In this week's episode of the Ignite Podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with the inspiring Jana Waller-Behr at Sheep Show 2026. Jana, a seasoned hunter and television host, shares her lifelong passion for hunting, which began in her childhood under the guidance of her father. She recounts her early experiences in the duck blinds and pheasant fields, which ignited a passion that has spanned over five decades.

Jana discusses her journey into the hunting industry, highlighting her transition from a career in the financial sector to becoming a prominent figure in outdoor television. She shares the story behind her show, Skullbound, and its evolution over the years, including the recent launch of her YouTube channel, Skullbound with Jana Waller Bear. This new platform will feature a comprehensive collection of her work, including episodes from the past 16 seasons, shorts, and how-to videos.

The ladies also delve into the topic of health, biohacking, fitness and good food. It takes a lot of physical fitness for Jana to hunt as much as she does so Dana asked her to share how she stays fit and the things she does to make sure when she's in the field, her body will be strong.

Dana and Jana also delve into personal stories, discussing the challenges and triumphs of their hunting adventures. Jana's anecdotes about her most memorable hunts, including her sheep hunt and grizzly bear expedition, offer listeners a glimpse into the thrilling and often emotional experiences that define her career.

This episode is a testament to Jana Waller-Behr's passion for hunting, her dedication to conservation, and her role as a trailblazer for women in the outdoor industry. Her stories inspire and encourage listeners to pursue their passions and embrace the adventures that life offers.

You can follow Jana on Instagram at @skullboundtv and follow her new YouTube channel at @SkullBound_TV

Summary

In this episode of the Ignite podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with Gray Thornton, the President and CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation. They discuss the aftermath of the Sheep Show, the importance of mentorship in hunting, and the transformative power of the Wild Sheep Foundation's programs. Gray shares his personal journey into the hunting community, emphasizing the significance of relationships and inclusivity. The conversation highlights the foundation's impact on conservation efforts and the excitement surrounding the upcoming 50th anniversary Sheep Show.

Takeaways

The Sheep Show is a significant event for the Wild Sheep Foundation, marking a time of reflection and planning for the future.
Gray Thornton has dedicated 18 years to the Wild Sheep Foundation, focusing on conservation and community engagement.
The Wild Sheep Foundation has raised over $70 million for conservation efforts in the last decade.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in introducing new hunters to the community and ensuring the continuation of hunting traditions.
The hunting community is characterized by strong relationships and a sense of family among its members.
The transformative experiences of participants in programs like Women Hunt highlight the impact of mentorship and community support.
Hunting is not just a sport; it involves hard work, dedication, and a deep connection to nature.
The Wild Sheep Foundation emphasizes inclusivity and welcomes all individuals interested in conservation and hunting.
Gray Thornton's personal journey into hunting began with a mentor who guided him through the early stages of his hunting career.
The future of the Wild Sheep Foundation looks bright with ongoing planning for the 50th anniversary Sheep Show.

Titles

Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation
The Journey of Gray Thornton

Chapters

00:00 The Aftermath of Sheep Show
07:23 Gray Thornton's Journey in Conservation
15:39 From Corporate to Conservation: A Career Shift
21:50 Building a Community: The Wild Sheep Foundation
29:53 The Impact of Membership and Fundraising
35:52 The Cultural Side of Hunting
47:07 The Impact of Mentorship
49:42 Memorable Hunting Experiences
01:06:30 The Challenges and Rewards of Hunting
01:09:48 The Power of Partnership in Conservation

Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the world of hunting through the eyes of Brenda Weatherby, a woman who transformed from a complete novice to a passionate hunter. Brenda shares her inspiring journey of embracing the wilderness, mastering hunting gear, and cooking her family delicious meals using wild game. 

In this episode, Brenda candidly discusses her initial fears and challenges as she ventured into the backcountry for her first hunts. She reveals how she overcame these obstacles, learned to process wild game like a pro, and balanced her newfound passion with family, faith, and a busy lifestyle. Brenda's story is a powerful reminder that anyone can learn, grow, and thrive in the wild, regardless of where they start.

Listeners will gain practical tips for beginners on gear selection, safety measures, and the mental shift required to succeed in the field. Brenda also highlights the importance of community and mentorship, emphasizing how hunting with experienced friends and supporting each other can accelerate confidence and skills.

Discover the science of aging and processing meat, best practices for preparing wild game, and Brenda's favorite recipes that make each harvest as delicious as it is meaningful. Whether you're considering your first hunt or looking to sharpen your skills, Brenda's honest stories and practical advice make this episode a must-listen.

takeaways

• Hanging meat for optimal tenderness is crucial.
• Cooking wild game requires specific techniques and tools.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in becoming a successful hunter.
• Experiencing nature can lead to personal growth and healing.
• Social media can create pressure but also opportunities for authenticity.
• Cooking with wild game can be a rewarding experience.
• The journey of hunting is about learning and growing.
• Family involvement enhances the hunting experience.
• It's important to prioritize gear and preparation for hunting.
• Mistakes in hunting are part of the learning process.

Follow Brenda at: 
@brendaweatherby
https://weatherby.com/author/brenda-weatherby/

In this engaging episode of the Ignite podcast, host Dana Dykema welcomes Rebecca Jones, a passionate advocate for hunting and conservation. Despite initial technical difficulties, the conversation unfolds with warmth and enthusiasm as they discuss Rebecca's journey from a novice to a seasoned hunter. Rebecca shares her experiences of hunting across continents, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and community in the hunting world. She highlights her involvement with organizations like the Dallas Safari Club and Her Upland, which focus on education and conservation. The discussion also touches on the significance of understanding the food chain and the value of public lands. Rebecca's dedication to teaching her daughter about hunting and conservation is evident, as she recounts their shared adventures and the life-changing impact of these experiences. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with the outdoors and embrace the opportunities for learning and growth that hunting provides.

You can follow Rebecca on Instagram at @jonesingtogetoutisde

In this engaging episode of the Ignite Podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with Maddie Richards from the Wild Sheep Foundation. They delve into Maddie's journey from an accidental podcast host to a passionate advocate for hunting and conservation. Maddie shares her experiences managing the Less Than One Club and her unique role at the Wild Sheep Foundation, highlighting the importance of community and mentorship in the hunting world. The conversation also touches on the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with a love for the outdoors, as Maddie recounts her adventures in solo hunting and the lessons learned along the way. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that celebrates the spirit of adventure and the power of storytelling in the wild.

Join us on an exhilarating journey with Dan Cabela, Renée Thornton, and Dana Dykema as they delve into the heart of wildlife conservation and the profound impact of hunting on ecosystems. In this episode, Dan shares a captivating story of two whitetail bucks locked in a dramatic struggle, highlighting the unpredictable nature of life on a ranch. The conversation unfolds to explore the legacy of the Cabela family, renowned for their contributions to hunting and conservation. Renée and Dana engage Dan in a heartfelt discussion about the influence of his parents, particularly his mother's late-blooming passion for hunting and her role in inspiring women in the field. The episode also touches on the groundbreaking "24 Lions" project, showcasing the family's commitment to reintroducing wildlife to their natural habitats. With insights into the challenges and triumphs of conservation efforts, this episode is a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging the gap between hunters and non-hunters. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that celebrates the beauty of nature and the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our planet's wildlife.

 In this engaging episode of the Ignite podcast, host Dana Dykema asks Renée Thornton to recap her inspiring journey of becoming an adult onset hunter and share the Genesis of the Wild Sheep Foundation's Women Hunt program. Renée shares her personal story of transitioning navigating from a corporate life in Calgary to urban North America while embracing hunting as a means to source humane and ethical protein. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of entering the hunting world later in life, including overcoming fears and self doubt and navigating the rigorous process of becoming a licensed firearm owner in Canada.

 In the first episode of the Ignite podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with Jennifer Loree, a skilled welder turned artist, to explore her fascinating journey from the trades to the art world. Jennifer shares her experiences growing up in Alberta, her initial foray into welding, and how she discovered her passion for creating metal art. The conversation delves into the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field and how she overcame them to carve out a niche for herself in the art community.

Jennifer discusses the pivotal moments that led to her success, including her viral social media posts and her involvement with the Wild Sheep Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in her journey, highlighting how connections within the hunting and conservation communities have supported her artistic endeavors. The episode also touches on the broader themes of creativity, resilience, and the value of pursuing one's passions despite societal expectations.

Listeners will be inspired by Jennifer's story of transformation and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with metal art. This episode is a testament to the power of creativity and the impact of following one's dreams.

To follow Jen on Instagram: 
@jenloreeofficial
@coalhouseofficial
Website: www.metalmonekydesignco.com

It's time to launch the Ignite Podcast! This is a brand new production with the Wild Sheep Foundation and the Women Hunt program. 
We'll be talking to conservationists, adventurers, trailblazers, leaders and many other incredible people with amazing stories to tell. Join us as we hear from voices from around the world.