In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Rob Kern, a prominent leader in the global hunting community who serves as the Managing Director of the Hunting Consortium and the President of the International Professional Hunters’ Association (IPHA). Rob shares his perspective from the intersection of outfitting, consulting, and association leadership, offering a deep dive into the professional standards that govern international and domestic hunting.


We discuss Rob’s commitment to setting realistic expectations for hunters and why reinforcing professional standards is vital for the industry's longevity. Rob explains his belief that the future of hunting depends as much on public trust as it does on biology, a distinction he feels is often underappreciated by those within the hunting community. We explore the difficult but necessary concept of “self-policing” and why the industry must be willing to hold its own accountable to maintain its social license to operate.


The conversation also turns toward the power of media and imagery. Through his work with Wild Strongholds, Rob emphasizes conservation storytelling that centers on local communities and experts rather than "performative" content. He reflects on the lessons learned from the Alpine Ibex film in Austria and offers insights into how hunting can be communicated more effectively to the non-hunting public without sanitizing the reality of the pursuit.


Finally, Rob provides an update on the Hunting Consortium’s long-standing work, specifically their management of over 1,000 Marco Polo sheep hunts since 1987. He discusses the recent U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service import approvals—a major win after a five-year freeze—and what that process reveals about the intersection of conservation science, advocacy, and trust.



Website & Socials

• Website: www.HuntCon.com
• Facebook: Hunting Consortium
• LinkedIn: Rob Kern

Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Derek Ham , the 2026 HSCF Convention Chairperson and an Agent specializing in ranch properties for Ruple Properties. Derek shares his unique journey, which has taken him from his roots in the Texas Panhandle and Houston to college in Austin and a stint in the music industry in Los Angeles, all while remaining a dedicated hunter.

We dive into how his varied life and professional experiences—including owning a commercial construction company and now specializing in ranch property—have shaped his perspective on land and conservation. Derek highlights the lessons passed down by his father regarding the appreciation of the land and how hunting can help people bond and heal.

Derek, whose true passion is for hunting and conservation, discusses his role as an HSCF Board Member and current Convention Chair, sharing why he became involved with the Houston Safari Club Foundation. We discuss the valuable resources HSCF provides for both new and experienced hunters and why listeners should attend the annual convention.

The conversation then shifts to his expertise in ranch real estate. Derek offers practical advice for prospective buyers , discusses the current climate of the ranch real estate market , and identifies the biggest mistakes buyers make when searching for recreational land. He also provides insights into what to look for in a property that has strong hunting and conservation potential and the critical role private landowners play in wildlife stewardship.

Website & Socials

• Website: www.rupleproperties.com
• Instagram: derekhamhunts

 Contact

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (713) 553-7047

Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Jeff Garrett to discuss a lifetime spent in the outdoors, ranging from his roots in Texas to extreme adventures across the globe. Jeff shares his background growing up in Bryan, hunting with his father and grandfather on modest hunts for squirrel, rabbit, dove, and quail. We discuss his progression into big game hunting, including 33 years on a Hill Country lease where he has secured top awards for Rio Grande Turkey, as well as his college years chasing West Texas mule deer.

We dive into Jeff’s current focus: completing the Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge with his son, Collin. With the goal of harvesting all 41 ducks and geese of North America, Jeff details their travels to locations like St. Paul Island—800 miles from Anchorage—and Obregon, Mexico. He shares the adventure of battling extreme weather in the Bering Sea to secure King Eiders, Long-tailed ducks, and Harlequins.

Jeff provides gripping accounts of his most memorable hunts, including the physical demands of chasing wild sheep and mountain goats. He recounts a harrowing experience in the Northwest Territories where he broke his ankle on a mountain peak and had to slide down to hike over a mile back to camp. We also hear the incredible story of his first trip to Africa in 2023 to hunt leopard, a dream inspired by reading Capstick as a child. Jeff describes tracking a cattle-killing leopard and a close encounter where the animal charged his truck, striking the window just inches from him.

As a firm believer in the mission of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF), Jeff highlights the organization's remarkable progress in education, conservation, and advocacy. We discuss the impact of the Foundation, including over $4 million in conservation grants and $3.36 million awarded in scholarships. Jeff also touches on the organization's 130% membership growth and its leadership in protecting the Second Amendment and sustainable hunting policies.

Tune in to hear Jeff Garrett’s insights on conservation, family bonds in the field, and the adrenaline of the hunt.

Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Anthony Vaughan, a Relationship Manager with Capital Farm Credit, who is based out of Winnie, TX. Anthony was raised in Southeast Texas, graduated from Hamshire-Fannett High School, and earned a business degree from Lamar University. His early life was shaped by agricultural mechanics and regional rodeo competitions.

We dive into Anthony's diverse background, which includes experience across the automotive, oil and gas, outdoor, and agricultural industries, discussing how these roles prepared him for his current position. Anthony shares what originally drew him to Capital Farm Credit and what he enjoys most about supporting borrowers with financing solutions for land acquisitions and operational needs related to farming and ranching.

Anthony provides an overview of Capital Farm Credit's services, explaining what sets them apart from other lenders, including their cooperative structure and the patronage program benefit for members. We discuss the common goals and challenges he sees among farmers, ranchers, and landowners, as well as how market trends and land values in Texas are affecting property management and financing. We also explore how Capital Farm Credit helps landowners invest in conservation and habitat improvement projects, aligning with the values of HSCF.

As a long-time corporate partner of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) , Anthony discusses the importance of the partnership and how groups like HSCF make a difference in the agricultural and outdoor communities.

Finally, we explore Anthony’s personal passions, including his side business, Birdstrap Leather Company, discussing how it started, what inspired the name, and how he balances the company with his professional and family life. Anthony shares his enjoyment of hunting, fishing, restoring his 1986 Chevrolet C10 with his son, and shooting clay targets with his daughter—hobbies that deeply align with the audience. He offers valuable advice for those looking to purchase their first piece of rural land or get involved in agriculture and land stewardship.

Tune in to hear Anthony's insights on land, family, and what keeps his career and lifestyle, rooted in Texas values, motivated and grounded.

Learn more about Anthony Vaughan and Capital Farm Credit:

Website: https://www.capitalfarmcredit.com/

Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Chris Conrad, the founder and owner of Republic Boot Co., a Houston-based bootmaker dedicated to preserving and celebrating Texan heritage through handcrafted cowboy boots. After spending time abroad, Chris returned to follow a "divine calling to save Texas" by starting his company in 2011.

We dive into Chris's journey, which began with deep family roots in Houston’s Heights dating back to the late 1800s. We discuss how his experience in Italy shaped his appreciation for culture and craft , and how his background in engineering and oil & gas brings a unique, process-driven approach to the artistry of boot-making. Chris shares the mission behind Republic Boot Co.'s immersive retail space—part museum, part saloon, part workshop—designed to make people feel a distinct connection to Texas heritage.

As an outdoorsman himself, Chris discusses how hunting has impacted his life and values. We explore the often-misunderstood role of hunters as stewards of the land and protectors of cultural heritage. Chris connects the spirit of the hunt—patience, respect, and self-reliance—to the philosophy of Republic Boot Co. , and how the boots he makes are designed to be heirloom products that carry the spirit of those stories and values.

Tune in to hear how Chris balances handcrafted quality with business growth , how he captures customers' personal stories in a custom boot , and what it means to him to be "saving Texas" beyond the business itself.

Learn more about Chris Conrad and Republic Boot Co.:
Website:https://www.republicbootcompany.com 
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RepublicBootCo 
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/republicboot1836/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-conrad-5479451a/ 

Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Micah Haarhoff, the 24-year-old President of Revolution Powersports. Known as the "Amazon Prime of the powersports world" for its speed and customer-first experience, Revolution Powersports has seen incredible growth under Micah's leadership.

A Texas-born entrepreneur and pilot, Micah also owns ventures in real estate and investments, driven by a passion for creating businesses that bring freedom and impact to his team and community. We dive into his journey, beginning at just 24 years old, and what sparked his passion for building companies. Micah shares the original vision behind Revolution Powersports and how the "Amazon Prime" model is delivered to customers through a process-driven approach focused on scalable systems and developing leaders.

We explore how his Christian faith and values influence his leadership and business decisions, and what it means to build a "life without limits". We also get the inside track on the company's expansion, including the new storefront and the launch of their parts department.

For our listeners who are hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, Micah breaks down how SXS (Side-by-Side) vehicles fit into the outdoor lifestyle. He shares key features and modifications he recommends for hunters and discusses the trend of increased interest from the hunting community for powersports vehicles.

Tune in to hear how Micah balances confidence with humility, the influence of his other passion—flying—on his business mindset, and his advice for young entrepreneurs looking to build a business that creates true freedom and impact.

Learn more about Micah Haarhoff and Revolution Powersports:

• Website: https://www.rpsride.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RevolutionPowersports
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rpsride
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rpsride

Learn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at WEHUNTWEGIVE.ORG!

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Vickie McMillan-Hayes, an acclaimed Wildlife Conservation Artist. A proud native Texan , Vickie channels her profound connection to nature into breathtaking wildlife, landscape, and iconic images of the rugged cowboy/girl amidst picturesque wild terrain.

Vickie's art is driven by a desire to evoke a sense of awe and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation by painting animals from around the world. We delve into her unique experience of living and studying animals in their natural African habitat for five summers , and how that fieldwork shaped her perspective. A truly inspiring part of our conversation focuses on how Vickie has overcome the challenge of Essential Tremors, a disability she has faced since age 16. She describes the incredible discipline required to achieve her desired stroke, which involves holding her breath while bracing her painting hand. We also discuss her success in the art world, including having her award-winning paintings featured in prestigious art museums and galleries , and what it was like to have her work selected for the U.S. Department of State’s Art in Embassies program.

Tune in to hear how Vickie sees the role of art in conservation and the legacy she hopes to leave.

Learn more about Vickie McMillan-Hayes and her art on her website at https://www.vickiemcmillan-hayes.com/.  Connect with Vickie on Facebook and Instagram.

Learn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at WEHUNTWEGIVE.ORG!

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Bobby Deeds, Wildlife Specialist for Record Rack Deer Feeds. Raised on a ranch in Central Texas, Bobby developed a strong focus on Wildlife Management early on. He holds a BS and an MS in Animal Science/Range and Wildlife Management from Angelo State University , and is a Certified Texas State Wildlife Biologist.

Bobby has been employed by Cargill Animal Nutrition for 20 years , where he works with formulation, R&D, and customers to develop innovative wildlife rations that provide solutions for professional game ranch managers. We discuss how his extensive education and experience as a Certified Texas State Wildlife Biologist allow him to consult with landowners and ranch managers on best management practices to improve wildlife production. We explore the biggest challenges facing wildlife and habitat management in Texas today and how supplemental feeding programs like those offered by Record Rack fit into a broader wildlife management plan. Bobby shares insight into the science behind designing a high-quality wildlife ration, how research in deer nutrition has evolved, and the significant role proper nutrition plays in the health and antler growth of deer herds. He also discusses what sets Record Rack apart as a trusted brand.


Learn more about Record Rack Deer Feeds on their website at https://recordrack.com/ ,
and connect with them on Facebook or YouTube


You can connect with Bobby Deeds by phone at 325-451-0030 or via email at [email protected].


Learn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at WEHUNTWEGIVE.ORG!

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Mike Arnold, a lifelong hunter and a Distinguished Research Professor and Head of the Department of Genetics at the University of Georgia. Mike brings a powerful scientific perspective to the world of hunting and conservation.

From his earliest hunts for quail and rabbits in his childhood to pursuing kudu and leopard in Africa and brocket deer in Mexico, Mike shares how the hunter’s horn sounded for him at age five and never stopped. We discuss the unique dynamic of sharing these adventures with his wife and videographer, Frances, a non-hunter herself.

Mike, who has published more than 220 articles and delivered two TEDx talks on conservation through trophy hunting, dives into his acclaimed books: BRINGING BACK THE LIONS and his newest release, BRINGING BACK THE WILD – Stories from Revitalized Ecosystems Around the World (2025). We explore what people most misunderstand about the hunter’s pivotal role in conservation, how local communities benefit, and the direct link between conservation biology and responsible hunting.

Tune in to hear how Mike balances his life as a scientist and an outdoor writer, stories from his recent safari in Mozambique, and what he’s most looking forward to on his upcoming trip to the Scottish Highlands.

• Website: mikearnoldoutdoors.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/arnoldoutdoorwriter

Learn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at wehuntwegive.org 

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Rudy Nix, a dedicated member of HSCF for over 20 years. Rudy has lived a life deeply connected to the outdoors. When not managing his ranch in the Texas Hill Country, where he spends countless hours clearing cedar and practicing land stewardship, Rudy is pursuing his passion for hunting across the globe. His adventures have taken him throughout North and South America, Africa, and New Zealand, using bow, rifle, and shotgun to experience a wide range of hunting traditions. As an HSCF member for more than two decades, Rudy has served the organization in numerous leadership roles, including Vice President, and currently as a Director on the HSCF Board of Directors. Rudy continues to give back to the next generation of conservation leaders through his service on the HSCF Dan L Duncan Scholarship Committee. In this episode of Hunting Matters, Rudy shares stories from his hunting experiences around the world and reflections on his years of involvement with HSCF. Listeners will also hear about the importance of scholarships and mentorship in shaping the future of conservation and the hunting community.

Learn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at https://hscfdn.org/ and the HSCF Dan L Duncan scholarship program at https://hscfdn.org/scholarship/.