Carson Keys explained his role as Safari Club International’s Chapter Services Director and his “coach-player” leadership style. He oversees 125 to 130 SCI chapters across the United States. His team supports these chapters with structure, resources, and clear strategic guidance. Carson emphasized that effective chapter management strengthens SCI’s mission and expands its national reach.

He detailed the benefits of local SCI chapters and their value to their communities. Carson explained that the chapter system aims to unite local outdoorsmen for a common goal. That goal promotes hunter conservation and deeper involvement in local community projects. He described the chapter revenue model and how funds support education, conservation, and advocacy efforts.

Carson also discussed key fundraising strategies used by SCI chapters. These include banquets, raffles, hunter events, and other community activities. He stressed that strong fundraising builds local engagement and chapter growth. Carson encouraged new members to explore nearby chapters through the SCI website.

He highlighted SCI’s strong advocacy mission on state and federal levels. Carson described their presence in Washington D.C. and their defense of hunting rights. He emphasized the value of SCI membership and its many available resources. Carson noted that active members help protect hunting traditions for future generations.

http://SafariClub.org

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Tymeson, SCI’s Vice President of Government Affairs, described SCI’s advocacy work across six major areas. These include federal affairs, state affairs, international advocacy, the Hunter Information Service, guide and outfitter relations, and legal support. He explained that SCI works closely with lawmakers to defend hunters and protect outdoor traditions. Tymeson also shared his background in wildlife law and conservation policy.

Tymeson detailed SCI’s ongoing efforts to protect hunters’ rights and ensure long-term hunting access. He emphasized SCI’s commitment to sustainable use conservation rather than preservation-only approaches. He highlighted issues involving predator management, endangered species conflicts, and increasing ammunition restrictions. SCI continues to fight these challenges to preserve hunting opportunities nationwide.

During the interview, Tymeson addressed rising concerns affecting hunters and outdoorsmen. He explained how species recovery often reduces hunting access without proper scientific review. He also noted that SCI advocates for balanced wildlife management policies that support conservation and hunting heritage. SCI works to ensure hunters remain active partners in conservation efforts.

Tymeson discussed SCI’s support for a clean continuing resolution to keep the government open. This ensured federal lands stayed accessible for hunters, including a terminally ill child’s final hunt. He also addressed visa delays affecting the annual SCI convention. Tymeson criticized a harmful provision in the Big Beautiful Bill that limited public land sales without public input. SCI continues defending public land access and hunters’ freedoms.

http://SafariClub.org

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Avena interviewed Justin Morrissey from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to discuss the +One Mentorship Initiative. The program encourages hunting mentorship and shooting sports participation through partnerships with groups like the National Deer Association and Pheasants Forever. Originally built around pledges, the +One Initiative now focuses on measurable recruitment and mentorship to expand hunting participation and firearm safety education.

Through +One, the NSSF created a national mentorship network that connects experienced hunters with newcomers. Morrissey highlighted scalable programs like Learn to Hunt, which teach outdoor skills and firearms safety in a welcoming, inclusive environment. He emphasized the importance of mentors who can adapt, communicate, and support new hunters with patience and understanding. The NSSF plans to launch a national mentor recruitment campaign to expand these efforts even further.

Today, the +One Initiative includes over 62,000 mentors who reach more than half a million new participants each year. These mentors include hunting instructors, shooting coaches, and first responders who promote firearm safety and outdoor ethics. Morrissey explained that the partnership model is far more scalable and impactful than traditional awareness pledges.

The +One Mentorship Initiative is helping preserve America’s outdoor heritage through education, inclusion, and mentorship. By teaching new generations about hunting, conservation, and firearm responsibility, NSSF and Justin Morrissey are ensuring the future of our hunting and shooting sports traditions.

http://NSSF.org/plusone

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

#NSSF #+One #PlusOne #Mentorship #HuntingMentors #ShootingSports

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent interview, Aaron Smith from SCI Record Books discussed how the program honors hunters and preserves ethical hunting traditions. The SCI Record Book is more than a list — it’s a global recognition of dedication, skill, and conservation. Each entry celebrates the hunter’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of wildlife.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, Chris Avena sat down with Everett Headley, Safari Club International’s Guide and Outfitter Liaison. The discussion focused on the importance of choosing the right guide and outfitter, whether hunting in North America or abroad. Everett shared valuable insight on navigating complex hunting logistics and the benefits of working with trusted, SCI-vetted professionals.

Everett explained how the North American hunting tag draw system can impact planning for big game hunts. Understanding state regulations and draw odds helps hunters secure the right tags and avoid costly mistakes. He also highlighted how SCI resources can simplify the process for both new and experienced hunters.

The conversation explored the affordability and logistics of international hunting, including permits, travel with firearms, and trophy import/export regulations. Everett offered practical advice for handling paperwork and ensuring a smooth experience from home to the hunting destination. His guidance helps hunters avoid delays while staying compliant with international laws.

Everett also emphasized the importance of attending the SCI Convention, where hunters can meet outfitters in person and build trusted relationships. From verifying credentials to learning about destinations firsthand, face-to-face connections make a difference. As Everett put it, “Shake their hand, look them in the eye, and know who you’re hunting with.”

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Roberts, founder of MNR Custom Rifles, shared his meticulous process for crafting bespoke firearms. Each rifle receives countless hours of detailed attention, from hand-selected materials to precise finishing work. Due to the level of craftsmanship required, Matt produces only about ten rifles annually, ensuring every firearm meets his exacting standards.

#customrifles #africansafari #dangerousgame #MNRCustom #Biggamerifle #safari #Big5

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the American Outdoor News

Raymie also highlighted the Saturday night event at the historic Ryman

In addition, Raymie announced several exciting

Looking ahead, Raymie teased even more to come

http://SafariClub.org

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

#SCI #Safariclubinternational #SCIEntertainment #conservation #HunterAdvocasy #SCIConvention

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My interview with Joe Bartozzi from Project ChildSafe focused on promoting responsible gun ownership and secure firearm storage. Project ChildSafe is a nationwide program that provides free educational resources and firearm safety kits. The program partners with local law enforcement to distribute gun locks and safety information across communities in the United States. Its mission is to reduce firearm accidents, misuse, and theft through awareness and secure storage.

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent interview, Jason St. Michael of Safari Club International discussed the organization’s mission and global structure. SCI supports ethical hunting, wildlife protection, and conservation efforts through 164 chapters and 50,000 members worldwide. Jason highlighted the importance of hunters working together to secure the future of wildlife and outdoor traditions.

Jason explained the challenges hunters face, including legislative restrictions and widespread misinformation. He described SCI’s work on conservation projects and youth education programs. The organization also focuses on outreach to non-hunters, helping them understand hunting’s role in effective wildlife management. Building awareness remains central to SCI’s mission.

Membership in SCI offers benefits beyond conservation and advocacy. Local chapters provide community, events, and international hunting opportunities for members. Jason emphasized SCI’s political advocacy, citing recent legislative successes that protected hunting rights and advanced conservation. Membership also fosters camaraderie and purpose among dedicated hunters worldwide.

Looking ahead, Jason outlined plans for chapter growth, membership expansion, and broader global influence. SCI aims to engage younger hunters through outreach and education. Conservation, advocacy, and community remain at the heart of their mission. With these priorities, SCI continues leading as a strong global voice for hunters.

http://SafariClub.org

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Known worldwide as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the wrestling icon revealed a surprising passion for the great outdoors. Before the fame, Austin learned patience, discipline, and respect while exploring the wild brush country of South Texas.

In an exclusive American Outdoor News interview, Austin shared the side fans rarely see. Not the wrestler or TV star, but the hunter who finds peace in the mountains and fulfillment in the field.

Austin began hunting with his father and brothers at just eight years old. He harvested his first whitetail deer at thirteen and became hooked on the hunting lifestyle.

Now living in Nevada, Austin hunts mule deer and antelope with his brother-in-law, a seasoned guide. For Austin, time spent glassing rugged terrain, scouting from a Kawasaki side-by-side, and embracing nature defines true success. Follow along for the rest of the interview - Dont forget to Subscribe, Like & Review our episode.

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

#StoneCold #SteveAustin #WWE #wrestling #Hunting #Outdoorsman #AmericanOutdoorNews

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices