#107: Brittany Redden is an archery hunter, mom, instructional designer, and children's book author who believes some of the best lessons in life are learned outside.

Based in Oklahoma, Brittany spends her free time hunting elk, deer, and turkeys, fishing at the lake, camping, and exploring the outdoors with her family. In this episode of Reckoning, we talk about her journey into hunting and archery, chasing elk, and what it looks like to continue pursuing adventure while raising a family.

We also dive into motherhood and Brittany's mission to raise good, happy, healthy daughters by using the outdoors as a natural classroom—giving them space to learn, explore, get dirty, and see the word of God in action.

That same mission led Brittany to become a children's book author. Through her hunting and camping-themed books, including her latest, Autumn's First Turkey, she blends adventure and education to introduce kids to hunting, nature, and the lessons that can only be learned outside.

This conversation is about more than hunting. It's about motherhood, raising capable kids, continuing to chase your own adventures, and passing a love of the outdoors on to the next generation.

Pull up a chair around the fire—welcome to Reckoning.

Connect with Brittany:

Amazon Author Page: https://amazon.com/author/brittanyredden

Signed Books & Design Services: https://brittanyredden.square.site/

Instagram: @mrsredden92

TikTok: @bredden19

Chapters:

00:32 Introduction to Brittany Redden and Bow Hunting 00:57 Hunting Experiences and Family Life 01:47 Becoming a Children's Book Author and Outdoor Appreciation 01:47 Connecting through social media as women hunters 03:36 Getting started with archery: tips and encouragement 07:35 Evolution of bows and shooting techniques 11:27 Hunting in Oklahoma and Colorado: landscape differences 13:26 First successful elk hunt in Colorado 16:29 Challenges of high-altitude hunting 18:42 Family and hunting: involving kids in the outdoors 22:23 Chasing elk: a detailed hunt story 28:25 Hunting tips for beginners and gear advice 29:41 Maybe edit out 29:45 The Thrill of the Hunt 36:11 The Emotional Moment of Success 41:16 The Challenge of Packing Out 44:01 The Aftermath: Dental Drama 45:15 The Pursuit of Mule Deer 51:35 Balancing Family and Hunting 52:56 Meal Prep for Outdoor Adventures 57:56 Incorporating Kids into Outdoor Life 01:03:05 The Journey of Writing Children's Books 01:10:06 Understanding Nature Through a Child's Eyes 01:11:42 Identity Shifts: Hunter, Mother, Author 01:13:51 Processing Game: Tips and Tricks 01:23:36 Embracing the Chaos of Outdoor Parenting 01:25:14 Future Adventures and Book Releases

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

FIRST LITE for the best hunting pants, shirts, jackets, coats and more use code: RECKONING15 for 15% OFF HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

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#106 - I'm joined by Liz Palmer-Bastian, founder of The Chosen Connection, a Utah nonprofit dedicated to supporting bereaved children and grieving families through connection, community, and mentorship.

Liz shares her family's journey through profound loss, how grief reshaped her life, and the inspiration behind creating The Chosen Connection so that no child has to navigate grief alone. We also talk about motherhood, blended family life, healing, honoring loved ones, finding purpose after loss, and what grieving children need most from the adults around them.

Whether you're walking through grief yourself, supporting someone you love, or looking for hope in a difficult season, this conversation offers compassion, encouragement, and practical insight.

Connect with Liz: https://www.instagram.com/ms.lizpalmer/

https://thechosenconnection.org/

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

00:32 Reconnecting and Reminiscing 02:20 From City Girl to Outdoor Enthusiast 05:33 First Outdoor Experiences and Lessons Learned 08:23 The Impact of Outdoor Activities on Relationships 11:24 Transitioning to Small Town Life 14:18 Family, Tradition, and the Outdoors 17:23 Tragedy Strikes: A Life-Changing Accident 24:14 The Impact of Sudden Loss 33:52 Navigating Grief and Practical Challenges 39:58 Building Community Through Shared Experiences 48:51 The Importance of Recovery and Energy 49:48 Introducing New Products: Clear Protein and Hydration Solutions 57:01 Creating a Legacy of Support 59:07 Expanding Community Connections 01:01:07 Goals for Growth and Outreach 01:04:45 Navigating Life After Loss 01:08:18 Embracing New Adventures 01:15:35 Building a Supportive Network

EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

FIRST LITE for the best hunting pants, shirts, jackets, coats and more use code: RECKONING15 for 15% OFF HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#105: What happens when one decision changes the trajectory of your life?

In this episode of Reckoning, I sit down with James Stone to talk about his incredible journey from addiction and unhealthy habits to living with purpose, discipline, and intention.

James shares the honest story of the night he decided enough was enough, how he began his fitness journey with nothing more than an old tire, a hand-me-down treadmill, and a pull-up bar on his front porch, and how that decision ultimately led him to win the MTN OPS Conquer Challenge, day hike Mount Whitney, complete ultra races and rucks, and build a life he's proud of.

We also dive into: • Growing up in Texas and being introduced to the outdoors • Hunting, fitness, and fatherhood • His sobriety journey and navigating the social side of giving up alcohol • Building discipline when motivation fades • His community, The Forged Union, and helping other men become stronger in every area of life

James was incredibly open throughout this conversation, and I'm so grateful he trusted us with his story. Whether you're working toward better health, considering cutting back on alcohol, chasing a goal, or simply looking for encouragement, I think you'll find something in this episode that resonates.

Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesstone1933 and www.theforgedunion.com

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:36 Transition to Hunting and Archery

11:41 Life Changes and the Impact of Alcohol

14:44 Struggles with Addiction and Family Dynamics

17:29 Turning Point and Journey to Sobriety

20:31 Health and Fitness Transformation

23:31 Navigating Social Situations Post-Sobriety

26:29 Reflections on Family and Relationships

29:28 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

30:34 Building a Home Gym and Fitness Journey

34:11 Diet Changes and Alcohol Impact

35:49 Meal Prep Strategies for Success

36:55 Endurance Training and New Goals

38:44 Winning the Mountain Ops Challenge

40:58 Summiting Mount Whitney

45:18 Transitioning to Ultra Marathons

46:14 The Challenge of Trail Running

54:17 Evolving Training and Aging

57:08 Discipline and Motivation in Fitness

58:01 Understanding ADHD and Personal Growth

59:23 Supporting Loved Ones in Recovery

01:00:45 The Role of Honesty in Relationships

01:01:36 Emotional Support in Health Journeys

01:03:19 Building a Community for Men

01:04:29 The Forge Union: A New Initiative

01:06:23 Navigating Personal Change and Growth

01:10:00 Bucket List Adventures and Hunting Dreams

01:18:22 Favorite Wild Game Recipes and Snacks

01:21:28 Current Challenges and Future Aspirations

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

FIRST LITE for the best hunting pants, shirts, jackets, coats and more use code: RECKONING15 for 15% OFF HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#104: What happens when your entire life changes in an instant?

In this episode of Reckoning, I'm sitting down with Hunter Rasmussen—an outdoorsman, athlete, and speaker whose life was forever changed by a hunting accident that led to the loss of his leg.

But this story isn't about loss… it's about purpose.

Hunter shares:

• The day of the accident and how it unfolded

• The moments that saved his life

• His battle through recovery, surgeries, and identity loss

• How faith carried him through his darkest moments

• What it's really like getting back into hunting and the outdoors

• Lessons on resilience, mindset, and starting over

We also talk about:

• Balancing sports and hunting growing up

• Mental health, routine, and staying grounded

• Practical hunting safety (this part matters)

• Why the outdoors is still his therapy

This episode is for anyone who's:

• Going through a hard season

• Trying to find purpose after pain

• Balancing life, family, and the outdoors

• Or just needs a reminder to keep going

Hunter's story is proof that your comeback can be stronger than your setback.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Hunter's Journey 06:53 The Healing Process and Identity Reconstruction 30:29 Finding Purpose and Sharing the Story 33:38 Adapting to the Outdoors Post-Accident 42:03 Looking Forward: Future Adventures in Nature 42:26 Safety First: Lessons Learned from a Hunting Accident 47:40 Mental Health and Resilience: Overcoming Life's Challenges 54:44 Fun and Food: Lighthearted Moments in Hunting 58:32 Closing Thoughts: Gratitude and Future Aspirations

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Follow Hunter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1_legged_hunter

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#103 - In this episode of the Reckoning Podcast, I'm sharing a real-life check-in on balancing motherhood, work, fitness, and staying mountain ready year-round.

We're talking:

• How I stay consistent with home workouts and strength training • Why being "mountain ready" isn't about perfection • Simple fitness routines for hunting season • Our go-to wild game Philly cheesesteak recipe (elk, venison, or steak) A High-protein, family-friendly meals from field to table

Plus, I answer your most common questions about balancing kids, hunting, and work — and how to stay motivated when you're exhausted.

And then… I share a powerful submission from Hunter Rasmussen (1_legged_hunter), whose story of losing his leg in a hunting accident and finding purpose through faith will stop you in your tracks.

This episode is about resilience. About preparation. About faith. About becoming stronger in body and spirit — no matter what season you're in.

Chapters:

00:00 Life Update: Moving and New Beginnings

06:03 Meal Prep and Family Cooking

38:45 Listener Q&A: Balancing Life and Work

42:39 Staying Motivated Through Challenges

44:29 Lessons Learned: Hunting and Business Insights

46:46 Finding Personal Time and Self-Care

49:51 Community Stories and Listener Engagement

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

Follow Us on Social:

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#102: In this episode of Reckoning, Britt sits down with returning guest Trev Trifaux of Compass Grid Labradors for an incredible recap of his unforgettable fall hunting season in Canada.

Over 57 days in the field, Trev filled 8 tags across multiple species—including elk, moose, black bear, cinnamon bear, whitetail deer, and more—using both archery and rifle.

Trev shares the full story behind:

• Bowhunting black bears at 17 yards

• Taking a moose at 72 yards with his bow

• Harvesting a cinnamon bear at 80 yards

• Tagging his first whitetail

• Pursuing elk and deer in remote terrain

• Balancing long hunts, travel, and recovery

• Preparing mentally and physically for extended seasons

• Learning long-distance shooting later in life

• Staying aligned with personal values in the hunting and outdoor industry

We also dive into how last year's experiences shaped this season's success, what techniques he changed, and how discipline, patience, and preparation helped him go farther and hunt longer than ever before.

This honest, real conversation also touches on brand alignment, content creation, and keeping the focus where it belongs—on ethical hunting, field care, and respect for the animal.

Plus, Britt and Trev catch up, reflect on past seasons, and share behind-the-scenes stories from life in the field.

If you love real hunting stories, bowhunting, western and Canadian big game adventures, and conversations about integrity in the outdoor space, this episode is for you.

Get the show notes HERE!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

02:04 The Hunting Journey Begins

04:50 Challenges and Triumphs in the Field

07:37 The Bear Hunt Experience

10:25 Reflections on Bear Hunting

13:18 Transitioning to Moose Hunting

16:08 The Moose Encounter and Shot

18:58 Post-Hunt Reflections and Meat Processing

21:32 The Cinnamon Bear and New Experiences

23:44 Choosing the Perfect Mount

26:17 The Joy of Taxidermy and Family

27:06 Hunting Challenges and Learning Experiences

29:04 The Thrill of the Hunt: Elk and Deer

32:40 Whitetail vs. Mule Deer: A Taste Test

36:02 Hunting Strategies and Lessons Learned

38:42 The Importance of Patience in Hunting

41:23 Tree Stand Adventures and Relationship Tests

46:06 The Elk Hunt: A Rewarding Experience

48:22 The Joy of the Hunt

51:12 Shooting Techniques and Equipment

55:37 Gear That Makes a Difference

57:22 Branding and Personal Values

01:02:29 Future Aspirations and Growth

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Follow Trev on Instagram

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

Looking for the best Christmas gift ideas for hunters? This episode breaks down outdoor-tested, hunter-approved gifts for him, her, and kids — including apparel, boots, knives, optics, wild game cooking gear, stocking stuffers, and budget-friendly options.

Whether you're shopping for a lifelong hunter, a new outdoorswoman, or kids who love getting outside, this guide is packed with real recommendations we use in the field. See and easily shop the full list HERE!

In this episode, I cover gift ideas like:

Ollin (code: Reckoning for 10% off)

FHF Gear bino harnesses & chest holsters Crispi boots First Lite apparel SheepFeet orthotics + Hideout Hoodie (code: Reckoning for 10% off) JetBoil + camp accessories Montana Knife Company MTN OPS performance essentials (code BRITT for 20% off) Kids hunting gear, calls, BB guns, backpacks & more Budget-friendly + stocking stuffer ideas AND unique, sentimental outdoor gifts they'll actually use

Plus: nutrition picks, hunting lifestyle gifts, and options for the glam girls who hunt.

This Christmas gift guide is perfect for: • Hunters who "already have everything" • Outdoorsmen & women • Homesteaders, hikers & anglers • Kids who love exploring • Families who want to get outside together

Chapters:

0:00 - Intro

49:00 - Product Flops & Final Thoughts

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

Follow Us on Social:

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#100: We're kicking off a new season of Reckoning with stories from the Utah General Archery Deer Hunt — from solo days in the mountains to family hunts and the lessons that come with both. Brittney shares how she juggles hunting season with mom life, creative work, and keeping meals wild and healthy.

Plus, she answers listener questions about finding balance between solo hunts and family hunts, staying grounded during busy seasons, and her favorite ways to cook wild game this fall.

Chapters:

0:00 - Intro

3:00 - What's to come

6:26 - Utah General Archery Deer hunt recap

9:08 - balancing kids sports and hunting

12:00 - solo hunting and reflections

15:50 - elk encounter

21:35 - Ad break: Ollin & MTN OPS

25:44 - Mom and son General Archery Deer hunt

30:15 - General Archery Deer hunt big target mule deer recap and finishing out the season

41:32 - Ad break: SheepFeet

43:50 - How our Utah hunting went all together

46:43 - What's to come this season

47:22 - Listener questions

49:09 - How do you balance hunting as family time versus personal time? I love taking my kids out, but sometimes I miss those quiet solo hunts.

53:41 - I've got a freezer full of venison and wild turkey, but I'm running out of ideas beyond the basics. What's one of your favorite creative or healthy wild game recipes?

57:00 - Final Thoughts

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#99 - Join me and my husband, Cody, for a raw, unfiltered, and laugh-filled conversation recorded right from camp during the opening weekend of the Utah Archery Deer Hunt. With the sound of aspen trees in the background, we share almost 20 years of hunting memories, adventures, and what it's really like to be a couple in the outdoors.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Our most frequently asked questions about hunting as a couple

• Our favorite moments on hunts together and lessons learned

• A little bit of "couples therapy" as we reflect on past hunts together 🤣

• Cody's powerful health and wellness journey over the last few years—and what has transformed for him in the past six months

• Why health and fitness matter for hunters in and out of the field

• Real talk about mindset, marriage, and outdoor life

Whether you're here for gear talk, relationship laughs, or inspiration for your own health journey, this episode delivers. It's a behind-the-scenes look at our life, our hunts, and what keeps us coming back to the mountains together.

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

Follow Us on Social:

Cody's IG

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.

#98 - In this episode of Reckoning, host Britt sits down with hunter and outdoorswoman Nicole Martinez to share a complete gear guide for female hunters. From layering systems and weather-specific apparel to backpacks, optics, and the small-but-critical accessories that make hunts more comfortable and successful, they cover it all. Learn how to choose hunting gear designed for women, what's worth the investment, and how to pack for different types of hunts. Plus, hear personal stories from the field, lessons learned from real hunting adventures, and how the right gear impacts safety, performance, and confidence. Whether you're a first-time hunter or a seasoned outdoorswoman looking to upgrade your setup, this episode is your ultimate resource.

Get our FAVORITE links, codes & more here! EPISODE MENTIONS:

Nicole's Tiktok

Nicole's Instagram

Invader Concepts Holster

Watch the show on YouTube HERE

Submit your favorites at thereckoningpodcast.com/submit

OLLIN for the best digiscoping systems out there use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

SHEEPFEET for custom orthotics, the best hunting shoe and the hideout hoodie use code: RECKONING for 10% OFF SHOP HERE

MTN OPS for the best supplements and gear. Use code BRITT for 20% OFF your order!

RUGGED ROAD COOLER GET 10% OFF your lightweight and organized cooler here or USE CODE: LONG

Have Reckoning create content for your brand, learn more HERE!

Follow Us on Social:

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Affiliate Disclaimer. Show Notes may contain affiliate links. If you click through my referral link, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting RECKONING LLC.