Summary:
In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with fitness coach Chandler Marchman to explore how hunting and fitness intersect to make us stronger—in the woods, in the field, and in life. We talk kettlebell training, mobility, and mental toughness, and how these tools help hunters move better, stay patient, and perform at their best. Chandler shares his journey from fitness to hunting, practical tips for building consistency, and lessons on persistence and discipline that translate from the gym to the outdoors. This conversation isn’t just about hunting or working out—it’s about how showing up every day can improve your life.
Takeaways:
• Kettlebell training enhances hunting performance.
• Mobility and movement prep are critical in the field.
• Consistent fitness routines build discipline and mental toughness.
• Persistence and patience are essential for both hunting and life.
• Personal hunting stories illustrate the value of presence and focus.
https://www.youtube.com/@CoachMANdler
This week on the InCamp Whitetail Brief, I’m breaking down what’s been one of the trickiest Pennsylvania whitetail seasons I’ve seen in a while. Deer movement hasn’t followed the usual patterns, scrapes are showing up in odd places, and the scouting game has felt off. I talk through what I’ve been seeing in the woods, how I’ve had to make in-season adjustments, and why every hunting area seems to go through cycles.
From busted hunts to unexpected success, this one’s about learning to pivot, get creative, and make the most of what the woods are giving you right now. Whether you’re in a rut (pun intended) or trying to dial in late-season strategies, this episode’s full of takeaways that’ll help you stay adaptable and keep the hunt fun.
Takeaways:
• Every hunting spot runs in cycles—don’t panic, adapt.
• Scrape activity tells a bigger story than just buck sign.
• Deer movement is shifting—stay flexible and scout smart.
• Sometimes you’ve gotta get creative and enjoy the ride.
This week on InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Victoria Friedges to talk hunting, archery, fishing, and everything that comes with living an outdoor lifestyle. We get into how family and community shape who we are as hunters, how tech and social media fit into the mix, and why it’s so important to share your story and keep learning.
Victoria’s done a little bit of everything — from running a trapline with her dad to managing hunting land and jumping into archery — and she’s honest about the challenges and growth that come with it. We talk about women finding their place in the outdoor world, staying versatile, and being the example you want others to follow when it comes to conservation and respect for the hunt.
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Takeaways
• Family and community fuel a lifelong love for hunting and fishing.
• Learning new things — like picking up archery — builds confidence and keeps it fun.
• Managing land and understanding deer behavior is all about patience and strategy.
• Social media can connect us, but responsibility matters.
• Women in the outdoors are pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation.
• Growth in hunting isn’t just about success — it’s about learning from the journey.
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/she-goes-beyond/id1790348733
https://www.youtube.com/@shegoesbeyond
https://www.instagram.com/shegoesbeyondthe8/?hl=en
In this week’s Whitetail Brief I catch up with Dan Johnson and dig into the heart of rut hunting — that magical window when bucks are chasing and the woods turn electric. We talk about embracing the “rutcation” mindset: yes, you’re working a job, you’ve got family responsibilities, but this is your chance to lean into the rut and make the most of it. We share stories from the field, balancing family and time in the stand, and getting sharp on deer behaviour. The big message: when bucks are ready to breed and does aren’t quite there yet, that’s prime real estate. Weather shifts matter. Doesn’t matter how many rubs and scrapes you’ve got if the does aren’t moving. We shift focus to staging areas near doe bedding, and caution against over-calling — subtlety wins. Plus, we talk kids in the woods and using trail-camera data like gold. If you’re chasing whitetails during the rut, this one’s for you.
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Take-Aways:
• “Rutcation” is your shot at hunting during the rut even with work/family.
• Balance family + hunting = better time in the woods, less guilt.
• Study deer behaviour — that’s your edge.
• Peak window: bucks ready, does not yet.
• Weather changes = deer movement changes.
• Tracking does > obsessing over rubs and scrapes.
• Hunt where does are bedding and staging.
• Don’t over-call — subtlety gets results.
• Bring the kids — rut hunts can be memorable for everyone.
• Use trail-camera intel to plan hunts smart
Johnny Stewart joins me to break down what decades of studying whitetails have taught him. We get into scouting smart, reading deer behavior, and how timing and woodsmanship come together during the pre-rut. Johnny shares his Ohio buck story and how staying curious and observant keeps him finding success year after year. We also talk about the value of mentoring new hunters and passing on knowledge the right way — by being in the woods and learning through experience.
Takeaways
• Real-time scouting and observation beat overreliance on cameras.
• Ground scent isn’t always the deal breaker hunters think it is.
• The pre-rut window rewards patience and smart woodsmanship.
• Passing on knowledge matters — mentoring keeps hunting strong.
Summary:
In this Whitetail Brief, I’m joined by Howie Miller to talk about what’s really happening in the deer woods as October winds down. We dig into how weather, food sources, and hunting pressure are shaping deer movement right now. We also get into Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania — how it’s changed pressure — and touch on moon phases and how they might influence deer activity.
It’s one of those weeks where observation, patience, and going back to fundamentals can make all the difference.
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Takeaways:
• Adapt to what deer and conditions are showing you right now.
• Weather changes and pressure are the biggest behavior shifters.
• Scouting smart — not just often — matters most.
• Acorns and green, stemmy browse are key food sources now.
• Sunday hunting is changing how and when deer move.
• Moon phases can line up with activity — but don’t overthink it.
• Observation sits are underrated.
• Stick to fundamentals — sign, food, wind, pressure.
• Pressure moves deer fast, especially late October.
• Flexibility kills.
Summary:
In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, Jared Yalsovec joins me to talk whitetails, pressure, and the kind of in-season scouting that actually produces. We get into how observation sits shape decision-making, how deer respond when the woods start filling up, and what it takes to stay mentally sharp through the grind. Jared shares what he’s learned from years of hunting and how time with family and stepping back can sometimes move you forward. We wrap it up talking gear, scrape week, and a few hunting stories that remind us why we keep coming back.
Takeaways:
• In-season scouting keeps Jared consistently on deer.
• Observation sits reveal real-time deer behavior.
• Hunting pressure changes everything—adapt or lose ground.
• The right gear and mobility make the difference.
• Mental resets matter more than most admit.
• Scrape week is the window every serious whitetail hunter watches.
In this episode of Whitetail Brief, I was joined live in person with Jared Hulse. Jared is a versatile hunter out of PA. Fortunately, for me, he is close by. Jared has found a lot of success hunting scrapes at this time of year, and he is no stranger to in-season deer scouting to find them. Jared has gone 3 for 3 during the time that scrapes matter most, and his run and gun mobile style of hunting can't be beat!
Summary:
In this episode of InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Jace Bauserman and his son Hunter to talk all things hunting, mentorship, and family traditions in the outdoors. We dive into the stories that shaped their elk hunting seasons, Jace's Wyoming whitetail hunt, a few antelope narratives, and the lessons learned along the way. This conversation is about more than filling tags — it’s about hard work, passing on traditions, and the bond between a father and son who share a deep love for the hunt.
Takeaways:
• Hunting builds family bonds and lifelong memories.
• Mentorship is key to keeping the tradition alive.
• Preparation, faith, and perseverance make the hunt meaningful.
• The best lessons come from both the wins and the misses.
In this episode of InCamp: Whitetail Brief, our guest is a favorite of all whitetail hunters. Tony J Peterson, writer and co-host of the Wired to Hunt Podcast, joined me in the studio to help you work out your whitetail hunting plans for mid-October. AKA the dreaded October lull. Tony's wisdom in the deer hunting space is unmatched. He has helped so many hunters find the creativity to find their own way to success in the field, including my own. Take what you will from this episode, but I'm sure you're going to love every minute.
Summary:
On this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Josh Ruiter of Trinity Bretons and Redemption Bird Dogs to dive into the world of bird dogs, upland hunting, and dog training. Josh has years of experience working with French Brittanys—a breed known for their heart, drive, and big personalities in the field.
We cover everything from training techniques and correction in training to how a dog’s personality and natural instincts shape their success. Josh shares his philosophy on handling challenges, building a bond with your dog, and tailoring training methods to fit each dog’s unique style. We also get into upland hunting strategies, the difference between hunting public and private land, and a few of Josh’s most memorable hunts—including the time his dog Moose pulled off a Thanksgiving turkey retrieve.
If you’re into bird dogs, upland hunting stories, and practical training advice, this one’s for you.
Takeaways:
• French Brittanys stand out for their heart and personality.
• Dog training must match the dog’s instincts and style.
• Handle correction in training with care to avoid setbacks.
• Great upland hunting strategies bring out the best in your dog.
• The strongest hunts happen when you trust the bond with your bird dog.
https://www.instagram.com/redemptionbirddogs/
Summary:
On this episode of InCamp Whitetail Brief, I sit down with my good friend Steve Notebaert to talk early-season strategy on heavily pressured Pennsylvania ground. Steve shares how scrapes are his go-to setup, how he adjusts when acorns are scarce, and what he’s learned since tagging his first archery buck last season. We cover access and exit challenges, the value of in-season scouting, and how being decisive yet flexible can make or break a hunt. Plus, we relive a few stories from turkey season and the benefits of building a public land hunting network.
Summary:
On this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Adam Miller to talk hunting, bowhunting, and the traditions that keep us coming back to the woods. Adam and I reconnect after a couple of years to dive into what it really means to be a bowhunter—not just chasing deer, but living a lifestyle built around community, mentorship, and time outdoors.
We cover everything from family hunting traditions and the nostalgia that fuels our passion, to planning out-of-state hunts, scouting terrain, and making the shift from tree stands to saddles. Adam shares some of his best hunting stories from recent seasons, and we get into the importance of tracking and recovering deer, adapting strategies, and remembering that the hunt is about more than the kill—it’s about the people you share it with.
Whether it’s elk country, the whitetail woods, or hunting public land close to home, this conversation is packed with stories, strategies, and reminders of why we hunt in the first place.
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Takeaways
• Hunting is about community, mentorship, and shared experiences.
• Bowhunting is more than chasing deer—it’s about intimacy with nature.
• Planning, scouting, and adapting are keys to successful hunts.
• Nostalgia and family traditions keep hunting culture alive.
• Out-of-state hunts bring camaraderie and adventure.
• The hunt is about the journey, not just the harvest.
https://www.instagram.com/bowhunterchronicles_podcast/?hl=en
Summary:
In this conversation, Phil Mellinger shares his experiences as a new hunter, discussing his growth, challenges, and preparations for the upcoming archery season.
The discussion covers the importance of practice, scouting for deer, and learning from past encounters.
Phil emphasizes the significance of shooting from elevated positions and understanding deer behavior to improve hunting success. The conversation concludes with a focus on the excitement of hunting and the anticipation of future experiences in the woods.
Summary:
In this episode of InCamp, Aaron Hepler sits down with Joel Burham, founder of Whitetail Fit, to talk mule deer hunting in Utah, the importance of summer scouting, and the lifestyle that comes with living the hunting life. Joel shares how outdoor media shaped his passion, how Whitetail Fit grew from fitness and hunting roots, and why understanding deer behavior is crucial for success.
They dive into the challenges of elk hunting, the excitement of the whitetail rut, and strategies like glassing and mobile hunting that can make or break a hunt. Joel and Aaron also reflect on faith, camp camaraderie, and the lessons learned in the outdoors, showing that hunting isn’t just about filling tags—it’s about the memories, the community, and the deeper connections built along the way.
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Takeaways
• Summer scouting sets the stage for successful hunts.
• Whitetail Fit grew from passion into a lifestyle brand.
• Understanding deer behavior is key to hunting success.
• Camp atmosphere and camaraderie elevate the experience.
• The rut remains the most exciting time for whitetail hunting.
• Technical gear vs. traditional camo is still up for debate.
• Faith and hunting often go hand-in-hand, shaping perspective.
https://www.youtube.com/c/WhitetailFit
Summary:
Joining me on InCamp: Whitetail Brief today is Mason Springer.
Mason is a well-rounded competitive archer who loves to spend time in the whitetail woods. You'll get to hear his strategy for proficiency as a target archer as well as how his technique is different for hunting. Mason is 15 years old, and he is an ace with a bow in his hand. We could all learn a thing or two from him in the realm of archery.
Summary
In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Justin Eberly to talk about hunting big game and chasing opportunities across the country. We cover everything from aoudad sheep hunts to deer, elk, bears, ducks, and turkeys—and how public land plays into those experiences. Justin shares what he’s learned about scouting fresh sign, tracking deer movement, and adjusting when the conditions change. We get into planning out-of-state hunts, picking the right outfitter, and how land management and weather patterns impact success. More than that, we talk about what hunting really gives us—stories, memories, camaraderie, and the balance between family life and time in the woods.
Takeaways:
• Fresh sign tells the truth—look for scrapes with good licking branches and follow direct rub lines.
• Patience, persistence, and adapting are bigger factors than luck.
• A good outfitter makes or breaks a guided hunt.
• Weather and habitat management shape how wildlife moves.
• Hunting is about more than filling tags—it’s about the people, memories, and the lifestyle
Summary:
In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, Aaron Hepler sits down with bowhunter Ben Koch to dig into the lessons he’s learned through years of hunting whitetails. Ben shares how archery practice shapes his confidence in the stand, the role of food sources in deer movement, and why paying attention to wind and thermals is critical for success. From stand placement to observing deer behavior with binoculars, Ben highlights strategies every hunter can use to improve their time in the woods.
Key Takeaways
Consistent archery practice builds confidence in the shot process.
Deer behavior and food sources should guide stand placement.
Wind and thermals often make or break a hunt.
Time in the stand and learning from mistakes are key to growth.
In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, host Aaron Hepler welcomes Kevin Leach, co-founder of Latitude Outdoors, to share his journey in the outdoor industry and the rise of saddle hunting. From his early days fishing with family to building a company that’s shaping the way hunters approach the woods, Kevin highlights how memorable outdoor experiences fuel passion and community.
The discussion covers the innovation behind Latitude gear, the role of user feedback in product development, and why comfort and versatility are critical in the saddle hunting experience. Kevin also dives into the techniques of shooting from a saddle and gives a look ahead at new product releases designed to make hunting simpler and more effective.
Whether you’re a lifelong hunter or just starting your outdoor journey, this conversation blends hunting stories, outdoor adventures, and gear innovation that will resonate with anyone who loves time in the wild.
Explore Latitude Outdoors gear: https://latitudeoutdoors.com
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Key Takeaways
• Saddle hunting is efficient, comfortable, and versatile.
• Innovation at Latitude is driven by real hunters and their feedback.
• Fishing often sparks a lifelong passion for hunting.
• Outdoor memories shape the way we connect with the hunt.
• The hunting community thrives on simplicity and accessibility.
In this episode of the Whitetail Brief, I sit down with Rich Yoder to talk whitetail hunting strategies that work in the early season and into late October. We cover how food sources shape deer movement, why doe hunting early can set up success for the rest of the season, and hunting tips that help you stay adaptable as conditions change. From buck hunting setups to practical hunting techniques, this conversation is about more than just filling tags—it’s about the full hunting experience.