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What’s really happening in the Ozark woods right now, and why aren’t more people talking about it?
→ Join other Ozarkers in our Patreon - The Holler
In this episode, we sit down with first-generation logger Roy Pilgrim, a guy who spends more time in the forest than just about anyone.
From horse logging with mules to running a modern timber operation, Roy brings a rare, ground-level perspective on the health of our woods. If you hunt, hike, or care about the future of the Ozarks, this conversation will challenge what you think a “healthy forest” actually looks like.
Roy breaks down the history of Ozark forests, from fire-shaped oak savannas to today’s closed-canopy woods, and introduces the concept of “mesophication,” where shade-tolerant species like maple and elm are quietly replacing oak and hickory.
The result? Darker, denser forests with less biodiversity, fewer game species, and long-term unknown consequences. It’s a thoughtful, eye-opening look at how removing fire (and stepping away from active management) has reshaped the landscape in ways most people never notice.
Together with...
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks
Prism Glass Co - Luxury residential glass and mirror installation
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Roy getting into logging
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]
By Kyle Veit & Kyle Plunkett4.9
190190 ratings
What’s really happening in the Ozark woods right now, and why aren’t more people talking about it?
→ Join other Ozarkers in our Patreon - The Holler
In this episode, we sit down with first-generation logger Roy Pilgrim, a guy who spends more time in the forest than just about anyone.
From horse logging with mules to running a modern timber operation, Roy brings a rare, ground-level perspective on the health of our woods. If you hunt, hike, or care about the future of the Ozarks, this conversation will challenge what you think a “healthy forest” actually looks like.
Roy breaks down the history of Ozark forests, from fire-shaped oak savannas to today’s closed-canopy woods, and introduces the concept of “mesophication,” where shade-tolerant species like maple and elm are quietly replacing oak and hickory.
The result? Darker, denser forests with less biodiversity, fewer game species, and long-term unknown consequences. It’s a thoughtful, eye-opening look at how removing fire (and stepping away from active management) has reshaped the landscape in ways most people never notice.
Together with...
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks
Prism Glass Co - Luxury residential glass and mirror installation
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Roy getting into logging
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

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