What really keeps wildlife thriving—and why hunters, science, and communities all matter now. Season four of The Hard Truths of Conservation is here, and this conversation sets the tone for what may be the most ambitious season yet. Dan Cabela joins Hunt Fish Freedom to break down the real work happening behind wildlife conservation—far beyond headlines, emotion, or social media soundbites. Explore how modern conservation actually functions on the ground, from relocating American bison in remote Alaska to studying brown bear movement through cutting-edge wildlife science. Dan explains why hunters, anglers, biologists, veterinarians, and Indigenous communities all play essential roles in protecting wild places and managing wildlife responsibly. Gain insight into how hunting and fishing fit into modern wildlife management, why science-driven decisions matter more than feelings alone, and how sustainable harvests support both ecosystems and rural food security. The conversation also dives into misconceptions held by non-hunters, the importance of telling the full hunting story, and why neutrality can be harmful when informed voices stay silent. From bison conservation and bear research to global wildlife challenges across North America, Africa, and beyond, this episode delivers an insider look at conservation work that rarely makes it to television screens. It’s a grounded, honest discussion that challenges listeners—hunters and non-hunters alike—to better understand what it truly takes to conserve wildlife in a crowded, modern world. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Dan Cabela’s’s work: dan cabela foundation  Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

From mountain goats to freezer meals, Jana Waller-Bair reveals how hunting shapes stronger, more resilient lives. Kenia Link sits down with legendary hunter, conservation advocate, and Skullbound founder Jana Waller-Bair for a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what hunting truly represents far beyond pulling a trigger. Jana shares hard-earned lessons from decades in the field, from Western elk hunting and mountain goat pursuits to whitetail camps in the Midwest. Together, they unpack how hunting builds confidence, self-reliance, and a deeper connection to food sourcing especially in a world increasingly disconnected from where meat comes from. The conversation dives into ethical hunting, wildlife management, and why hunters and anglers remain the backbone of conservation funding across North America. Listeners will hear powerful insights on mentorship and the growing impact of women in hunting, including Jana’s firsthand experience with the Wild Sheep Foundation’s Women Hunt program. These programs don’t just teach firearm safety and shooting fundamentals they create lifelong outdoorsmen and women who understand land stewardship, field processing, and the responsibility that comes with harvesting wild game. The episode also explores gear evolution, mental toughness, and how pushing past fear whether in freezing tree stands or on sheer mountain faces translates into real-world resilience. From waterfowl hunting to big game strategies, this is an insider conversation rooted in respect for wildlife, community, and the freedom found outdoors. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Jana Waller-Bair’s work: https://skullboundchronicles.com  Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

How one wildlife artist turns hunting moments into timeless art that honors animals and ethical conservation. In this episode of Hunt Fish Freedom, we sit down with UK-based wildlife artist Katie Hargreaves to explore the powerful intersection of hunting, art, and conservation. Known for her striking charcoal drawings of deer, elk, and game species, Katie shares how her work is deeply shaped by time spent in the field alongside hunters observing animals, understanding behavior, and capturing the moment before the shot. The conversation goes beyond just art on the wall, though. Katie explains how hunting informs her creative process, why minimalism allows the animal to take center stage, and how firsthand exposure to deer management and driven pheasant shoots influences her perspective. Listeners will gain insight into how ethical hunting supports healthy wildlife populations, reduces human wildlife conflict, and plays a critical role in conservation particularly in landscapes with limited wild space. We also dive into the emotional side of hunting: memory, gratitude, and respect for the animal. Katie discusses creating commissioned pieces that commemorate first deer, red stags, and bucket-list hunts, offering hunters a meaningful alternative to traditional trophies. Her unique viewpoint as both a hunter and an ethical vegan adds nuance to the discussion around wild game meat, responsibility, and connecting modern life back to our hunter-gatherer roots. This is an insider conversation for hunters, anglers, and outdoorsmen who care deeply about wildlife, storytelling, and leaving the landscape better than they found it. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Katie Hargreaves’ work: https://www.katiehargreavesart.com/capture-the-hunt Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

Some moments don’t announce themselves as life-changing until years later. In this short episode, Kenia looks back on an early outdoor experience that planted the seed for a lifelong passion—one rooted in patience, presence, and time spent with her dad. It’s a reflection on how the outdoors shapes us in ways we don’t fully understand until we step back and listen. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Check out a photo from the hunt: https://www.instagram.com/p/DE2UXH3OGx5/?igsh=b3BiNTliczY1aGVv Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr Follow Kenia on X: https://x.com/kenialink_?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow Kenia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenialink_?igsh=MXBpa2xpYnp4ZHE2cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Follow Kenia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RbJCd3uxh/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow Kenia on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenialink_?_r=1&_t=ZT-92Kw0J0yATW Sound effects and sound design for Off The Trail provided by: Editing and sound design by Trout Stream Studios Forest snow falling and birds by xkeril -- https://freesound.org/s/673266/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 walking in the snow.wav by brick_on_de -- https://freesound.org/s/274131/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 gun lee enfield 303 rifle clean shot.wav by kyles -- https://freesound.org/s/450853/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

A powerful look at how real hunters fight for access, protect tradition, and mentor the next generation. Joining Kenia this week is Jared Bornstein, a Maine lobbyist, dedicated outdoorsman, and the force behind programs that get more kids into the woods and on the water.  Jared breaks down how youth hunting mentorship, moose hunting access, and his year-round program Moose Maine Kids are helping kids and families step into the outdoors, many for the first time. You’ll hear how his personal journey into deer hunting as a teenager shaped his belief that no kid should be told “no” when they want to head into the woods, whether they're chasing whitetails, calling spring turkeys, or dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime moose hunt. We also dig into the political side of conservation, why it takes bipartisan work, why the right language matters, and how Maine’s ongoing fight for a constitutional right to hunt and fish could set the tone for other states. Travis Thompson returns to share how Florida’s experience informs Maine’s strategy, and why every hunter, angler, and aspiring outdoorsman should pay attention. Whether you care about waterfowl hunting access, fair chase laws, or protecting traditional fishing opportunities from fly-fishing-only restrictions, this is a rare insider look at how real conservation work gets done. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Jared Bornstein’s work: https://lobbymaine.com Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

A groundbreaking Everglades conservation mission reveals what it really takes to rebuild a wild deer population. Kenia heads deep into the Florida Everglades to follow one of the most ambitious wildlife restoration efforts happening anywhere in the country: the Everglades Deer Reintroduction Project. Host Kenia sits down with Mike Elfenbein of the Isaac Walton League’s Cypress Chapter to break down how a massive landscape, once home to thriving white-tailed deer herds, lost nearly all of its deer over the last two decades, and what it takes to put them back. Listeners will get an insider look at the real fieldwork behind the project, including darting wild whitetails, conducting genetic testing, fitting GPS tracking collars, and relocating healthy deer into 45,000 acres of restored habitat. Mike explains how high water levels, predation from Florida panthers and pythons, and decades of water-management changes reshaped the ecosystem, and why science-driven collaboration with tribes, ranchers, hunters, and conservationists is key to recovering the species. From wildlife biology and land management to the emotional moments of releasing deer back into historic habitat, this conversation blends conservation storytelling, whitetail behavior insights, and the kind of practical big-picture learning that resonates with lifelong hunters, aspiring outdoorsmen, and anyone who cares about wild places. Follow along as Kenia and Mike unpack what today’s work means for the future of whitetail hunting, Everglades conservation, and species restoration projects across America. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Mike Elfenbein’s work: https://wildlifeflorida.org/our-people/mike-elfenbein/  Follow Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=%2Fmike_2lf%2F&source=omni_redirect&hl=en  Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

A seasoned Ohio crappie angler shares the secrets, stories, and strategies that keep America’s fishing heritage alive. In this episode of Hunt Fish Freedom, we sit down with longtime Ohio angler and national crappie tournament champion Jason Koesters for a deep-dive into the stories, strategies, and outdoor traditions that shaped his life on the water. If you love crappie fishing, ice fishing, or passing those passions down to the next generation, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Jason walks us through his early days bobber-fishing with his dad and grandpa on Grand Lake St. Marys, the competitive years that took him across the Midwest, and the unforgettable season that landed him a national title and a brand-new boat. He also breaks down how everyday anglers can improve their success—whether in shallow-water crappie bites, tournament-style technique, or winter ice fishing tactics. You’ll hear how he introduces kids to fishing the right way, why small lakes across Ohio remain overlooked fisheries, and what it takes to stay rooted in the outdoors while raising a family. From simple jig-and-waxworm setups to the mindset behind consistent tournament performance, this episode blends practical fishing strategy with a genuine love of America’s outdoor traditions. Follow the show for more weekly hunting and fishing conversations. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Jason Koesters’ work: https://www.wired2fish.com/news/koesters-and-hengstler-win-2019-crappie-usa-classic-on-old-hickory  Follow Jason Koesters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koesters20fishing/  Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

A fight for hunting freedom is unfolding in Ohio, and every outdoorsman has a stake in the outcome. Across the country, hunting and fishing face growing political pressure and Ohio may be the next battleground. In this episode, we sit down with State Representative Phil Plummer for a candid, insider conversation on why protecting the right to hunt and fish matters now more than ever. From waterfowl hunting access to deer herd management, Rep. Plummer breaks down the real-world consequences when anti-hunting ballot initiatives gain traction, drawing lessons from Oregon, Florida, and other states where outdoorsmen had to mobilize fast. Listeners will hear firsthand how proposed legislation could impact everything from whitetail deer hunting to food security, wildlife conservation funding, and the future of mentorship programs that get kids on the water for the first time. Rep. Plummer also touches on the chronic wasting diseases and EHD outbreaks affecting Ohio’s deer herd—and why population management remains essential to long-term conservation. Whether you’re obsessed with whitetail bucks, spend spring chasing gobblers, or live for weekend bass fishing trips, this conversation underscores why hunters and anglers must stay engaged, informed, and united. The traditions passed from grandparents to grandkids depend on it. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Representative Plummer’s work in Ohio: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/phil-plummer Follow Phil Plummer’s Campaign: https://www.plummerforohio.com Follow Phil Plummer on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlummerforOhio/ Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

Country star Lucas Hoge shares how his love for hunting and fishing shaped his music and mission. Country artist and Hoge Wild TV host Lucas Hoge joins Hunt. Fish. Freedom. to share his remarkable journey from small-town Nebraska farm life to a career at the crossroads of music, conservation, and the outdoors. Growing up running traplines and upland bird hunting, Lucas learned early that time spent outside builds more than skill, it builds character. Lucas opens up to Kenia about how hunting and fishing continue to inspire his songwriting, including hits like Nowhere (the official IOTR theme song!) and his new record Book About Me. He shares the moment that sparked his outdoor TV show, Hoge Wild—now entering its seventh season on the Sportsman’s Channel—and how it’s become a platform for storytelling, education, and giving back through his Hoge Wild Heroes Foundation. From elk hunts in Colorado to fishing floatplanes in Alaska, Lucas reveals how outdoor adventure and country music can work hand in hand to connect people to the land, to each other, and to something bigger than themselves. Whether you’re an avid hunter or just dream of the next season in the field, this episode will inspire you to chase your passions and protect the wild places that make them possible. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out Lucas Hoge’s work: https://www.lucashoge.com Follow Lucas on Instagram: lucashoge Follow Lucas on Facebook: lucashoge Follow Lucas on Spotify: 0hj3TrC0GoZKDTyxZo88pP  Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

A grueling climb, scorching heat, and one perfect shot, this is the bighorn sheep hunt of a lifetime. When Kenia drew a coveted Idaho bighorn sheep tag, she knew it would test every ounce of grit she had. But nothing could have prepared her for the raw beauty and brutal terrain of Hell’s Canyon. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., Kenia sits down with cohost Luke Hilgemann to relive her once-in-a-lifetime sheep hunt through Idaho’s Unit 11, where towering cliffs meet the Snake River and every step feels earned. From 105-degree heat and steep climbs to 12-mile treks across shale slopes, Kenia recounts how persistence, faith, and solid mountain gear finally led to a perfect Boone and Crockett ram, a world-class sheep scoring just shy of 190. Along the way, she shares lessons learned from elite guides, how to mentally push through grueling mountain hunts, and why conservation is at the heart of every ethical pursuit. Whether you dream of chasing Rocky Mountain bighorns or simply love hearing true outdoor grit stories, this episode captures what it means to hunt hard, give thanks, and protect wild places for the next generation. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

The fight for hunting and fishing rights has moved to the courtroom — and outdoorsmen are taking a stand. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., host Kenia Link sits down with Luke Hilgemann and Travis Thompson to unpack one of the most important — and least understood — battles in modern conservation: litigation. From the bear hunts in Florida to the right-to-fish fight in Maine, this episode dives deep into how hunters and anglers are defending their outdoor heritage through the legal system. You’ll hear how anti-hunting groups are using lawsuits to block science-based wildlife management — and how the International Order of T. Roosevelt (IOTR) is fighting back. Luke and Travis break down why constitutional protections for hunting and fishing matter, what “right to harvest” really means, and why showing up — from commission meetings to courtrooms — is critical to protecting waterfowl hunting, whitetail seasons, and sustainable fisheries for generations to come. Whether you chase ducks in flooded timber, glass for elk in the Rockies, or wet a line for smallmouth bass, this episode delivers a grounded look at the legal frontlines of conservation — and what it takes to keep our outdoor freedoms alive. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

What happens when hunters and anglers take a stand to protect their rights—and win big? In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., host Kenia Link sits down with Representative Tim Barhorst of Ohio to talk about what’s at stake for hunters and anglers across the country. From the docks of Grand Lake St. Marys to deer camp traditions across the Midwest, they explore how outdoor heritage connects generations—and why protecting the right to hunt and fish isn’t just policy, it’s personal. Barhorst shares how hunting and fishing keep rural communities grounded, strengthen families, and sustain local economies through food security and recreation. Kenia digs into the growing movement to enshrine these rights in every state constitution—an effort already successful in 24 states, with Ohio next in line. You’ll hear how the North American Conservation Model, grassroots advocacy, and bipartisan cooperation are shaping the future of wildlife management and outdoor freedom. If you care about conservation, faith, family, and the freedom to fill your freezer the old-fashioned way, this is a must-listen conversation straight from the heart of Ohio. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

What if your right to hunt and fish could disappear overnight? Here’s how Ohio plans to stop it. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., host Kenyon Link sits down with Ohio State Senator Steve Huffman to talk about one of the most important conservation battles happening right now—the effort to make hunting and fishing a constitutional right in Ohio. From the fight to restore bear hunting in Florida to the ongoing pushback from radical environmental groups, this conversation unpacks why protecting access to the outdoors is no longer guaranteed. Senator Huffman shares firsthand insight on how constitutional protection would safeguard future generations of hunters and anglers—preserving everything from deer hunting and waterfowl management to the freedom to cast a line on Lake Erie. You’ll also hear about Ohio’s rich outdoor traditions, how youth hunting seasons help teach firearm safety and conservation ethics, and what everyday sportsmen can do to protect the heritage they love. Whether you’re a lifelong hunter or a weekend fisherman, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the freedom to pursue wild places. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

What happens when anti-hunting activists try to criminalize catching a fish or harvesting a deer? This time on Hunt. Fish. Freedom., host Kenia Link sits down with Luke Hilgemann, CEO of the International Order of T. Roosevelt (IOTR), to discuss one of the most critical battles facing outdoorsmen today—the fight to protect the constitutional right to hunt and fish. From the wolf population crisis in Wisconsin to the shocking ballot initiatives in Oregon that could make fishing illegal, this conversation digs deep into the threats to America’s outdoor traditions. Luke shares how his personal lawsuit against the Wisconsin DNR set a precedent for defending hunting rights and how that same framework is being used to push constitutional protection efforts in Ohio, Florida, and beyond. Listeners will learn how legislative advocacy, grassroots organizing, and hunter-led conservation can safeguard our way of life for future generations. Whether you’re passionate about waterfowl hunting, big game management, or bass fishing, this episode will remind you why standing in the arena matters. Join the movement to ensure our hunting and fishing heritage is protected—for your kids, and theirs. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

The battle to protect hunting and fishing traditions in Ohio is heating up, and you’re part of it. In this powerful episode, leaders from the International Order of T. Roosevelt (IOTR) join Ohio legislators and grassroots advocates to discuss the fight to secure a constitutional right to hunt and fish in Ohio. What starts as a local gathering over cold beer and wild game turns into an inspiring call to protect our outdoor heritage and ensure future generations can enjoy the woods and waters that define America’s sporting life. You’ll hear how IOTR helped pass similar measures in states like Florida and how that model is now moving north. The conversation dives deep into why protecting hunting and fishing rights isn’t just political—it’s about freedom, conservation, and legacy. From youth fishing clubs to bipartisan legislative action, this episode explores how ordinary sportsmen can become part of a movement that safeguards access, conservation funding, and the traditions that built our outdoor communities. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “It’s not the critic who counts.” This episode challenges every outdoorsman and woman to step into the arena and stand for the future of our wild places. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

What happens when a lifelong hunter takes his passion for the outdoors into the Statehouse? In this episode, Ohio State Representative Ty Matthews joins the crew to talk about hunting, conservation, and the fight to protect Ohio’s outdoor traditions. A lifelong outdoorsman raised in Finley, Ty shares how growing up in the woods with his father shaped his views on responsibility, conservation, and the value of passing on those lessons to the next generation. Listeners will hear why Matthews believes hunters are the true environmental stewards—those who understand wildlife management, protect deer and waterfowl populations, and keep public access to land alive. From his wife tagging a Hardin County buck while he was campaigning, to the First Shot Program that introduces young hunters to the field, this conversation dives deep into the connection between hunting heritage and community. Whether you chase whitetails, cast for bass on Lake Erie, or just appreciate the ethics behind responsible hunting, this episode offers a candid, grounded look at why protecting hunting rights matters more than ever. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

Florida’s black bear hunt is back—discover what this means for conservation, hunters, and future generations. The Florida black bear is one of the great conservation success stories of modern wildlife management. Once reduced to only a few hundred animals, today the population exceeds 4,000—and for the first time in a decade, the hunt has officially returned. In this episode of Hunt Fish Freedom, host Kenya Link sits down with Travis Thompson of All Florida to break down this landmark decision and why it matters for hunters across the country. From the history of Florida’s black bear population to the science behind sustainable harvests, Travis explains how conservation, regulation, and hunter participation came together to make this hunt possible. You’ll hear about the 187 tags available, the role of hunting dogs, how baiting is being used to ensure selective harvest, and why this decision sets an example for other states. Beyond bear hunting, this conversation dives into the bigger picture: the North American Model of Conservation, the importance of science-based management, and what it means for the future of hunting and fishing. Whether you’re passionate about waterfowl hunting, chasing elk out West, or fine-tuning your bass fishing strategies, this episode connects the dots between conservation victories in Florida and the outdoor heritage we all fight to protect. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

Discover how a Wisconsin family turned passion for hunting into advocacy, tradition, and generational outdoor legacy. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., host Kenia sits down with Luke and Kaleb Hilgemann to share a powerful family story about hunting, fishing, and preserving outdoor traditions in Wisconsin. From tracking deer at age three to helping change state hunting laws, Kaleb’s journey shows how the next generation is carrying forward the hunting lifestyle. Luke reflects on raising his son to love the outdoors, the pride of harvesting whitetail deer on their family farm, and the responsibility of passing on skills like food plots, bow practice, and ethical shot preparation. Kaleb shares his love of hunting whitetail deer, fishing local waters, mentoring younger hunters, and preparing wild game meals for family and friends. Together, they discuss: Youth hunting laws in Wisconsin and how the Hilgemanns helped eliminate the minimum age requirement. Deer camp traditions that build camaraderie across generations of hunters. Food plots and bow season prep as the Hilgemanns gear up for another season. Wild game cooking and the importance of field-to-table traditions in hunting culture. Advocating for the constitutional right to hunt and fish, and why it matters for the future of outdoorsmen and women. Whether you’re passionate about whitetail deer hunting, outdoor family traditions, or protecting the right to hunt and fish, this episode will inspire you to carry forward the legacy of conservation and advocacy. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

A once-in-a-lifetime Idaho bighorn sheep hunt brings family, tradition, and conservation together. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom, host Kenia shares the excitement of drawing one of Idaho’s rarest bighorn sheep tags—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hunt in the rugged Rocky Mountains.  Joined by her father, this hunt is more than just pursuing wild game—it’s about family tradition, conservation, and carrying forward a deep connection to the outdoors. Kenia discusses the preparation for backcountry hunting in grueling heat, the gear and rifles she’ll rely on, and how her past experiences—from Dall sheep hunting in Alaska to black bear and whitetail in Wisconsin—have shaped her as a hunter. She also shares the importance of family mentorship, recounting how her dad and siblings built a lifestyle centered around hunting, fishing, and passing along those traditions. The episode also looks ahead to the International Order of T. Roosevelt’s upcoming Ohio tour, where the team will work to protect the constitutional right to hunt and fish. With hunting seasons around the corner, it’s a critical reminder of why sportsmen and women must stand together to defend outdoor heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain hunter or a whitetail weekend warrior, this conversation delivers inspiration, insights, and a powerful reminder of why the right to hunt and fish matters. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr

Discover how a farm kid turned musician became one of the world’s most accomplished big game hunters. In this episode of Hunt. Fish. Freedom., IOTR’s own Kenia Link sits down with J. Alain Smith — best-selling author, award-winning international big game hunter, conservationist, and musician—to explore a lifetime devoted to the outdoors. From his early days duck hunting in Washington State to chasing Sitka blacktail in Kodiak, Alaska, and pursuing Africa’s Big Five, J. Alain shares the adventures, mentors, and moments that shaped his hunting journey. The conversation dives deep into why hunting and fishing are vital to global conservation, how sportsmen fund wildlife protection, and why voting and advocacy are crucial for preserving our outdoor heritage. You’ll hear stories from remote mountains and African plains, plus practical advice for mentoring new hunters and anglers. Whether you’re a waterfowler, big game hunter, or avid fisherman, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and inspiration to protect the future of our outdoor traditions. Connect with J Alain Smith & Rugged Expeditions J Alain Smith’s Website Site: https://jalainsmith.com J Alain Smith’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j_alain_smith/  J Alain Smith’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jalain.smith  Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr