BOLOTOR Podcast

As most freshwater anglers do, Gene Jensen (The Flukemaster) was exposed to bass angling and has been forever hooked. Today, he can be described as an avid bass angler and, at best, that description is an understatement. ⁣ Gene guided on Richmond Mill Lake for five years and it was there he learned he loved to teach people to fish. Today he owns and operates multiple social media channels, to include his YouTube channel, Flukemaster. He has amassed a gargantuan following of 320,000+ subscribers on YouTube and that number grows every day. ⁣ Through social media Gene shares his passion for bass fishing but also teaches others to fish. After all, it his motto: "Teaching the World to Fish". His passion and ability to teach others has propelled him to become a commonly known name in the recreational fishing world. This is not because of special marketing or advertising, but simply because he provides value to his following. More people are able to enjoy fishing because of Gene Jensen.

Amanda Lynn Mayhew, born and raised in Northern Ontario, grew up surrounded by the great outdoors. Her family was heavily involved in fishing, hunting, and camping, fostering a love for nature in Amanda from a young age. Upon moving to Southern Ontario, she realized that such an outdoor lifestyle wasn't common there, leading her to explore fitness and bodybuilding. Amanda carried her passion for the outdoors into raising her three boys, instilling in them the same appreciation for nature. ⁣ Amanda's transition to media prominence began when her outdoor activities caught public attention, resulting in a TV series pilot in 2016. This initial success blossomed into a 12-episode series on a national network, later rebranded as "That Hunting Girl" on the Sportsman Channel in 2019. Despite her busy career, Amanda maintains a rigorous fitness routine, including daily workouts, Pilates, yoga, and running, emphasizing the importance of staying active, especially as she approaches 50 years old. Amanda openly discusses her struggle with acromioclavicular arthritis in her shoulder, which prevents her from doing push-ups, though she still lifts weights. Known for doing 60-70 push-ups a day previously, she remains dedicated to her fitness regimen. ⁣ Reflecting on her journey, Amanda feels proud and excited for future adventures, including an upcoming fundraising event. She expresses gratitude for her experiences and the support of her family, noting the increasingly adventurous path her life has taken. Amanda is thrilled to participate in Sean Connery's "Dressed to Kilt" fundraising event, representing women in the outdoors in her camo with a bow. Despite her nerves, she looks forward to the opportunity.

Josh Murray is an accomplished actor and passionate traveler, whose journey began in New York and the Mid-Atlantic area. From a young age, Josh was deeply connected to nature, often exploring the outdoors and immersing himself in stories of explorers and frontiersmen. Initially on a path to a technical degree in computer science, personal challenges and a burgeoning passion for acting led him to shift careers. ⁣ Josh's acting career started with small roles, gradually progressing to more significant opportunities, including a notable performance in "Killing Lincoln." Despite the demands of his professional life, Josh maintains a profound love for travel and adventure, balancing his work with personal experiences and family time. n 2016, feeling stuck in his acting career and personal life, Josh made a bold decision to sell his house, discard most of his belongings, and embark on a transformative journey. Starting in Tortola and spontaneously traveling to Europe and Iceland, he sought to break free from his static life. This period of intense travel, which included facing extreme weather in Iceland and adventures in New Zealand and Australia, allowed him to confront fears, gain clarity, and mature. ⁣ These adventures, while daunting, were liberating for Josh and have significantly shaped his personal growth. Though he doesn't see a direct enhancement of his acting skills from his travels, he views these experiences as essential to living fully. Josh's journey, marked by self-discovery and adventure, continues to inspire and shape his life and career.

JJ Yosh is a prominent figure in the outdoor adventure space, known for his impressive social media presence and unique skill in handling animals, particularly his popular cat, Simon. His journey began in college, where his involvement in an excursion club sparked his passion for creating videos that promote outdoor activities. This passion continued post-college, leading to a series of inspiring videos that caught the attention of outdoor gear and clothing companies, earning him valuable sponsorships. ⁣ JJ has skillfully transitioned from simple promotional videos to integrating compelling storytelling with brand promotion. His ability to blend adventure with narrative has set him apart in the influencer space. JJ's work highlights the evolving process of obtaining brand sponsorships, moving from traditional phone calls to leveraging social media platforms. He collaborates with PR and marketing agencies to create engaging content while retaining creative freedom, a stark contrast to the more restrictive nature of traditional TV network projects. ⁣ Throughout his career, JJ has faced numerous physical and environmental challenges, including near-death experiences during adventurous hikes. These experiences have not only tested his survival skills but have also enriched his storytelling, making his content more relatable and engaging. Despite his public persona, JJ maintains a level of privacy in his personal life. Long-term, he aspires to create long-format storytelling content that blends adventure with narrative, akin to Steven Spielberg's style but with his own adventurous twist. JJ continues to adapt his ambitions to fit the evolving media landscape, aiming to build a media empire that seamlessly integrates brands into his storytelling.

Lauren Landers hails from the heartland of Joplin, Missouri, but her spirit found its true home amidst the vast expanse of the ocean. Her love affair with the sea began during idyllic family vacations to the Bahamas, where she found solace in the rhythm of the waves and the endless horizon. Fueling her passion, she pursued marine biology in college, diving headfirst into the study of the ocean's mysteries. By the tender age of 19, Lauren had already earned her stripes as a captain, navigating the azure waters with confidence and skill. At 21, she set sail on her own voyage, and by 22, she proudly owned her own vessel, a testament to her determination and adventurous spirit. However, it was during the tumultuous era of COVID-19 that her sailing journey truly set sail. Joining friends aboard their catamaran, she embarked on an unforgettable odyssey that would forever change her course. ⁣ From the tranquil shores of the Bahamas to the vibrant tapestry of the Caribbean, Lauren's seafaring adventures have been nothing short of extraordinary. Her latest endeavor? Crossing the mighty Pacific via the legendary Panama Canal—a feat once deemed daring, now embraced as a rite of passage for modern-day sailors. Drawing from her extensive experience navigating the Caribbean, Lauren faces the challenges ahead with a steely resolve, viewing each obstacle as an opportunity for growth. ⁣ But Lauren is more than just a sailor—she's a storyteller, a vlogger, and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring adventurers around the globe. Through her YouTube channel, she invites viewers into her world, offering a glimpse into the trials and triumphs of life aboard a sailboat. From engine failures to leaks, hurricanes to high seas, she navigates every hurdle with grace and grit, showcasing her problem-solving prowess and unwavering resilience. As she transitions from chartering to exploration, Lauren's journey is far from over. With the Pacific beckoning on the horizon, she charts a course towards new horizons and endless possibilities. Yet amidst the unpredictability of life at sea, one thing remains constant: her unwavering passion for the freedom, the adventure, and the sheer joy of sailing.

Scott Martin, a seasoned professional bass angler, hails from a family deeply rooted in the world of fishing. Growing up with both parents fishing professionally, Scott's passion for the sport was ignited at a young age. Immersed in various aspects of the fishing industry, from guiding to managing a marina resort, Scott honed his skills and knowledge over the years. In 1999, Scott made his foray into tournament fishing as an amateur, quickly proving his prowess and earning his tour card to compete at the professional level. Despite initial uncertainties, Scott's talent shone through, propelling him to become Angler of the Year at just 20 years old. Over the course of 25 years, Scott continued to excel in the competitive world of bass fishing, emphasizing the mental and physical demands of the sport. ⁣ One of Scott's most memorable moments came during a tournament in Mississippi, where he navigated through dense fog in Mobile Bay to clinch victory. Overcoming challenges like limited visibility and treacherous conditions, Scott's determination and skill secured him the win, showcasing his resilience as a professional angler. Scott holds a special place for his triumph in a Bass Masters tournament, where he set a record for the largest weight caught in the event's history. His journey is deeply intertwined with his father's influence, culminating in a poignant moment where Scott realized his dream of winning the same trophy his father did decades earlier. ⁣ Today, Scott finds fulfillment in mentoring his daughter, who follows in his footsteps by competing in fishing tournaments for the University of Alabama. Their relationship epitomizes the synergy and collaboration that Scott values, as they navigate the intricacies of the fishing world together. With a focus on long-term goals and a passion for the production side of fishing, Scott remains ambitious in his pursuits. Through his brand, the Scott Martin Challenge, he shares insights and experiences with aspiring anglers, emphasizing the importance of versatility, marketing skills, and maintaining a positive image in the industry.

Christine Reed's journey into the outdoors began in her 20s, sparked by a fascination with the Appalachian Trail. Despite a non-outdoorsy upbringing, she found purpose and inspiration through reading about the AT, leading her to plan and hike sections of the trail. Her path eventually led her to Yosemite, where she discovered rock climbing, although it wasn't until her move to Denver that she fully embraced the sport. ⁣ Feeling disconnected from conventional day-to-day life, Christine bought a van and embarked on a nomadic journey without a clear plan. As she navigated the road, she sought independence and faced questions about her motivations. Initially struggling to find community and purpose, she hiked the Wonderland Trail, which prompted her to reflect on solitude and independence. This introspection led her to write "Alone in Wonderland," a book that became a cornerstone of her journey. ⁣ Through her writing, Christine explores the interaction between independence and loneliness, shedding light on the complexities of living a nomadic lifestyle. Her experiences highlight the challenges and unexpected lessons of life on the road, offering insights into adaptation, learning, and finding comfort in the unconventional. Driven by a professional mission to impact the world through storytelling, Christine aims to transition into publishing other people's books, aspiring to publish 10 books a year by 2030. Her writing process involves intense focus interspersed with outdoor activities, often in coffee shops or her van. Looking ahead, she envisions owning a small A-frame cabin while maintaining her nomadic lifestyle.

Ryan Bauduin is a Marine Corps veteran, outdoor enthusiast, and founder of High Point Adventures, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping combat veterans find healing and purpose through outdoor experiences. Enlisting pre-9/11, Ryan didn't anticipate combat, but the events of September 11 changed everything, deepening his understanding of the profound reality of military service. Deploying to Babel province in Iraq in 2003, Ryan experienced intense combat during the Second Battle of Fallujah and other significant events. ⁣ After returning home from his military service, Ryan struggled with addiction and the devastating loss of both his parents to cancer within two months in 2011. Feeling disconnected and unfulfilled, he found solace and purpose through a hunting event organized by the Wounded Warrior Regiment, where he connected with fellow veterans and experienced the healing power of nature. This event sparked his interest in photography, eventually leading him to pursue it seriously and transition to a more fulfilling lifestyle centered around homesteading and outdoor photography. ⁣ In 2012, feeling burnt out from his job, Ryan took a leap of faith and quit without a clear plan, except for finding peace through photography. Despite initial skepticism, he pursued his passion, learning photography through YouTube and college courses. An opportunity to film hunts led to four seasons on the Pursuit Channel and eventually to the founding of High Point Adventures. Ryan's nonprofit organization now takes veterans on hunts, providing them with healing experiences in nature. Balancing still photography and filming.

Kelly was practically born trad climbing. From the tender age of two, Kelly was out exploring and scaling mountains with her family all over the country. Kelly's real passion has always been for traditional adventure climbing and she has an impressive list of accomplishments and first ascents to her name. ⁣ At 18 Kelly ran from the concrete jungle to the hills of West Virginia to begin an apprenticeship with the highly respected Seneca Rocks Mountain Guides. It was there that Kelly found her calling as a climbing guide. In 2011 Kelly founded Athena Rock Climbing (as Chicks With Nuts), a series of women's only climbing events designed to help women advance their skills together on the rock. Kelly traveled cross country to complete her continuing education through the Professional Climbing Guide Institute in the winter of 2015 in Joshua Tree. After spending the week in Joshua Tree, Kelly decided on a seasonal migration to the desert to fulfill her dream of guiding year round. ⁣ Kelly now lives the dream guiding for half the year on the east coast and the other half for us in Joshua Tree. She is always seeking to advance in the field, and became the first female guide to attain the Multi Pitch Guide certification through the PCGI in 2019. Kelly's quick and quirky sense of humor, her most excellent technical climbing skills, and her dedication to her craft make any day out with her extra special.

John Crews is a seasoned professional bass fisherman with an impressive 24-year career in the industry. His journey began during his high school years when a friend introduced him to bass fishing tournaments, igniting a passion that would shape his future. Despite facing initial challenges in college, Crews graduated with straight A's in his final two years, all while nurturing his dream of becoming a professional angler. ⁣ It wasn't until four years of dedicated full-time fishing that Crews secured his first paying sponsor, marking a pivotal moment in his career trajectory. Undeterred by obstacles, he persevered and eventually established himself as a prominent figure in the fishing industry. Alongside his tournament pursuits, Crews founded Missile Baits, a successful fishing lure company that complemented his fishing endeavors. ⁣ Crews navigates the challenges of managing multiple roles, from communication with suppliers to social media marketing and product design. He shares anecdotes about the complexities of running a product-based company like Missile Baits and highlights the importance of staying ahead of industry trends. Delving into the intricacies of modern advertising methods, Crews explores various strategies, from influencer marketing to geofencing. He shares insights into the effectiveness of these techniques and the importance of maintaining an efficient team.