#022 What happens when a phone call about a hunting dog leads to lifelong friendship, a marriage, and a thriving business? Chase White, owner of Fowl Plains Outfitters in Great Bend, Kansas, joins Barton to unpack their decade-long journey from dog trainer and client to witnessing life's most profound moments together.

Chase shares the remarkable story of how his British Labrador Jet, purchased from Southern Oak Kennels, became the foundation for both his professional guiding career and his personal life. When Chase needed a steady, reliable hunting companion, he reached out to Barton—beginning a friendship that would see them through proposals, weddings, and the birth of Chase's son. The conversation reveals how retrievers create connections that transcend typical business relationships.

Through candid storytelling, we explore the world of waterfowl outfitting from an insider's perspective. Chase details how Fowl Plains builds its reputation not just on hunting success, but on creating a "home away from home" experience that keeps clients returning year after year. His philosophy of "controlling the controllables" offers valuable insight for anyone in the service industry or building a passion-based business.

The episode takes a poignant turn as Chase discusses the recent DC plane crash that claimed the lives of several Fowl Plains clients returning from a hunt. In the face of devastating loss, the waterfowl community demonstrated extraordinary solidarity, raising over $230,000 for affected families. This tragedy underscores Chase's message that hunting is about people and relationships—not pile pictures or social media validation.

Whether you're a dedicated waterfowler, considering a guided hunt, or simply appreciate authentic stories of friendship and community, this conversation reminds us that the best memories in the field often have little to do with the number of birds harvested. Ready your retriever, pull up a seat by the fire, and join us for a heartfelt discussion about what truly matters in the hunting world.

#021 From 3 AM boat ramp conversations to thawing frozen hands with body heat, Wade Shoemaker pulls back the curtain on what it really means to bridge the gap between the waterfowl industry and the passionate hunters who fuel it. As the driving force behind Migra Ammunition's revolutionary Boat Ramp Tour, Wade has transformed what began as simple marketing into something far more valuable – genuine connection in an increasingly fragmented outdoor community.

Wade shares his remarkable journey from youth pastor to railroad manager to waterfowl industry insider, revealing the unexpected parallels between ministry and his current role. The conversation takes a particularly poignant turn when discussing the challenges of balancing intensive seasonal travel with family life. "When I am home, I'm home," Wade emphasizes, describing how he makes every moment count with his young sons during the brief respites between trips.

Parents who hunt will find Wade's candid advice on introducing children to waterfowling particularly valuable. Beyond the practical tips – never forget the heater or blind snacks – he offers something more profound: permission to prioritize your child's experience over the hunt itself. His story of warming his son's painfully cold hands against his stomach during a frigid morning hunt exemplifies the lengths great hunting parents will go to ensure positive first experiences.

The Boat Ramp Tour itself emerges as a fascinating case study in authentic marketing. What began as simple shell handouts has evolved into a powerful conduit between brands and their consumers, with Wade and his team serving as trusted intermediaries. Perhaps most remarkably, these pre-dawn conversations at public access points are helping to resurrect something many believed lost – the cooperative spirit that old-timers remember from duck hunting's "heyday."

#020 Our conversation explores the journey of dog training and the nuances of being a responsible dog owner. Luke Moore from Gunner shares valuable insights on training, breeding, and the reality behind the "off switch" concept in Labradors. 

• Luke defines the "off switch" as a misleading term in dog training 
• Importance of socialization and proper training for young dogs 
• Luke's experience with his own dog, Dex, and the journey to becoming a well-rounded retriever 
• Discusses the role of professional trainers and the right combinations of traits 
• Encouragement for listeners to reassess their expectations regarding dog behavior 
• The significance of active involvement by dog owners in training processes 
• Insights into misconceptions in dog breeding and qualities of each dog 

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#019 In this episode, Josh Parvin joins Barton Ramsey as he shares the story of his recent experience with a dog named Buck, detailing the journey of bringing him from the UK to the US, the challenges faced during the importation process, and the unfortunate incident of Buck escaping shortly after his arrival. The conversation delves into the significance of field trials, the emotional investment in selecting the right dogs, and the unexpected challenges that arise in dog training and care. In this conversation, Barton shares the harrowing experience of losing his dog, Buck, and the emotional turmoil that ensued. He recounts the panic of realizing Buck was missing, the frantic search efforts involving neighbors and community members, and the emotional toll it took on him and his family. Barton reflects on past experiences with lost dogs, the challenges of ensuring their safety, and the importance of community support during such distressing times. The conversation also touches on the complexities of pet insurance and the last-ditch efforts made to find Buck. In this heartfelt conversation, Barton shares the emotional journey of searching for his lost dog, Buck, over a span of 12 days. The discussion highlights the power of social media in rallying community support, the challenges faced during the search, and the miraculous reunion that brought joy and relief. Barton reflects on the lessons learned and the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations.

#018 What if the key to unlocking your hunting dog's full potential lies in understanding its origins? Join us as we explore the fascinating contrasts between American and British Labradors with Barton Ramsey and Chris Rud. We'll unveil the historical context and practical considerations that can guide you in choosing the perfect Labrador for hunting, family life, or competitive trials. Expect laughs and learning as we share personal stories, including encounters with notable breeders and family discussions that add depth to our exploration.

We illuminate the divergent training methodologies that distinguish British dogs from their American counterparts. Discover how the non-compulsion approach of British training can influence hunting styles and how these methods are adapted for American settings. We'll take you through the rigorous standards of British field trials, where live game and strict control are the norm, and share firsthand experiences illustrating the significant impact of these practices. Whether you're training for field trials or just enhancing your hunting dog's skills, our insights will bridge the gap between different philosophies and elevate your understanding.

Advanced training techniques like force fetch and force to pile will also be dissected, with a focus on pushing dogs to their limits while ending on positive notes. You'll gain valuable knowledge on the genetic factors that affect dog behavior and why rigorous breeding practices are essential for producing high-performing retrievers. Through engaging anecdotes and expert advice, we aim to arm you with the information needed to make informed decisions about your canine companion. Join us for a comprehensive guide to selecting and training your next hunting retriever, filled with practical tips and heartfelt stories.

#017 What happens when a gundog trainer, a passion for cooking, and a love for the great outdoors intersect? You get an unforgettable episode with Chris Rud, also known as "The Hunt Test Hobo." Chris unpacks his adventurous approach to hunt tests, where he embraces a budget-friendly lifestyle by camping in the back of his truck. He also shares his memorable culinary experiences, like tasting the best mac and cheese ever made by Jay, a client of Clark Kennington. This episode is filled with humor, camaraderie, and practical dog-training tips for enthusiasts at any level.

We also take a culinary journey that celebrates the joys of outdoor cooking and the bonds it creates. Relive our epic Father's Day meal featuring smoked ribs and smoked Gouda mac and cheese, and discover how portable smokers like Pit Boss have revolutionized our hunt test feasts. From exchanging spice and rub tips to innovative coffee-making gadgets like the Yeti French press, we dive into how cooking and shared recipes elevate our outdoor adventures. 

Our conversation then shifts gears to explore the intricacies of dog training, from transitioning from ministry to retriever training to balancing family life with running a Labrador retriever kennel. Chris sheds light on advanced training techniques, the significance of proper handling and marking skills, and the evolution of training methods. This episode is packed with insights and experiences that celebrate the dedication required to excel in both ministry and dog training, making it a must-listen for seasoned pros and amateurs alike.

#016 What if you could transform your passion for dogs into a rewarding career? Join us as Bob Owens of Lone Duck takes us on his inspiring journey from doodling dogs to becoming a leading figure in the world of gundog training. Bob shares how a childhood fascination, influenced by Ducks Unlimited's Water Dog TV, evolved into a thriving business encompassing training, breeding, and podcasting. His story is a testament to following one’s passions and the unspoken bond between humans and their canine companions.

Ever wondered how the pandemic reshaped the dog training and breeding industry? Discover the unexpected challenges and opportunities that arose during COVID-19, from the surge in puppy demand to the nuances of socializing dogs in a lockdown environment. We dig into practical advice on raising well-adjusted puppies and the importance of early socialization, highlighting the benefits of a patient approach to training. This segment also sheds light on the subtle yet significant differences between American and British dog training methodologies, emphasizing positive reinforcement and natural marking abilities.

Our conversation with Bob Owens doesn’t stop there. We navigate through the ethical considerations of breeding Labradors for field performance, the complexities of force fetch training, and the balanced use of training tools like e-collars and whistles. Bob offers invaluable insights into building a strong foundation for gun dogs and the importance of community within the gundog training world. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the joys, challenges, and ethical landscapes of training hunting dogs, making this episode a must-listen for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

#015 Wally's seasoned insights combined with the tales of our dogs' progression from eager puppies to disciplined retrievers is a narrative that will captivate both the novice and the experienced handler. As we dissect the nuances of our training methods, you'll find yourself immersed in the complexity and dedication it takes to cultivate a gundog's potential. From the tailored approaches we employ to instill a strong water attitude to the "Wally Drill" that keeps the pups' tails wagging with excitement, we leave no stone unturned. 

The conversation doesn't end there; we venture into the collective dynamic of group training, emphasizing the mental agility it instills in our dogs, before delving into the critical aspects of retrieval training. Trust me when I say that our experiences, coupled with the shared advice on positive reinforcement and the patience required in this craft, will resonate with anyone who's ever looked into the loyal eyes of a gundog and seen the untapped potential within. Join us as we recount our journey with these remarkable animals, and perhaps you'll discover the key to unlocking your own dog's full capabilities.

#014 Ever wondered what it takes to turn a good gundog into a great one? Strap in for a journey through Cornerstone Gundog Academy's Member Weekend in Jasper, Alabama, where the synergy between handler and retriever takes center stage. As your guide, I'll recount the excitement and invaluable lessons from group obedience workouts to the mock hunts. We're talking precision drills for every skill level, from eager pups to those venerable retrievers that still show us the ropes—and trust me, even my seasoned companions Twig and Ozzie had their moments to shine and areas to grow. 

I'll share the triumphs and the hiccups, all while celebrating the progress and camaraderie that comes from facing challenges as a team. Handlers, novices, and experts alike, stepped up their game, proving that every stumble is a leap forward in the training world. So, buckle up, bring your love for gundogs, and prepare for an episode that's not just about training tips but about the heart-pumping, tail-wagging adventure that is the cornerstone of every great gundog story.

#013 Spring's arrival always brings back memories of cool mornings turned warm, as my son Noah and I tread softly through the awakening woods, our retrievers eager at our heels. It's a time of transition, from the quiet end of waterfowl season to the lively beginnings of summer training, and no one embraces this change more than Noah. He reminds us that the hunt isn't always about the shot—it's about the joy in the journey and the dance of a job well done by our four-legged companions. Join us as we recount family escapades and the triumphant milestones of a boy and his dog.

Noah, stepping confidently into the storytelling ring, brings to life the adventures of our unique Thanksgiving at Salt Plains, a day as memorable for its departures from tradition as it is for the laughter and bonding it brought. At the heart of our conversation are the ties that bind, the lessons learned amidst nature's grandeur, and the shared experiences that form the bedrock of family lore. Whether it's battling the elements on our annual Purpose trip or the sweet victory of Noah's first Mallard with a trusty 410, these are the tales that weave the fabric of our kinship.

Wrapping up with practical nuggets of wisdom, our chat transitions from heartfelt reflection to the nitty-gritty of travel and training with a lively crew of kids and canines. Noah's insights on overcoming separation anxiety and his love for the training field enrich our dialogue, offering a fresh perspective on ensuring comfort for all on our jaunts through the countryside. Our hope is that these shared stories, seasoned with the humor and warmth only a father-son duo can provide, inspire you to craft your own cherished memories, whether in the blind, on the road, or during those quiet moments at home with your own family and loyal retrievers at your side.