Madcore Hunter Podcast

In this episode, we're joined by a longtime friend and fellow outdoorsman, Dalton Drexler—better known to most as Drex. We've known each other since our college days, where we first connected over a shared passion for hunting and the great outdoors. Over the years, Drex has become not only a close friend but also one of the most dedicated and successful hunters I know.

Born and raised in the Midwest, Drex has been hunting nearly his entire life. From chasing whitetails with his dad to strategizing hunts with friends, he's built a deep well of knowledge and experience that spans generations. In our conversation, Drex shares what it’s been like hunting across two different states each season, the unique challenges and advantages that come with it, and how he’s developed strategies to consistently increase his odds of success.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and tips that’ll help sharpen your skills and maybe even inspire your next hunt.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of hunting with mules. Our guest, Dave Helton, has been using mules in the backcountry for over 20 years and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and stories to the conversation.

Dave walks us through what makes mules such valuable partners in the field, especially in rugged and remote terrain where horses or ATVs might fall short. He shares what to look for in a quality mule, common mistakes first-time buyers make, and the kind of commitment mule ownership requires—not just during hunting season, but year-round.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to expand your approach or someone curious about incorporating mules into your outdoor lifestyle, this episode offers practical tips, personal insights, and a look into the strong bond that can form between hunter and mule.

In this episode, Danny rejoins us for a wide-ranging discussion on gear, comfort, and reliability in the outdoors. We kick things off with some talk about eBikes and mules—two very different, unique modes of transportation—and how each plays a role in today's hunting and wilderness travel.

From there, we dive into the main topic: finding the right boot for your needs. We cover everything from brand recommendations and models that have stood the test of time, to personal experiences that have shaped our preferences. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, hiker, or just getting started, there's a lot to consider when it comes to selecting a solid pair of boots.

We talk about key factors like fit, purpose, terrain, and the inevitable break-in period. Even with a high-quality, well-reviewed boot, the difference between good and great often comes down to the small things—like proper insoles, socks, and boot care routines. These small adjustments can have a major impact on performance and long-term comfort.

Tune in for honest opinions, lessons learned, and practical advice to help you avoid common mistakes and make sure your feet are taken care of—mile after mile.

In this episode, we’re joined by longtime friend Reid Strobl. We dive into Reid’s journey as a hunter and how those experiences have helped shape him into the man he is today. Over the years, Reid has not only grown in his skills and knowledge of the outdoors but also in his faith. He now shares that faith with others through archery, mentorship, and hospitality.

Our conversation covers a wide range of topics—from hunting and fishing to chasing whitetails and life lessons learned in the woods. Reid brings a wealth of outdoor experience to the table, and no matter where you are in your own journey, there’s something valuable to take away from this episode

In this episode, we dive into Danny’s journey through multiple heart surgeries and the many obstacles he’s had to overcome. He shares how hunting has been a powerful source of motivation—pushing him to recover, get back outside, and keep moving forward.

Danny’s passion for hunting has taken him to incredible places, both physically and mentally. In many ways, it’s what keeps his heart beating strong.

Whether you're facing health challenges of your own or just need a reminder to make the most of the time God has given you, this episode is deeply inspiring. It’s a true testament to Danny’s determination, resilience, and love for the hunt.

In this episode, Danny and Zach dive deeper into their hunting adventures, sharing stories from their latest mountain hunts and reflecting on their past successes together.

These two veteran hunters bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and camaraderie to the table, making every conversation both insightful and entertaining. From tracking game in rugged terrain to the lessons learned through years in the wilderness, they open up about what it really takes to be successful in the field.

Expect great storytelling, laughs, and a few surprising moments as Danny and Zach relive their most memorable hunts. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just love a good story, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we take a deep dive with Michael, Danny, and Eli into the world of arrow building. We discuss why the fine details matter and just how far you can take the process of building one perfect arrow.

Whether you shoot a couple of times a year or every day, this episode is packed with valuable information. Even if you don’t build your own arrows, we cover the right questions to ask at your local pro shop or online store—tips that might just give you the edge you're looking for this fall.

In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Michael Obendorf back to the podcast. Michael is well-known for his deep expertise in archery gear, especially when it comes to setting up bows for peak performance. Each year, he takes on the task of setting up multiple bows, constantly experimenting and fine-tuning to push the limits of what his equipment can do.During our conversation, Michael shares his insights and advice with Danny, walking through his approach to selecting the right arrows, dialing in bow tuning, and optimizing performance across the board. Whether you're a seasoned archer or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable tips and practical knowledge that can help take your setup to the next level.

In this episode, we dive into Eli’s latest experience at the Total Archery Challenge in Pennsylvania. We break down what makes these events so valuable for archers of all levels, highlighting what to look for if you're planning to attend one. Eli also shares insights into some exciting new products he came across, the standout vendors at the event, and a few of the big names in the archery world who made an appearance. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting started, there's something in this episode for you.

In this episode, we introduce a long-time member of Madcore, Rob Drake. Rob has been hunting with fellow Madcore members for years and brings a wealth of experience to the table. He shares a variety of stories and hunting strategies, including his recent food plotting efforts in Illinois and the new approaches he's taking to become more successful in all aspects of hunting.