In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris is joined by Zac Patrick to recap an amateur pre-Grand training day in Ohio. With dogs and handlers facing setups tougher than a finished test, the group experienced firsthand the challenges of precision, reading dogs, handling suction, and demanding casts. Chris and Zac break down what they saw—from handlers letting dogs drift too far, to key lessons about attacking blinds, to the importance of raising standards when preparing for the Grand. Whether you’re an amateur handler or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical insights, funny stories, and honest reflections from the training grounds.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Justin Smith and Justin Jackson to introduce an exciting new game in the retriever world: Hunting Retriever Trials (HRT). Born out of a desire to give handlers and owners a new challenge beyond traditional hunt tests, HRT offers structured classes, fair competition, and even cash payouts.

The conversation dives into the “why” behind this new format, how it’s structured, what the payouts look like, and why it could be a game-changer for amateurs, pros, and breeders alike. If you’ve ever wondered what’s next after your dog smokes the hunt test circuit—or you’ve dreamed of a retriever game with real returns—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with seasoned handler Mike Schwan to talk all things Grand. From early mistakes to eventually stacking up seven Grand passes, Mike shares the lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped him succeed at the biggest stage in hunt testing. Chris and Mike dig into pre-Grand training, handling blinds under pressure, dog preparation, and the value of traveling with pros and training groups. Whether you’re gearing up for your first Grand or just curious about what it takes to prepare for the biggest tests in the retriever game, this episode is packed with practical advice and great stories.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Dan Ihrke and Tyler Brenner at Gun Dog Success to talk about the start of hunting season and the lessons learned from recent hunt tests. From “rip and send” mistakes to the importance of line manners, they break down the small details that make a big difference at the line. The conversation dives into steadiness, when to let your dog choose a mark, and how foundations prevent long-term problems. Packed with real stories, laughs, and practical advice, this one’s a must-listen for anyone serious about improving their handling and building better retrievers.

In this powerful episode, Chris sits down with Glen Scarborough, President of the Hunting Retriever Club, to talk about his incredible journey in the retriever world. Glen shares how a near-fatal hunting accident changed his life, his path into HRC, and how the sport gave him purpose and community. From the growth of youth and women’s programs to keeping the HRC family-friendly and affordable, Glen offers insight into where the organization is headed. This conversation is part inspiration, part education, and a reminder of why we love the retriever game.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Marty Roberts of Sporting Life Kennels to dive deep into what makes a truly great breeding program. From his first Labrador “Jim Bob” to building a respected kennel operation, Marty shares how he selects for drive, style, trainability, and that all-important off switch. They explore the nuances of genetics, and why Marty’s unique “care program” ensures every dog gets both a hunting life and a family home. If you’re curious about breeding with purpose—not just producing puppies—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Chris Rud welcomes back pro trainer Dan Ihrke to announce the launch of RetrieverFoundations.com—featuring the brand-new Puppy Foundations course. They dive deep into why a rock-solid start between 2–6 months can set your retriever up for lifelong success in hunt tests, the field, and at home. From off-lead obedience to marking, water work, and developing a pup that loves to learn, this is the blueprint Dan has refined over decades. Plus, special launch pricing and free video previews so you can start shaping your pup’s future today.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with one of the most influential figures in the retriever world—Pat Burns. From his early days training and learning under Rex Carr, to running elite field trial dogs and coaching amateurs across the country, Pat shares the stories, philosophies, and lessons that have shaped his legendary career. Hear about his time working with iconic dogs like Cherokee Rose, his detour into sled dogs and performance nutrition in Alaska, and why he believes the best trainers are mellow, thoughtful, and always learning. Whether you’re running the Grand, Master Nationals, or just getting started, this episode is packed with gold for every student of the game.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud sits down with Purina's Ray Voigt—a seasoned pro in the retriever world and former right-hand man to Mike Lardy—for a wide-ranging Q&A that covers everything from training philosophies to field trial memories. They talk through the “Double T” controversy, what separates a good dog from a great one, and how to build confidence on long marks. Ray also shares insights into transitioning dogs to cold blinds, his favorite grounds (shoutout to Wilmington, IL), and even where to get the best Chinese takeout before a trial. Whether you're an amateur handler or aspiring pro, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and practical advice.

In this special bonus episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud opens up about the whirlwind experience of Winter’s third breeding. From stressful late-night vet visits and unexpected complications to the relief of a healthy litter, this is a raw and honest look at what really goes into producing competitive retrievers. Chris also drops an exciting announcement about a Pre-Grand Amateur Training Days happening this September in Ohio. Whether you’re considering breeding or looking to sharpen your dog's Grand game, this episode offers insight, humor, and a whole lot of real talk.