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.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with amateur retriever legend Ron Anderson. With 30 years in the game, Ron shares his journey from a farm in Louisiana to training multi-crowned champions like Smoke and Rip. They talk about what it takes to succeed in SRS, hunt tests, and field trials while balancing a day job and family. Ron reflects on building dogs from the ground up, the difference between male and female temperaments, and how hybrid setups keep his training sharp. This is an episode packed with stories, strategy, and straight-up inspiration for anyone chasing excellence in the retriever world.

In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary trainer Bill Hillman, we dive deeper into the philosophy and technical wisdom behind creating confident, decision-making retrievers. Bill discusses his approach to handling on marks—especially water cheats—and the importance of letting dogs commit to a mistake before correcting it. We explore topics like building experience through repetition, why orange bumpers can teach better than white, and how great dogs are made by helping them make great choices.

I also reflect on what I learned from our time together and how Hillman’s mindset as a student of the game continues to influence my own training journey. Whether you're an amateur with big goals or a seasoned pro looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with clarity, humility, and actionable insight.

In this special two-part series, host Chris Rud sits down with the legendary Bill Hillman, one of the most influential figures in the retriever training world. In Part 1, Bill opens up about his unlikely beginnings—from sneaking a $6 dog out of the humane society to pioneering in-home dog training in the 70s. With trademark wisdom and humor, Bill discusses what shaped his philosophy on dog behavior, the critical importance of clarity in training, and the early influences that led to the development of his most famous drills. Whether you're a die-hard student of the game or just starting out, this conversation is packed with perspective you won't want to miss.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud welcomes Jason Pflasterer, a passionate handler from Nebraska whose journey took him from hunting the Platte River to competing on the biggest stages in the retriever world. Jason shares how he was inspired by ESPN’s Great Outdoor Games, found his once-in-a-lifetime dog Cash, and built a championship-caliber team through relentless dedication and a love for the game. From tackling the Grand to placing high in the Crown, Jason talks about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re dreaming of your first hunt test or eyeing a national title, this conversation is packed with relatable insights, laughs, and practical advice for every amateur handler out there.

What happens when a retriever trainer’s meticulously customized dog trailer is stolen in the middle of the night? You get one of the wildest episodes yet. In this installment of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with Andrew Quintana to unpack the incredible true story of how his six-hole Ainley-topper trailer was swiped right out of his front yard. From a suspicious bark in the night, to a high-speed chase through Tennessee backroads, to a helicopter and K-9-assisted manhunt that ended in an arrest—this episode has it all.

Andrew breaks down the timeline, the adrenaline, the split-second decisions, and how sheer luck (and a very vocal dog) brought his trailer home. If you’ve ever trained dogs, towed gear, or left something valuable out for just one night, this story will hit hard. It’s part thriller, part cautionary tale, and entirely unforgettable.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with pro trainer Tyler Brenner for an unfiltered and entertaining conversation covering everything from golden retrievers in the Grand to the surprising history of Labradors as ship dogs. They discuss the instincts behind a great retriever, the nuances of pressure and motivation in training, and what it takes to be the "King of the Fluffies." You'll also hear Tyler's thoughts on what traits make for a dog worth breeding. From thick Labrador skin to the dog that started handling—yes, his name was Peter—this episode blends dog nerd history with hard-earned training wisdom and a healthy dose of laughter.

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Zac Patrick to talk about two unforgettable journeys—one built in the training field, the other across the icy waters of Alaska. Zac shares the story behind his Hall of Fame dog Jett, a yellow male with four Grand passes and a presence that turns heads. Then the conversation shifts to a truly rare opportunity: Zac and his father’s once-in-a-lifetime Emperor goose hunt in the remote Aleutian Islands. From retriever training insights to harlequins, caribou, and dodging sea lions in a zodiac, this one’s got it all. Don’t miss it.