Ara Megerdichian is one of the instructors at MTN Tough here in Bozeman. He happens to be one of the best motivational speakers I know, namely because he has a unique history that has molded him into a very mentally tough individual. Ara is a retired army ranger officer who has lead many soldiers and has also taught at West Point. In this podcast Ara and I talk about grinding through when the going gets tough. We also talk about decision fatigue how how to train yourself to avoid burnout. There comes a time both in hunting and in entrepreneurship where burnout  can effect our judgement calls. As someone who has been there on more than one occasion Ara has some guidance on the matter.
Show Notes: 
Intro – Overview – 0:02:37
Advice Balancing Family, Life, & Hunting – 0:12:38
Tightening the Shot Group & Self – 0:21:09
Decision Fatigue & Mind Training – 0:30:45
Advice on Mental Toughness – 1:00:48
Stillness & Time Management – 1:11:10
Inspiration, Creativity, & Burnout – 1:19:07
Final Advice – 1:25:51
Ara’s Book – 1:39:42

Todays podcast is made possible by ON X. I am a huge supporter of On X and use their mapping system constantly whether it is hunting season or not. Today I want to a quick pro tip for using your On X map in the field. Personally I use the On X app on my phone as my navigation, reference, hunt planner you name it. Obviously this is situation dependent and I want to be very clear about this I would only use only my phone in situations I am VERY confident in and feel that land navigation will be a zero issue if my phone mysteriously dies completely.

 One way I reduce decision fatigue on a hunt is by using the line distance tool in On X to plan out routes or hunts I want to check out. In the same way I may use the Area Shape tool to highlight zones or timber patches I want to check out. This may seem simple but on day 6 or 7 of a tough hunt I have often been able to look back at my maps and quickly come up with a game plan that I forgot about.
Just a quick pro tip and again if you don’t have On X I highly recommend giving it a download. Use code TRO and save yourself 20%.
 

EP 471: Ara Megerdichian on Mental Toughness & Enduring a Tough Hunt

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EP 635 Caleb Stillian | Tales from an Alaskan Hunting Guide
Join me this week as I sit down with Caleb Stillian, an intrepid Alaskan hunting guide whose passion for adventure led him from the heart of middle America to the untamed wilderness of Alaska. With nine years of experience as a hunting guide under his belt, Caleb regales us with captivating tales of his journey, from the decision to uproot his life and pursue his dream in Alaska to the unforgettable moments spent in pursuit of elusive game.
Prepare to be spellbound as Caleb recounts some of the most thrilling hunting expeditions of his career, including a harrowing tale of perseverance where he embarked on a grueling 24-hour mission to save a client’s life, showcasing the unwavering commitment and selflessness that defines the spirit of the Alaskan wilderness.
Beyond the adrenaline-pumping adventures, Caleb sheds light on the evolving landscape of the hunting industry and the crucial role of outfitters in providing unparalleled experiences for avid hunters. With keen insight and boundless enthusiasm, Caleb highlights the importance of bridging the gap between outfitters and clients, ensuring that every hunting expedition is not just a hunt, but an unforgettable journey of a lifetime.
Don’t miss out on this captivating episode filled with riveting stories, invaluable wisdom, and the indomitable spirit of the Alaskan wilderness. Tune in and join us for an unforgettable adventure with Caleb Stillian, where every moment is steeped in the thrill of the hunt and the timeless allure of the great outdoors.
Fuel your journey to greatness with Wilderness Athlete, our podcast sponsor. As I pursue my 2024 fitness goals, their Energy and Focus product has become a daily essential. Now, exclusively for our listeners, Wilderness Athlete offers a free sample pack—8 Hydrate and Recover, 5 Energy and Focus, plus a shaker bottle. Simply use promo code TRO to make the products free; just cover the shipping cost, which varies by location. Act fast; supplies are limited. Click the link here now and power up your routine with Wilderness Athlete sampler pack.
This episode is brought to you by Tricer USA, creators of gear designed to be fast, light, and simple. I recently got my hands on the Tricer BP PanHead, and it’s been a game-changer. Despite being incredibly lightweight, it’s surprisingly sturdy. Tricer’s innovative design, with thicker legs at the base, provides unmatched stability. The new BC and AC Tripods are now available for shipping, so grab yours before the season starts. Use code TRO at TricerUSA.com for a 10% discount
Elevate your hunting game with our ‘Elk Hunt 201′ course. Discover a sleek, 4-step system to sharpen your skills and conquer the hunt. No more endless droning – we’ve condensed the essentials into a streamlined, kick-ass guide. Plus, there’s an audio version perfect for your trek to elk camp. Ready to gear up for an epic adventure? Check out our Elk Hunt podcasts and brand new merch today.

Tales from an Alaskan Hunting Guide

EP 634: Shawn Melland
One thing. Just one thing. You stick to that and everything else don’t mean shit. – Curly 

This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome back Shawn Melland, a fan favorite and recurring guest. Join us as Shawn and I delve into topics ranging from bowhunting and success to achieving flow state and embracing challenges for personal growth.
Shawn’s journey is nothing short of remarkable – from aspiring athlete to one of the most accomplished big bull elk hunters wielding a bow. As a successful entrepreneur and dedicated football coach to his kids, Shawn’s story is one of resilience and determination.
In this episode, we explore Shawn’s path, from the setbacks of failed football dreams to his relentless pursuit of excellence in elk hunting. Despite the demands of his company and family commitments, Shawn shares the gripping tale of arrowing yet another majestic 390 bull this year – a testament to his unwavering dedication.
Drawing inspiration from the movie “City Slickers,” Shawn reflects on the quest for meaning and the importance of discovering that “one thing” for oneself. Join us for a captivating conversation filled with insights, anecdotes, and the timeless pursuit of purpose.
Tune in and immerse yourself in this engaging podcast – it’s sure to leave you inspired and motivated to tackle your own challenges head-on. Enjoy the journey with us!
Fuel your journey to greatness with Wilderness Athlete, our podcast sponsor. As I pursue my 2024 fitness goals, their Energy and Focus product has become a daily essential. Now, exclusively for our listeners, Wilderness Athlete offers a free sample pack—8 Hydrate and Recover, 5 Energy and Focus, plus a shaker bottle. Simply use promo code TRO to make the products free; just cover the shipping cost, which varies by location. Act fast; supplies are limited. Click the link here now and power up your routine with Wilderness Athlete sampler pack.
Today’s podcast is sponsored by ON X HUNT, the unrivaled standard for hunting maps. On X is launch in features and upgrading their app faster than I can keep up. there are so many amazing tools that will improve your hunting experience this fall. On X is a must have for me. If you aren’t an elite on x hunt member yet you need to upgrade the elite tier has so much to offer. From elite only mapping features to major discounts on partner brands you are probably paying for anyway. upgrade your account and check out all the amazing features that make ON X HUNT the best mapping system for hunter. TRO to save 20%.
Today’s episode is proudly sponsored by Tricer USA, creators of gear that embodies the essence of fast,

Shawn Melland | The One Thing

Ep 632 Ty Leary
This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome back the incomparable Ty Leary, a beloved show regular and true favorite among listeners. Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled ride as Ty recounts his epic Brown bear hunt, a tale that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Picture this: Ty, standing thigh-deep in the marsh, embarks on a daring stalk, inching closer to a colossal brown bear lurking just 30 yards away. As tension mounts, the bear’s curiosity draws it nearer, prompting Ty to make a split-second decision that will go down in hunting lore. With nerves of steel, he takes the shot, felling the beast in its tracks and etching his name in the annals of hunting history.
But that’s just the beginning. In the first half of the podcast, Ty delves into the intricacies of life and business, sharing insights gleaned from his recent venture into entrepreneurship. With a new business under his belt, Ty discusses the lessons learned from past experiences and his vision for creating a thriving and fulfilling workplace culture. Balancing ambition with a zest for life, Ty reflects on the delicate art of pursuing adventure while fostering employee happiness and prosperity.
As the conversation shifts to Ty’s Alaskan adventure, he regales us with tales from the untamed wilderness, recounting his most cherished moments and the profound lessons gleaned from his time in the skinning shack with seasoned guides. Join us for an unforgettable journey filled with wisdom, excitement, and the boundless spirit of adventure. Tune in and prepare to be inspired by Ty Leary’s remarkable tales and indomitable spirit. 

Ty Leary’s Epic Brown Bear Hunt and New Business Adventures

Entrepreneurial | EP 630 Mike Spadier  
Join us for an insightful discussion with a seasoned marketer who shares his journey from working with the renowned brand Onnit to his current role at Still Austin Whiskey. Delve into the early days of Onnit, where strategic planning and innovative marketing propelled the brand to success.
Discover the importance of doing remarkable things, driven by a culture of excellence and authenticity, as we explore the influence of Joe Rogan’s podcast and the necessity of financial stability in sustaining unconventional marketing strategies. Gain valuable insights into building a positive company culture and crafting authentic brand narratives that resonate with consumers.
From challenges of brand recognition to the myth of overnight success, this episode explores the evolving landscape of marketing and branding in the context of cultural shifts, trends, and emerging technologies. Join us as we navigate the future of branding and the enduring importance of authenticity in a rapidly changing digital age.
Podcast Show Notes:

* Introduction:

* Guest from Texas, previously worked at Onnit, now with Still Austin Whiskey.
* Initial involvement with Onnit through founder Aubrey Marcus.


* Early Days at Onnit:

* Onnit initially focused on sports performance and recovery supplements.
* Guest’s role in planning website, branding, and marketing.
* Negotiating terms to return as CMO after moving away temporarily.


* Doing Epic Sh*t:

* Emphasis on doing remarkable things both personally and professionally.
* Influence of Joe Rogan’s podcast on Onnit’s growth.
* Importance of financial stability to sustain innovative marketing strategies.


* Replicating Success:

* Discussion on the repeatability of Onnit’s success model.
* Importance of financial backing or solid business strategies for unconventional marketing.


* Building Culture:

* Positive and healthy culture at Onnit, driven by a focus on health and fitness.
* Impact of positive customer feedback on company morale.
* Contrasting cultures between Onnit and the whiskey industry.


* Storytelling and Branding:

* Importance of authentic brand narratives and campaigns.
* Example of Still Austin Whiskey’s branding approach.
* Balancing storytelling with product visibility, rejecting the notion of simply replicating Red Bull’s marketing approach.


* Challenges of Brand Recognition:

* Discussion about the challenge of ensuring brand recognition for a small business.
* Analogy of wearing a bird around town versus using billboards.


* Myth of Overnight Success:

* Analysis of the misconception of overnight success in business.
* Examples like Tito’s Vodka to illustrate the years of hard work behind rapid success.


* Cultural Shifts and Trends:

* Exploration of how cultural shifts and consumer trends impact the success of brands.
* Reference to the evolution of craft beer and the emergence of niche products.


* Authenticity in Marketing:

* Emphasis on the importance of authenticity in marketing.
* Contrast between polished brand campaigns and authentic content creation on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.


* Future of Branding:

* Speculation on the future of branding.
* Consideration of the influence of emerging technologies like AI on content creation.
* Enduring significance of authenticity and uniqueness in brand identity.



WA Fuel your journey to greatness with <a href="https://wildernessathlete.

Have a Story Worth Telling: From Building Onnit to Still Austin Whiskey with Mike Spadier

EP 629: James Yates 
This week, prepare to be enthralled as we sit down with James Yates, a true Renaissance man whose passions span the realms of mule deer hunting and engineering consultancy. James’s narrative is one of intrigue, having ventured deep into the world of rock climbing before fate beckoned him back to the untamed wilderness of hunting after a setback.
Join us as we unravel James’s journey, from the dizzying heights of rock climbing obsession to the rugged terrain of mule deer hunting. Delve into the depths of his evolution from a staunch advocate of bow-only hunting to a versatile and adept wielder of multiple weapons. With each twist and turn, James’s story embodies resilience, adaptability, and an insatiable thirst for adventure.
Revolutionize your mountain fitness journey with MTN Tough, the proud sponsor of this episode. This year, after a chance encounter with skeptical old-timers in Idaho, I committed to breaking away from the ordinary training routine. MTN Tough offers more than just a workout; it’s like having a personal trainer focused on building functional mountain strength. Currently tackling the Kettle Bell Diesel program, it’s a game-changer with movements that traditional training overlooked. If you’re determined to hunt the mountains well into your 60s, sign up for MTN Tough using code TRO24 for an exclusive free trial—long enough to experience the entire KB Diesel program before committing. Check it out
WA Fuel your journey to greatness with Wilderness Athlete, our podcast sponsor. As I pursue my 2024 fitness goals, their Energy and Focus product has become a daily essential. Now, exclusively for our listeners, Wilderness Athlete offers a free sample pack—8 Hydrate and Recover, 5 Energy and Focus, plus a shaker bottle. Simply use promo code TRO to make the products free; just cover the shipping cost, which varies by location. Act fast; supplies are limited. Click the link here now and power up your routine with Wilderness Athlete sampler pack.

This podcast is brought to you by Tricer USA they make gear that is Fast, Light and Simple.
Just got the Tricer BC Tripod and this thing is a dream. This is the lightest tripod I have owned feels purpose built for how I use a tripod as a hunter. I just want to say this thing is beefy as heck, don’t get it twisted just because it’s light doesn’t mean it chensy. Tricer Made one of the biggest innovations I have ever seen on a tripod and once you see it make so much sense. The legs are thicker at the base which give it a super stable base. The New BC and AC Tripods are shipping now so go get your hands on one before season. Use the Code TRO and save 10% TricerUSA.com TricerUSA Fast, Light, Simple.


EP 471: Ara Megerdichian on Mental Toughness & Enduring a Tough Hunt

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