. If you’ve ever struggled to interpret a thick hunting regulation digest or wondered how technology can directly support conservation, this episode is for you. Learn how one innovative app is connecting people to the outdoors, protecting wildlife resources, and making sure that hunters and anglers can step into the field with confidence.   #ConnectingWithConservation #HuntRegs #Conservation #Hunting #Fishing #WildlifeManagement #Poaching #PublicLands #OutdoorEthics #HuntingRegulations #WildlifeConservation #GameWardens #HuntingApp #OutdoorStewards #WildlifeManagement #WildlifeManagementInstitute

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Rachel Crume of Kentucky Fish and Wildlife to explore the world of blood tracking with dogs. Rachel shares her personal journey into hunting and how she became a passionate advocate for game recovery using tracking dogs. The conversation covers the ethics of responsible hunting, why tracking is essential for conservation, and how dogs—ranging from bloodhounds to wire-haired dachshunds—play a crucial role in recovering wounded deer. Rachel also discusses her involvement with United Blood Trackers, training tips for hunters, and the bond between handlers and their dogs. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just curious about the role of dogs in wildlife conservation, this episode offers valuable insights into a little-known but vital part of the hunting tradition.   #deertracking, #blood, #huntingethics, #RachelCrume, #connectingwithconservation, #huntingwithdogs, #UnitedBloodTrackers, #wildlifeconservation, #archeryhunting, #bowhunting, #whitetaileddeer, #dogtraining, #conservationeducation, #ethicalhunting, #gameretrieval, #outdoorstewardsofconservation, #wildlifemanagementinstitute

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto talk with Tom Decker, Branch Manager at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Conservation Investment about how excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, fishing gear, and motorboat fuels generate more than $1 billion annually to fund fish and wildlife conservation across the country. Tom explains how these funds drive habitat management, fish hatcheries, public access, shooting ranges, and education programs, and how partnerships with industry and state agencies sustain America’s wildlife and outdoor traditions. Tom also highlights programs like the National Hunting and Fishing Survey, trapping initiatives, and “Partner with a Payer,” which connects industry leaders with conservation professionals. This episode reveals how one of the most successful funding models in conservation history continues to support wildlife, outdoor recreation, and future generations. #ConnectingWithConservation #WildlifeConservation #FishAndWildlife #ConservationFunding #OutdoorStewards #USFWS #HuntingAndFishing #PublicLands #TrappingMatters #PartnerWithAPayer #WildlifeManagementInstitute

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Dan Cabela, Executive Director of the Cabela Family Foundation and host of Hard Truths of Conservation. Dan shares his journey growing up in the legendary Cabela family, the founding of the Cabela Family Foundation, and how his work has evolved into one of the most compelling conservation storytelling projects on television. Together, they explore the concept of sustainable use of wildlife, the importance of habitat protection, and the role of hunters, biologists, and communities in protecting species across the globe. From restoring bighorn sheep in Texas to translocating lions and cheetahs in Africa, Dan discusses the hard truths of conservation—why it matters, what’s at stake, and the heroes doing the work behind the scenes. Whether you’re a lifelong outdoorsman, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of conservation, this conversation offers a rare inside look at the challenges and triumphs of protecting wildlife in the modern world. Tags: #wildlifeconservation, #sustainableuse, #habitatprotection, #hunting, #conservation, #CabelaFamilyFoundation, #HardTruthsofConservation, #DanCabela, #bighornsheep, #lionconservation, #cheetahconservation, #wildlifescience, #ConnectingwithConservation, #sustainablehunting

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, co-hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto welcome Dan Wolgin, CEO of Ammunition Depot, for an eye-opening discussion on how legislation can directly impact conservation, the outdoor sporting community, and Second Amendment rights. Dan shares the unique origin story of Ammunition Depot—from a commodity hedge fund to a leading retailer—and unpacks how the company navigated unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic while staying true to its customers. The conversation dives deep into California’s ammunition laws, the legal battle spearheaded by Ammunition Depot alongside major organizations like the NRA and California Rifle and Pistol Association, and the far-reaching consequences for sportsmen and recreational shooters across the country. We also spotlight Ammunition Depot’s Veterans Education Tuition Fund (VETF), a charitable initiative supporting the children of fallen soldiers with college tuition grants, and discuss how programs like First Shots are helping to grow participation in shooting sports in a safe, inclusive way.   If you care about conservation, access to the outdoors, and the balance between regulation and rights, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.   #Ammunition #Hunting #Conservation #AmmunitionDepot #Firearms #WildlifeConservation #ConnectingWithConservation #OutdoorStewards   For more information on Ammunition Depot, visit: https://ammunitiondepot.com and https://www.ammunitiondepot.com/about-us/dan-wolgin/   Links: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8QZvUf__uo&t=267s Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0mkJEzXJ5f1PaPitMPxNbK Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/season-2-episode-35-ammo-advocacy-and-access-dan/id1772098772?i=1000722685787 Podbean: https://jgassett.podbean.com/e/season-2-episode-35-ammo-advocacy-and-access-dan-wolgin-talks-ammo-legislation-and-conservation/ 

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Brandon Maddox, founder and CEO of Silencer Central—the largest silencer dealer in the United States. Brandon shares his unique journey from pharmacist to leading the suppressor industry, making the purchase process simple and accessible nationwide. We bust common myths about suppressors, explore their benefits for hunting, shooting sports, and hearing protection, and discuss why they’re embraced by conservation-minded shooters around the world. Brandon also reveals how Silencer Central partners with conservation groups, donating millions in products to support wildlife habitat, public lands, and hunting heritage. Plus, hear his thoughts on upcoming legislation that could reshape suppressor ownership in America, his own hunting adventures, and the launch of new products like the Banish shotgun suppressor. If you’re curious about how suppressors work, their role in modern conservation, and the easiest way to get one delivered to your door, this episode is for you. #Suppressors #Hunting #Conservation #SilencerCentral #BanishSuppressors #Firearms #WildlifeConservation #ConnectingWithConservation #HearingProtection #OutdoorStewards #WildlifeManagementInstitute

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we sit down with Matt Whitman, Vice President of Marketing for American Outdoor Products, to explore how outdoor brands connect with today’s consumers—and what that means for the future of conservation. Matt shares insight from years of experience leading marketing strategy for well-known outdoor gear and apparel companies, and how those brands position themselves in a crowded marketplace. We discuss the importance of authenticity in outdoor messaging, how companies navigate trends like sustainability and access, and why brand loyalty often stems from more than just product quality. From freeze-dried meals to lifestyle branding, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at how outdoor products are marketed—and how that marketing can support broader conservation goals.

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Cucaruto sit down with Tony Wasley—former Director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife and current President and CEO of the Wildlife Management Institute (WMI). The conversation dives deep into the roots and evolution of North American conservation, the challenges of outdated funding models, the need for broader public engagement, and the launch of a new initiative to define conservation’s next 50 years.   Tony shares insights on his personal journey in wildlife management, the shifting role of public trust in conservation, and how modern issues like technology, habitat loss, and relevancy are shaping the future. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, policymaker, or simply passionate about the outdoors, this episode sheds light on why conservation affects us all—and what we can do to protect our natural heritage.