In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Josh Kirchner The Dialed In Hunter to unpack his journey from roofing to full-time hunting. What began as a personal blog turned into a full-blown career in writing, filmmaking, and inspiring new hunters.

Josh shares insights from solo bear hunts, writing his books (Becoming a Bowhunter, Becoming a Backpack Hunter), and learning to embrace the mental grind of the backcountry. They talk gear, mindset, failure, and why reps in the field matter more than the latest bow tech.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dialedinhunter/

Website: https://dialedinhunter.com/

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hunt.stealh

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Key Takeaways:

• Start Before You’re Ready - Josh didn’t plan on becoming a full-time hunter or writer it all started with a simple blog documenting his learning curve. Taking action opened unexpected doors.
• Reps in the Field Matter More Than Gear - The best way to get better at hunting isn’t expensive equipment... it’s time in the field, learning through failure, and stacking real-world experience.
• Mental Toughness is the Real Separator - Hunts are won and lost in the mind. Josh emphasizes that staying mentally strong through discomfort, setbacks, and long dry spells is essential.
• You Can’t Learn Without Taking Risks - Josh admits he used to talk himself out of stalks. Overcoming fear of failure was a game-changer every stalk, even the failed ones, builds experience.
• Trust the Process - Whether you're glassing for bears or chasing elk, patience and consistency pay off. Even when results are slow, stick to your game plan.
• Storytelling Is a Tool for Legacy - From blogging to filmmaking, Josh uses storytelling to inspire and educate new hunters. In a world with short attention spans, good stories still connect.
• The Most Underrated Gear? Socks. - Forget the gear hype, Josh says quality socks and boots are critical. Foot comfort can make or break your hunt.

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