EatWild Podcast

By EatWild MediaSports Education How To Wilderness

EatWild Podcast episodes

October 17, 2025 EatWild 102 - Campfire Q&A - On a Mule Deer hunt with Dave GU
Join us as I head out on a mule deer hunt with new hunter, Dave Gu.
Dave comes from a background in kinesiology and works as a Wim Hof instructor and personal trainer. He’s also a talented storyteller, sharing his powerful journey of thriving in life while managing Ankylosing Spondylitis — a challenging autoimmune disease.
Dave found me on his journey to become a hunter, and we’ve since become great friends. Last weekend, I was looking for a hunting partner to explore some new zones, and Dave was keen to join. As we headed out, Dave fired question after question about how I research and find deer habitat — so I decided to turn on the podcast mic.
This turned into a great conversation (and a great hunt!) about how to find and see deer. You’ll learn how I scout and hunt target areas to maximize the chances of success.
Here's the link to the iHunter App Field Guide Course: https://eatwild.ca/products/3187654
We could probably call this episode “How to Find and See Deer on the Hunt."
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast.
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
1 hr 16 min
August 30, 2025 EatWild 101 - Elk Hunting Lessons with Jordan Kowalchuk
It’s elk season, and I’m heading to Elk Heaven! Join me as I get excited for the season in a conversation with one of BC’s most knowledgeable and skilled hunters, Jordan Kowalchuk of @BCBackcountry. This is our second podcast together, where we dive into the world of elk hunting, sharing personal experiences, lessons learned, and successful strategies. During our discussion, we explore the evolution of hunting techniques, the significance of persistence, and the thrill of pursuing mature bulls. We also cover how environmental factors affect elk behavior, the crucial timing during the hunting season, and the balance between adventure and success in hunting.
Focusing on camaraderie and shared experiences, this episode captures the essence of being an elk hunter. Jordan shares his insights on tracking, shot placement, and the importance of patience and strategy. He talks about the challenges of tracking wounded elk, lessons learned from missed shots, and the necessity of understanding elk behavior. Additionally, we discuss bullet performance and the value of documenting hunting experiences for future reference.
You can keep up with Jordan @BCBackcountry on Instagram.
Here's a link to the EatWild Elk Hunting Online Course and the iHunter Field Guide to help you get ready for the season.
00:00 Elk Hunting Adventures: A Journey Begins
05:06 Lessons from the Kootenays: Early Elk Hunting Experiences
09:59 Transitioning to Mature Bulls: Evolving Hunting Strategies
14:50 The Impact of Environment on Elk Populations
19:53 Timing the Hunt: Pre-Rut, Peak Rut, and Post-Rut Insights
37:34 Understanding the Elk Rut Cycle
41:50 Dream Adventure Hunts in British Columbia
44:49 The Thrill of Elk Hunting
49:39 Lessons Learned from Elk Shooting Experiences
01:11:08 Heartbreak and Lessons from Missed Shots
01:12:30 The Human Element in Decision Making
01:13:15 The Importance of Shot Placement
01:15:28 Calling Strategies and Elk Behaviour
01:18:05 Tracking and Blood Trails
01:20:28 Instinct vs. Process in Hunting
01:21:49 The Value of Autopsies in Hunting
01:25:36 Documenting Experiences for Future Success
01:30:14 Bad Hunting Advice and Learning from Mistakes

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast.
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

1 hr 42 min
August 16, 2025 EatWild 100 - Cougars Up Close - Researching cougar behaviour with wildlife biologist Julie Thomas
I've always known that cougars tend to avoid humans, with only a few close calls while sneaking around in the woods. However, this summer has seen several unusual encounters with cougars in Whistler and Squamish, including instances of cougars stalking hikers and chasing mountain bikers in popular recreation areas. I was curious about the reasons behind this behaviour, so I reached out to wildlife biologist Julie Thomas.
In our conversation, Julie discusses her research on cougars in central British Columbia, focusing on their predator-prey relationship with caribou. She explains how changes in the landscape impact cougar behaviour, their hunting techniques, and their adaptability to various environments. We also delve into field research methods, including the process of capturing and collaring cougars, as well as the complexities of human-cougar interactions, especially in areas where cougars have been sighted near popular trails. Julie shares insights from her experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding these magnificent creatures in the context of conservation and wildlife management.
I also share a couple of my close brushes with cougars in the wild.
You can follow Julie here for more on her research and catch amazing cougar footage @wild_juliethomas on Instagram.

Check out the latest EatWild Online Course - iHunter App Field Guide: Tools and tactics for successful hunts
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

1 hr 2 min
July 09, 2025 EatWild 99 - Harvesting Seaweed and Kelp with Eric Warner
In recent years, I have grown increasingly interested in kelp. It's delicious and nutritious, and at many places I roam, it's abundant for harvesting. I wanted to know more, so I asked Eric Warner, a seaweed and kelp enthusiast, to join me on the podcast.
In this conversation, Eric Warner discusses his passion for seaweed and the project Self Kelp, which aims to educate the public about the importance of seaweed and its culinary uses. The discussion covers the decline of kelp forests, the benefits of kelp farming, and the ecological significance of kelp ecosystems. Eric shares insights on harvesting and storing seaweed, as well as its nutritional value. The conversation also explores the cultural significance of foraging and hunting, highlighting the connection between food sources and the natural world.
You can learn more about Eric and Self Kelp on Instagram
Be sure to catch a screening of Seaweed Chronicles: From Tide to Table in your community.
Check out the latest EatWild Online Course - iHunter App Field Guide: Tools and tactics for successful hunts
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
50 min
June 07, 2025EatWild 98 - Blood Origins: Hunting for conservation from Africa to BC - Robbie Kroger
Is hunting good for wildlife and conservation? As hunters, we attempt to convey the story of how hunters contribute to conservation. We identify as conservationists and espound on our contributions to wildlife management efforts. These actions and connections are often unseen or not understood. It's a complex story to tell, and so I invited Robbie Kroger of Blood Origins to help better understand how to convey the role of hunting in wildlife management and conservation to those outside our community.

Robbie is a master at connecting the dots between hunting, wildlife value, and habitat preservation in his storytelling. He has elevated the importance of hunting as a conservation and wildlife management tool. He shares the journey of Blood Origins, a project aimed at communicating the heart of a hunter and dispelling misconceptions about hunting. He also addresses the privilege of hunting and the role of sharing the harvest with others.

The conversation explores the value of hunting and its connection to nature, the importance of supporting a positive message about hunting, the challenges faced by indigenous communities in accessing land for hunting, the ownership of First Nations territories, the impact of hunting bans on wildlife, and a dream hunting opportunity in British Columbia.

EatWild Podcast takeaways
Hunting plays a crucial role in conservation and wildlife management.
Connecting the dots between hunting, wildlife value, and habitat preservation is essential.
Not everyone is meant to hunt, but those who do should prioritize sharing the harvest.
Hunting for food and valuing wildlife are powerful arguments in favour of hunting. Hunting is a primal and deeply ingrained activity for many individuals, providing a sense of connection to nature and fulfilling innate desires.
When discussing hunting with others, it is essential to use language that supports a positive message and highlights the benefits of hunting, such as wildlife conservation and habitat protection.
Indigenous communities in Canada and other post-colonial nations are reclaiming their connection to land and requesting that resident hunters respect their traditional territories.
The ownership of First Nations territories in Canada is complex, with some lands owned by the Crown and others being repatriated to indigenous communities.
Hunting bans can have unintended consequences, including the loss of value for wildlife and the need for alternative sources of revenue for local communities.
A dream hunting opportunity in British Columbia is coastal black bear hunting, which offers a unique experience in a beautiful setting.
Supporting organizations like Blood Origins Canada can help promote a positive image of hunting and support conservation efforts.
Individuals can support Blood Origins Canada through the Conservation Club, which offers various membership levels and monthly giveaways.
There is potential for collaboration between Blood Origins and the EatWild Podcast to create content and events that promote hunting and conservation.
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast.
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
1 hr 15 min
April 06, 2025 EatWild in Africa - 97 - What we learned on a hunt on the other side of the world
Miki and I take you on a hunting adventure to South Africa in this episode. Just over a year ago, we bid on a trip to Africa at the Wild Sheep Society of BC's conservation fundraiser auction. A year later, we were welcomed by the Bosveld Jacobs Safari team on the other side of the world.
Travelling away from home to hunt has been a foreign concept for me. Hunting in a place without connection to the place, the people, and the animals raises many questions about how this can fit together and align with our hunting ethic. Miki and I spent the months leading up and the days on the hunt processing these questions. And now we have answers! We are excited to share what we learned from the mind-blowing experiences of this Adventure.
While on the hunt, I interviewed Drian Laas, the professional hunter who guides and facilitates the hunting experience. I caught up with Riaan Jacobs, owner of the Boshveld Jocobs Safaris, who donated the hunt to the fundraiser at this year's Wild Sheep Society of BC fundraiser in Penticton.
I hope you enjoy this podcast as we dive into the complexities of hunting in a foreign country, touching on the ethics of sport versus sustenance, strategies used in guided hunts, and the emotional highs and lows that come with the experience.
I am excited about returning to Africa and will plan a trip in the next few years. I will be organizing a trip for folks who are part of the EatWild community. If you are curious about Africa or may want to join our Adventure, please reach out!
If you listen to this podcast ahead of April 7th, there is still time for you to join Spike Camp and enter for a chance to win a trip to Africa.
I want to thank Bosveld Jacobs Safaris for the generous donations to help fund wild sheep conservation in BC, and for taking such good care of Miki and me and truly facilitating a trip of a lifetime.
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections
03:23 The Adventure Begins: Hunting in South Africa
11:17 Exploring the Landscape and Wildlife
19:16 The Guided Hunting Experience
29:48 Reflections on Ethics and Experience
38:52 Setting the Scene: A Day in the Wild
40:15 Meet the Professional Hunter: Insights from Triane
41:39 The Role of a Professional Hunter: More Than Just a Job
43:07 Exploring the Landscape: The Beauty of Limpopo
45:57 Diverse Wildlife: The Spectrum of Animals in South Africa
49:32 Hunting Strategies: The Approach to a Successful Hunt
53:19 The Art of the Stalk: Techniques for Success
56:44 Ethics in Hunting: Choosing the Right Animal
01:00:01 Passion for the Job: What Drives a Professional Hunter
01:02:51 Dream Hunts: Aspirations Beyond Borders
01:04:08 The Afternoon Hunt: Bush Buck Adventures
01:07:02 Understanding the Hunting Industry: Insights from Rhian
01:14:25 Utilizing the Harvest: Meat Distribution and Community Impact
01:16:46 Conservation and Community Impact
01:20:12 Tourism and Wildlife Management
01:22:04 Entry-Level Hunting Opportunities
01:24:37 The Experience of African Hunting
01:30:15 Reflections on the African Adventure
01:51:13 Diversity of Wildlife and Hunting Techniques
01:54:50 The Kudu Hunt Experience
02:01:26 Lessons from a Challenging Hunt
02:06:28 Value of Hunting in Conservation
02:14:10 Experiencing Kruger National Park
02:24:43 Reflections and Future Adventures

2 hr 27 min
February 14, 2025EatWild 96 - Coastal Goat Hunting - A hunt guided by a millennia of observation and tradition with Spencer Greening & Adam Foss
Join us for a coastal goat hunt with Spencer Greening La'goot and Adam Foss as they recap their coastal goat mountain hunt in Gitga'at Territory. This was a wet and challenging hunt and offered an opportunity for reflection and learning from Indigenous knowledge and practice from time immemorial.
In this episode, Dylan, Adam, and Spencer dive into the deep connections between hunting, personal growth, and cultural traditions. They explore the balance between family responsibilities and outdoor adventures, the spiritual and ethical dimensions of hunting, and the significance of mountain goats in Indigenous traditions.
Through their experiences in bow hunting and navigating rugged mountain terrain, they highlight the importance of patience, mental resilience, and traditional knowledge. The conversation also touches on the role of storytelling in preserving Indigenous hunting perspectives and ecological wisdom.
Find La'goot here!
Find Adam here!
Key Takeaways:
Hunting is as much about the experience as the harvest.
Mountain goats hold deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Success in hunting is shaped by knowledge, preparation, and respect for nature.
Ethical considerations and conservation must include Indigenous perspectives.
Storytelling plays a crucial role in passing down hunting traditions and wisdom.
Tune in for an insightful discussion on the challenges, lessons, and connections that make hunting more than just a pursuit—it's a journey of growth, respect, and heritage.

Chapters
00:00 New Year Reflections and Personal Growth
03:05 Balancing Parenthood and Outdoor Adventures
06:00 Cultural Significance of Mountain Goats
08:52 The Journey of Goat Hunting: A Shared Experience
11:57 Understanding the Mountain Goat: A Hunter's Perspective
15:10 The Challenges of Bow Hunting Mountain Goats
18:11 Research and Conservation: The Importance of Traditional Knowledge
21:11 The Nuances of Goat Herd Management
23:54 The Spiritual Connection in Hunting
26:57 The Art of the Hunt: A Personal Story
29:46 The Ethics of Hunting and Wildlife Management
43:35 Reflecting on Past Experiences
43:58 Choosing the Right Location for Hunting
45:00 Facing Adverse Weather Conditions
46:12 The Role of Relationships in Hunting Projects
46:48 The Challenges of Mountain Hunting
50:01 Describing the Hunting Environment
51:03 The Toughness of Traditional Hunters
53:54 Navigating Difficult Terrain
01:00:02 The First Night's Struggles
01:06:00 Enduring Continuous Rain
01:09:00 Strategies for Managing Moisture
01:15:02 Lessons from Ancestors and Traditional Knowledge
01:17:19 The Privilege of Indigenous Hunting Practices
01:19:50 The Challenges of the Hunt
01:21:58 The Search for the Mountain Goat
01:25:42 The Moment of Truth
01:32:02 The Ethics of Hunting
01:35:10 Reflections on the Hunting Experience
01:40:19 Cultural Significance of Hunting
01:43:20 The Journey Home
01:51:12 Future Projects and Storytelling
2 hr 6 min
January 13, 2025 EatWild 95 - Whitetail Camp - Tradition of Mentorship
After a successful whitetail hunt, we are recording this podcast from the wall tent. I am joined by Miki, Jenny P, Rob and his daughter Bella. This is our first whitetail camp without the old boys.... our mentors, and elders. The barriers that come with aging prevented Geoff, Pete and Larri from being able to join. It's been 35 years of whitetail camps for me and over 50 years for the old boys. So what's next for whitetail camp?
Podcast summary:
We reflect on the importance of mentorship, community, and the generational knowledge passed down through hunting traditions. The conversation highlights the evolving dynamics of the hunting community, including the breaking of gender barriers and the significance of storytelling. The gang share their personal journeys and the skills learned through their experiences, emphasizing the value of ethical hunting practices and the bonds formed in the outdoors. In this engaging conversation, the participants share their experiences and insights from a recent hunting trip, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning, adapting strategies, and unexpected encounters with wildlife. We reflect on the lessons learned from various incidents, the significance of community support, and the growth that comes from mentorship and shared experiences in the outdoors.
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Whitetail Camp
03:01 The Importance of Mentorship in Hunting
06:05 Breaking Barriers: Gender in Hunting
08:56 Generational Knowledge and Storytelling
12:10 Learning Ethical Hunting Practices
15:05 The New Generation of Hunters
18:06 Reflections on the Past and Future of Camp
21:02 Experiences and Lessons from the Hunt
31:31 Hands-On Learning in Hunting
34:57 Adapting Hunting Strategies
37:48 Unexpected Encounters with Wildlife
44:48 Lessons from Hunting Incidents
46:47 The Importance of Community and Support
52:07 Reflections on Growth and Mentorship

1 hr
December 05, 2024EatWild 94 - A Private Land Hunt with Jody Peck - Tips for accessing and hunting private land
In this episode of the EatWild Podcast, I’m joined by Jody Peck on my first-ever private land hunting trip in the Peace Country. Jody, a wild chef and a key part of our team, invited me to hunt on her family’s private land. Join us on the hunt as we look over the expanse of the wildlife-rich country and puzzle out how we will make for a successful hunt.
While sitting in the truck blind, we explore what it’s like to hunt large, open fields—where spotting animals is easy, but closing the distance can be tough due to the lack of cover. Jody shares insights on building relationships with landowners to gain and maintain access to private land. We also discuss shooting at longer distances, meat care, and butchering, with Jody sharing her favourite cuts and techniques.
I also highlight the iHunter app, which helped us navigate property boundaries and track the wind—key tools for a successful hunt.
Lastly, I want to dedicate this episode to my friend Lew Bates, a legendary mountain hunter, skilled gunsmith, and absolute rock of a human to his family, friends, and community. He passed away this summer. He will be missed.

Here are the key topics covered in the episode:
Hunting on Private Land: The episode covers practical advice on how to gain and maintain access to private land and how to nurture relationships with landowners to ensure continued access.
Hunting Strategies: The episode delves into the logistics of hunting on large, open fields where wildlife is visible from a distance, but closing that distance can be difficult due to the lack of cover.
Shooting and Meat Care: The podcast touches on techniques for shooting at longer distances and the importance of proper meat care and butchering.
Tools and Technology: Dylan highlights the use of the iHunter app for navigation and planning, especially its features like identifying private property boundaries and wind direction—critical tools for a successful hunt in such vast areas.
The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
1 hr 22 min
November 08, 2024 EatWild 93 - Mike Morash - The "R.O.I." on killing your food
In this episode of the EarWild Podcast, we are handing out Mike Morash. Mike is a hunter and food enthusiast. Mike shares his relationship to food and hunting in the documentary series The Land Provides, which explores themes of hunting, food security, and people's deep connections with the land. We discuss the spirituality of hunting, the ethics involved, memorable experiences in the field, and practical tips for gear. The conversation highlights the importance of community and conservation in the hunting culture, culminating in a discussion about dream hunts in British Columbia.
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeMorash
instagram.com/mike.morash

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure.
As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15
Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:46 Creating Knowledge Mobilization Resources
06:25 Traveling for Work and Hunting
08:25 Building Rapport through Hunting
10:45 Navigating Hunting in Traditional Territories
12:26 Balancing Access to Hunting Areas
14:57 The Land Provides Project
18:17 Food Security and the Importance of Food
20:10 Understanding the True Cost of Food
22:30 The Value of Cooking and Sharing Food
26:14 The Benefits of Hunting for Food
28:52 Emotional Reactions to Harvesting Animals
33:16 The Influence of Hunting Media and the Journey of Becoming a Hunter
41:56 The Importance of Mental Health and Deep Connections in the Hunting Community
47:10 Essential Gear for Hunting in Challenging Environments
49:50 Memorable Backcountry Meals and the Emotional Connection to Food
53:54 The Physical Exertion and Reward of Challenging Packouts
56:18 Dream Hunts and the Desire for New Experiences

58 min