Welcome to the Rich Outdoors, where I sit down with guests of all kinds to discuss adventure, hunting and entrepreneurship. I am constantly looking to grow and expand and hopefully along the way add value to you the listener as well.

In todays podcast I am joined by Rocky Crandell, an Instructor at the University of Montana Western in Dillon. Rocky joins me to chat about the outdoor industry, the business of guides and outfitters and the pot holes of entrepreneurship. Rocky shares some of his own struggles along the way and we discuss some of the trends we see within the guide and outfitter space. I hope you guys enjoy this conversation and if you have an questions be sure to follow up with Rocky
rocky.crandell@umwestern.edu
Show Notes: 
Intro – 0:04:13
About Rocky Crandell – 0:06:46
Career Start, Ventures, & Transitions – 0:13:42
Speed Bumps of Your Own Business – 0:22:03
University Montana Western’s New Guide & Outfitter Degree – 0:33:57
The “Outdoor Industry” & How It’s Changing – 0:44:00
The Current Value of a College Education – 0:54:18
Content Creation & the Future – 0:59:51
If You Could Go Back In Time – 1:09:41
Where to Learn More & Contact Rocky – 1:13:48
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This podcast is also brought to you by Backcountry Fuel. The Subscription box that you will are going actually use every month. Funny story, Paul and told me he thought it was funny that I say on the podcast ads, “stock up and save for hunting season” because his boxes go straight into his truck and never make it more than a week.
Whether you just want a secret truck stash of tasty snacks or you actually want to stock up your food supply for hunting season, go sign up for Backcountry Fuel Box. If you aren’t satisfied with your first box I will give you a 100% refund.


EP 456: The Business of Guiding and Outfitting with Rocky Crandell

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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
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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.
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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.



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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.
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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 456: The Business of Guiding and Outfitting with Rocky Crandell

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