I Went to the Woods

Ashley Stimpson is a journalist and president of the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In this episode we talk about her path into freelance writing and some of her favorite stories—ranging from greyhound racing to Mason–Dixon markers and AM radio. We discuss reporting, editing, pitching, the value of long-form work, and how finding community and organizations can help writers grow professionally and personally. 

Zack Butterfield is a hunter and mental health counselor. In this episode we talk about why getting outside—especially morning sunlight—helps mood, immunity, and stress regulation. We also talks about the role of social media, rural mental health, practical steps like short morning walks and light therapy, and his book "Hunting for Happiness." This episode blends hunting stories with accessible mental health ideas for outdoorspeople.

Kellen Golightly is an avid upland game hunter from Utah and host of Bird Camp Radio. We discuss Utah’s diverse upland species, public-land access, conservation challenges, and how Bird Camp Radio connects hunters across states to promote stewardship and community.

This short introduction is for my new project the I Went to the Woods podcast. A new show that features outdoor creatives, conservationists, filmmakers and writers sharing stories about hunting, fishing, conservation and the creative process.

Subscribe to I Went to the Woods to hear these interviews alongside On Step Alaska and follow both feeds to stay up to date with new episodes and behind-the-scenes conversations.

Abby and I were able to go on our first overnight alpine hunting trip in two years. (Thanks Mimi and Papa) We recap the hike up, the hectic stalk at last light, and hiking back to camp in the dark. We're tired, we're thirsty, but we're amped in this on-location episode. 



Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska. Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers 



Lou Tamposi and I walk through a practical, no-nonsense guide to processing deer—from head to hindquarter. We discuss cuts (tenderloin, backstrap, neck, shanks, ribs), cooking methods (braises, steaks, sausages, bacon), tools (knives, grinders, vacuum sealers), and using bones for stock.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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In this episode, Melis Coady explains the proposed Susitna‑Watana hydroelectric dam. We discuss its scale, potential impacts on salmon and local communities, and seismic risk. We also talk about the project’s history, funding pressures from public and private investors, and the renewable strategies like distributed wind, solar, and small hydro.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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I get asked about heavy equipment and tools even though this cabin build is a remote build so in this episode I go through the tools and boat gear for the cabin build. Then I get into the longevity of my hunting and fishing gear. 

I recorded this episode while I was making a run out to the cabin build site with the last of the tongue and groove decking for the roof, the fascia and the bargeboards. I recap the frustrations of the build, some of the good stuff, and go into details about what came in the "kit." 

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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It's time for the monthly check-in with writer and hunter Lou Tamposi. In this episode we chat about hunter image, the start of the the deer season, and how he's handling summer in Massachusetts. 

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Thanks to the sponsors: