In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, host Ryan Uffens sits down with legendary mule deer hunter Marlon Holden, known online as The Gray Light Hunter. Marlon shares the mindset and discipline behind chasing mule deer deep in the high country where oxygen is scarce, storms roll fast, and only the most determined men endure. Together, Ryan and Marlon dive into what it means to do hard things, build a life of freedom, and live with intention.

They talk about sacrifice, faith, and the spiritual connection between man, the mountain, and the hunt. Marlon opens up about his evolution from a boat captain to one of the most respected bowhunters in the West, his views on masculinity in a soft world, and his new ventures including the Gray Light App and a technical mountain apparel line designed for serious hunters.

Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry hunter or just beginning your journey, this conversation will inspire you to push harder, think bigger, and chase your passion with purpose.

Key Takeaways

• Doing Hard Things Builds Grit: Marlon discusses how modern life has softened men — and why enduring difficulty in the mountains restores purpose and strength.
• Faith and the Hunt: The power of gratitude, reverence for the animal, and the spiritual bond that comes from taking a life to feed your family.
• Mindset Over Circumstance: How deliberate choices and self-belief can turn dreams into a lifestyle of freedom and adventure.
• Preparation and Perseverance: Physical readiness, altitude training, and mental discipline are what separate quitters from killers.
• Legacy and Creation: From the Gray Light App to his new technical apparel brand, Marlon shows how art, business, and hunting can merge into one calling.

Follow Marlon Holden

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graylighthunter

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Ryan sits down with Utah elk hunter Ashton Oborn to swap storm-soaked mountain stories, hard-won lessons, and one unforgettable redemption bull. The two met at Hunt Expo, later linked up with mutual acquaintance Dustin Green and finally got boots on the same ridge where weather, fog, and blown-out switchbacks tested every plan. Ashton traces his family’s 20+ years in the area, from his youth-tag growing pains to the day he dropped his biggest bull with a .270 pump-action, open sights. Together, he and Ryan break down reading fresh sign, calling nuances, swirling winds in burned timber, and the painful truth that sometimes bulls “talk” but won’t play. There’s camp comedy too with zero sleep, bad walkies, and a lost iPhone somehow recovered on a rockslide, plus a nod to horses and mules as the ultimate backcountry cheat code. They close on passing it forward: helping others tag out, getting kids on youth tags, and Ryan’s resolve to notch his first big-game kill on the extended season.

Key Takeaways:

• Weather windows matter: big rains/fog can light elk activity, but also wreck access and visibility.
• Stay when you strike sound: if a canyon has a talking bull, don’t leave; let patience beat panic.
• Sign literacy: fresh droppings, rubs, and that unmistakable elk smell can outscore glassing.
• Wind in burns: regrowth + deadfall = elk highways and brutal, swirling thermals.
• Calling discipline: match the mood; soft cow sounds can keep a cautious bull around.
• Redemption hunt: Ashton’s best bull came close and fast be ready for short, thick-timber shots.
• Community > ego: helping a buddy tag can be just as sweet; take the kids early and often.

Follow Ashton Oborn:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashtonoborn/

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Call to action: If you’re grinding your first elk season (or returning for redemption), share this episode with a hunting buddy and drop your “stay-in-the-canyon” story in the comments. Rate/review to help keep Hunt Stealth the fastest-growing hunting podcast in the nation. Stay safe, and God bless.

Discount Codes: 

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Jeff Barlow... better known online as Nimrod Outdoors joins Ryan to talk family, faith, and the kind of hunts that turn into lifelong stories. Jeff shares how a joking nudge from his wife and a verse about the “mighty hunter” Nimrod sparked a 15-year digital journal with his seven kids, documenting everything from first tags to pack-outs. He tells the incredible Depression-era tale of his grandfather’s 34-inch cactus buck that fed the family and, decades later, found its way back home. We go deep on elk and mule deer strategy, why bugles in bow range raise the neck hairs, and Jeff’s wild Wasatch opener where a missed arrow turned into an eight-foot shot on a six-point bull. He also walks through his once-in-a-lifetime Utah moose hunt snow tracks, near misses, and the final pack-out with friends.

Jeff breaks down Sneek Tec: wind checkers, cover-scent sprays (sage, cedar, juniper), and “sneek boots” that quiet your steps plus how these tools buy you the 20–30 seconds that matter. We finish with advice for new hunters: enjoy the ride, put meat in the freezer, and don’t chase someone else’s score chase experiences with the people you love.

If you enjoyed this episode: follow, share it with a buddy, and leave a rating. Stay safe, and God bless.

Takeaways:

Origin of Nimrod Outdoors: A nudge from Jeff’s wife + the Old Testament “mighty hunter” = a 15-year family hunting journal across Facebook/IG/YouTube.

Legacy Story: Jeff’s grandpa’s 1934 cactus buck fed the family during the Depression; decades later the antlers were returned to the family—now hanging on Jeff’s wall.

Close-Quarters Elk: On Wasatch opener, a miss turned into an 8-foot archery shot on a six-point—proof that persistence (and good positioning) pays.

Moose Tag Marathon: Snow tracking, public-land chaos, two misses with a bow, then a successful rifle finish—highlighting patience, adaptation, and teamwork.

Sneek Tech Breakdown: Wind checker + cover-scent (sage/cedar/juniper) + quiet “sneek boots” to reduce foot noise—tools aimed at smell, sound, and sight to buy crucial seconds.

Why We Hunt: The therapy of mountains—bugles at bow range, rain-washed pines, and shared hardship—matters as much as (or more than) punching tags.

Advice to New Hunters: Enjoy the ride. Don’t chase scores; chase experiences, meat in the freezer, and memories—especially with your kids.

Follow Jeff Barlow:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nimrodoutdoors/

Website: https://sneektec.com/

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Ryan sits down with entrepreneur and charter captain Anthony Williams for a wide-ranging conversation that runs from marlin on blue water to bulls on steep ridges. Anthony shares how growing up in rural North Carolina shaped his outdoor grit, why marlin fishing feels like hunting, and how a brutal first day in elk country rewired his training. He breaks down a simple but savage prep plan (hill repeats on a bike + max-incline treadmill “climb the mountain”), talks bow vs. rifle strategy when learning a new place, and opens up about access, public lands, and representation in hunting.

 We also preview Anthony’s stacked season: Roosevelt elk in Oregon, Alaska fishing + Yukon moose off a gravel bar, New Mexico elk (Unit 5B), Ohio whitetail redemption, and a Marlin bender in Mag Bay. 

Anthony’s closing mantra is classic: “Get your ass up and do it.” Don’t wait.

Key Takeaways:

Train like the mountain: Crush hills on a bike, coast to let lactate build, then repeat; add max-incline treadmill “mountain climbs” for real-deal elevation legs.

Bow vs. rifle with intent: Use a rifle to learn brand-new country; return with a bow once you understand terrain, animals, and access.

Public lands matter: Access is opportunity, especially for newcomers and underrepresented hunters. Stay vigilant about policies that threaten it.

Alaska is calling: OTC opportunities won’t last forever, if it’s on your list and you have the skills, go sooner than later.

Bias toward action: Life’s short... stop waiting for “perfect timing.” Plan, prepare, and go.

Follow Anthony Williams:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/completeoutdoors

Website: https://captanthony.com/

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In this conversation, Ryan Uffens and Cody Griffin discuss various aspects of the archery industry, including personal connections, the role of customer service, product innovations at Easton, and the importance of coaching for beginners. They also share insights on hunting experiences in North Carolina, the impact  COVID-19 had on the archery market, and the community culture within archery shops.

Takeaways

• Cody Griffin enjoys a multifaceted role at Easton.
• Customer service is crucial in distinguishing archery shops.
• Easton's new product, the 5-0, has been a huge success.
• Community and culture are vital in archery shops.
• Pro shops serve as community hubs for archery enthusiasts.

Follow Cody Griffin:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beardsbowsandbarbells

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In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Jeremiah Plyer, co-owner of Wilde Arrow Archery in Centerville, Utah. The conversation ranges from the importance of location in retail success to the frustrations of local politics, rising taxes, and the lack of government transparency.

Jeremiah shares his journey into archery from struggling as a teenager with no mentor, to building a career in one of the top pro shops in the country. He emphasizes the difference between a basic archery shop and a true pro shop, and why personalized service and attention to detail keep customers coming back.

The two dive into the culture at Wilde Arrow, where customers aren’t just transactions—they’re part of a community. Jeremiah explains his philosophy of “planting seeds” with every customer interaction, knowing that good service pays off long-term.

The highlight of the episode is Jeremiah’s once-in-a-lifetime desert bighorn sheep hunt with a bow. After 13 years of building points, he drew the coveted tag, navigated the intimidating terrain of Utah’s Dirty Devil unit, and successfully harvested a ram in just five days. The hunt was captured on film by Brad Hunt and produced by Brian Call of Gritty Films, inspiring many to consider pursuing desert sheep.

Whether you’re an aspiring bowhunter, a seasoned pro, or just love a good hunting story, this episode delivers insights, laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication it takes to succeed in both business and the field.

Watch the hunt film: Search “Wilde Arrow Desert Sheep Gritty” on YouTube.

Visit Wilde Arrow: For expert bow setup, gear, and a welcoming hunting community, stop by their Centerville location—especially in October or November for the best service and deals.

5 Takeaways from the Episode

Location Matters in Retail – Jeremiah credits Wild Arrow’s success partly to its easy freeway access, drawing customers from multiple states. Convenience often beats square footage.

Service Creates Loyalty – The shop’s “white glove” approach spending the time to answer every question turns first-time customers into lifelong bowhunters.

Community Over Transactions – Wild Arrow fosters a culture where hunters can hang out, swap stories, and blow off steam, creating a place people want to return to.

Persistence Pays in Hunting – Jeremiah drew his desert bighorn sheep tag after 13 years of applying, proving the value of strategic point building and patience.

Pro Shops Make a Difference – The expertise, mentorship, and proper setup at a pro shop can mean the difference between frustration and falling in love with archery.

Follow Jeremiah Plyer:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildearrowarchery/

Watch Wilde Arrow Desert Sheep Hunt on YouTube

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Our guest on this episode is a powerhouse in the outdoor and business space, he's also a master of cutting through the noise.

Joining me is Baker Levitt Director of Strategic Relations at Black Rifle Coffee Company. He’s helped shape one of America’s most influential lifestyle brands, connecting hunters, veterans, and freedom-loving folks through powerful storytelling, sharp strategy, and unapologetic culture. From real estate and media to political consulting and crisis PR, Baker’s got his boots in every arena and he’s not afraid to speak his mind.

In this episode, we go deep. We talk about building brand loyalty, why simplicity beats complexity in business, and how hunting shaped his journey from chasing elk in Utah to giant Eland in Africa. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a patriot, or just someone looking to live with purpose, this one’s going to hit home.

🔑 Key Takeaways from the Episode with Baker Levitt

Build Culture, Not Just Products - Black Rifle Coffee succeeded by creating a brand people wanted to belong to. It wasn’t just about selling coffee it was about building a tribe of like-minded patriots, hunters, and veterans.

Simplicity Wins in Business and Life - Whether it’s PR crisis management or elk hunting, Baker preaches one principle: keep it simple. Most problems are made worse by overthinking; the right answer is often the obvious one.

Brand Voice Matters - A brand isn’t just a logo it’s the way you speak, act, and show up. Black Rifle's unapologetic voice resonated deeply with its audience and helped shape a billion-dollar company.

The Power of Serving Veterans - Baker emphasized the responsibility not just the marketing value of supporting the veteran community. Real impact means real cash, real conversations, and real service.

Hard Work Meets Opportunity = Luck - Baker’s success in hunting and business didn’t come from luck alone. It came from preparation, consistency, and taking the shot when the moment was right.

New Hunters: Just Go Fail - His advice to beginners? Get off the couch, go make mistakes, and learn by doing. Don’t chase perfection chase experience. And when it’s hard, remember: “You can’t kill anything from the couch.”

Africa is a Hunter’s Paradise - Baker shares why hunting in Africa is unlike anywhere else diversity, freedom, and the sheer wildness of it all. It’s not about inches; it’s about the experience.

Execute or Get Out of the Way - In business, he values execution above everything else. Ideas are cheap. People who can get things done are irreplaceable.

Follow Baker Leavitt:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbaker/

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Ryan Uffens sits down with Braxton Hamilton and Storie Ratcliff to unpack one of the most surreal and extreme hunts imaginable... a sanctioned mountain goat eradication in Grand Teton National Park. What started as a controversial government program turned into the chance of a lifetime: hunting within the park boundaries, in winter conditions, with minimal backup, in terrain that tested every ounce of grit they had.

From hiking 9 miles through two feet of snow just to get to camp, to climbing sheer cliffs in negative 26-degree temps, this story is a full-throttle blend of backcountry hardship, government red tape, and raw mountain adventure.

You'll hear about failed motors, sketchy cliffs, ranger warnings, and near-death climbs. all ending in the memory of a hunt so wild, no amount of money could ever buy it.

🔥 5 Key Takeaways:

Once-in-a-Lifetime Hunt Inside a National Park - Through a rare Park Service program, Braxton, Storie, and Josh got to hunt mountain goats inside Grand Teton National Park something few hunters will ever experience.

Brutal Conditions, Real Consequences - Negative 26°F temperatures, deep snow, and rugged terrain turned this hunt into an extreme survival challenge. The rangers made it clear: rescue could take 48–72 hours, if at all.

Not a Slaughter But a Hard-Earned Hunt - Despite the goal of mass removal, this wasn’t easy. They earned every opportunity through brutal climbs and calculated decision-making in some of the most remote terrain imaginable.

Government Red Tape Meets Mountain Men Tenacity - They had to fight just to be allowed to camp in the park proving their qualifications, their gear, and their grit to skeptical rangers.

Memories Etched in Snow and Stone - From high-elevation goat kills to beaching a dead boat on Jackson Lake, their stories are the kind that stick forever and they got invited back the next year to do it again.

Follow Braxton Hamilton and Storie Ratcliff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storie_ratcliff_wy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brax_hamilton

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Special Offers: 

Visit https://www.muleymaniacs.com and enter Promo Code: STEALTH20 for 20% off

In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan sits down with 7th-generation mountain man, lifelong hunter, and North Carolina game warden Nathan Cox. From chasing rabbits with his grandpa’s beagles in the Blue Ridge Mountains to busting poachers by night using aircraft and decoys, Nathan brings a wealth of hard-earned wisdom and gritty backwoods experience.

Nathan shares what it means to grow up immersed in hunting culture, how his law enforcement background led him to become a game warden, and why intent matters when it comes to enforcement. He delivers gold for new hunters especially around tagging mistakes, how to properly validate your kill, and why "middle of the middle" is the shot you want on a black bear.

They dive into:

• Aircraft raids on spotlighting poachers
• Saskatchewan whitetails and the power of patience
• Bear hunting in North Carolina (yes, where the 800 lb giants roam)
• Bowhunting ethics and lessons from blown shots
• Why staying humble and finding mentors makes all the difference

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just picked up a tag, this episode delivers unforgettable stories, practical advice, and a clear reminder: hunt hard, hunt smart, and respect the process.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Intent Matters More Than Mistakes - As a game warden, Nathan emphasizes that not all violations are equal. Honest mistakes—like not notching a tag properly—can often be handled with education, not punishment. Intent is what separates a poacher from a new hunter who just needs guidance.

Know Your Tagging System - Nathan sees tons of violations simply due to confusion around tagging and reporting. He urges hunters to study their state’s regulations (especially terminology) and use available tools like mobile apps to validate harvests at the site of the kill. Ignoring the rules can cost you a year of hunting privileges.

Don’t Judge Whitetail by Body Size Alone - In places like Saskatchewan, the body size of whitetails can throw you off. A 160” buck might look like a 120” if you’re used to mountain deer. Nathan spent four days glassing before tagging a monster, proving patience and pre-hunt scouting are critical.

Black Bear Shot Placement: Aim 'Middle of the Middle' - Black bear vitals sit farther back than a whitetail’s. Nathan advises aiming 3–4 inches behind the front shoulder (middle of the middle). Even big calibers like a .300 Win Mag can fail if shot placement is off. A well-placed .270 dropped his bear in 20 yards.

Stay Humble & Find a Hunting Mentor - Nathan’s top advice to new hunters: stay humble and surround yourself with people more experienced than you. Every hunter has something to offer—whether it’s woodsmanship, tech skills, or calling knowledge. Respect earns mentorship.

Follow Nathan Cox:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridge_sportsman/

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Ryan sits down with Wyoming-based hunter and HuntQuarters co-founder Matt Tillotson for a raw, wide-ranging conversation on high-country discipline, mental toughness, and the real grind behind consistent success in the field.

Matt shares the backstory behind launching HuntQuarters, a consulting platform for Western hunters that offers local, boots-on-the-ground insights across states like Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah. From working through target panic to harvesting two exceptional bucks in a single season, Matt opens up about the relentless preparation required physically, mentally, and emotionally to perform when it matters.

Together, Ryan and Matt dive deep into the psychology of the hunt, the value of discomfort, and how self-discipline forged in the mountains spills over into every part of life. This one isn’t just about filling tags it’s about becoming harder to kill, harder to stop, and more equipped for anything life throws your way.

🏹 5 Key Takeaways:

The Mind Will Break Before the Body -Matt and Ryan dive into how your brain sets artificial limits and how learning to push past that “regulator” is key in both hunting and life.

Success Starts with Self-Awareness - At HuntQuarters, Matt customizes advice based on personality types. Whether you’re a marathoner or new to discomfort, success starts by knowing your own limits and strengths.

Two Bucks, One Breakthrough - Matt harvested two great bucks in 2023 but the real win was overcoming years of target panic. His Wyoming shot at 60 yards in wind was a personal turning point.

Training Transforms Lives - From back spasms to IT band pain, both Matt and Ryan share how putting on a heavy pack and embracing the suck has transformed their bodies and their confidence.

Hunting is a Life Upgrade - For both men, the pursuit of hunting has reshaped their discipline, fitness, family life, and mindset. The side effects? Lower cholesterol, tighter pants, and a sharper edge in every area of life.

Follow Matt Tillotson:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matt_tillotson/

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