Join host Cody Rich for a killer conversation with Bo DePeña, a country-Americana musician, elk hunter, and all-around passionate dude. Bo shares his journey from the stage to the mountains, diving into how hunting and music fuel his drive to live authentically. We cover chasing elk in tough units, the mental shift from bloodlust to wisdom, and how tools like AI are changing the game for hunters and creatives alike. Plus, we dig into Bo’s new single, Old Bull Winter, a cinematic track inspired by Hemingway and the pursuit of self-discovery through hunting. Whether you’re scouting for elk or chasing your own dreams, this episode will fire you up to lean into the grind and embrace the journey.

• 00:00 - Intro and Setting the Scene: Cody kicks things off, quoting Steve Jobs on following your intuition and diving into Bo’s elk hunting story—a 55-yard shot that drops a gnarly old bull.

• 01:30 - Music and Metal Vocals: Bo and Cody nerd out over vocal talent, from Slipknot covers to Mac Glocky’s detailed breakdowns, and how real skill stands out in a world of AI.

• 05:45 - AI in Hunting and Music: Bo explores how Cody uses AI to clone his hunting knowledge for fans, while discussing AI’s limits in songwriting and its potential to free creatives for live performances.

• 12:20 - Balancing Nostalgia and New Spots: The guys reflect on the hunt quiet movement, the loss of secret spots, and finding joy in exploring new hunting grounds versus chasing sentimental favorites.

• 19:50 - Dream Elk Hunts and Pressure: Bo shares his dream hunt on Utah’s San Juan unit, while Cody talks about the pressure of premium tags and the thrill of carving out big bulls in tough, over-the-counter areas.

• 27:30 - Old Bull Winter and Storytelling: Bo breaks down his new single Old Bull Winter, inspired by Hemingway’s minimalism and a life-changing hunt after an early snow, weaving a tale of self-actualization.

• 34:15 - Epic Rut Fest Memories: Cody and Bo swap stories of insane elk rut moments, like a 2020 snowstorm that sparked a Tuesday of bugling madness across the Rockies.

• 40:00 - Music Genres and Live Performances: Bo explains the roots of country-Americana, from Texas grit to Nashville polish, and how venue size shapes his setlists for maximum impact.

• 48:25 - Bo’s Music Journey and Goals: Bo opens up about his shift to a power trio, his wife’s push to chase rockstar dreams, and how Marcus King inspires his genre-blending style.

• 55:10 - Injuries and Hunting Prep: Bo shares his struggle with De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (aka “mommy’s thumb”), PRP treatments, and helping his wife Amy prep for an axis deer archery hunt.

• 1:02:00 - Argentina Hunt Plans: Cody and Bo get stoked for their 2027 Argentina red stag trip, comparing it to “miniature elk hunting” and teasing wing shooting with their families.

• 1:08:30 - Hunting Smarts vs. Miles: The guys discuss hiking smarter, not harder, with glassing, mobility workouts, and toggling between “full throttle” and “trolling motor” mindsets.

• 1:16:45 - Upcoming Shows and Wrap-Up: Bo plugs his September and October gigs at the Livingston Songwriter Festival and beyond, with a final shoutout to Old Bull Winter.

Brought to You by OnX Hunt Don’t just hunt—hunt smarter with OnX Hunt. More than a mapping app, OnX is your ultimate hunt planning system. With Elite Membership, you get access to nationwide land ownership maps, Huntin’ Fool’s e-Magazine, Terrain X, and research tools to plan better hunts and find more elk. Cody and Eric rely on OnX to scout high vantage points and navigate tough units. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% on your Elite Membership. Elevate your elk game today!

Powered by Maven Optics When it’s time to glass that dream bull, trust Maven Optics, a Wyoming-based, direct-to-consumer brand delivering unmatched clarity and durability. Eric swears by the B6 binoculars and RS.3.2 rifle scope for spotting giants in the high country. No middleman, no markups—just premium optics at the best value. Check out the B Series at www.mavenbuilt.com and use code TRO for exclusive savings. Spot what others miss with Maven. About the Guest: Bo DePeña

Bo DePeña is a country-Americana musician whose raw, heartfelt songwriting and electrifying live performances are carving out a name in the music world. Hailing from Texas, Bo’s music blends the gritty edge of Texas country with blues, folk, and rock influences, creating a sound that’s both soulful and anthemic. A passionate elk hunter, Bo draws parallels between the pursuit of big bulls and his drive to live authentically, balancing fatherhood, music, and the outdoors. With a killer trio featuring Ronnie Allen on bass and Damon Scott on drums, Bo’s shows are high-energy, venue-tailored experiences that leave audiences buzzing. His latest single, Old Bull Winter, is a cinematic ode to hunting and self-discovery, inspired by Hemingway and a life-changing elk hunt. When he’s not on stage, Bo’s chasing elk, scheming adventures with his wife Amy, or raising their two kids with a love for the wild.

Get fired up for elk season with Bo DePeña’s new single, Old Bull Winter, out now on Spotify, Apple Music, and everywhere you stream! This cinematic track tells the story of a grizzled hunter facing down a legendary bull after an early snow, weaving a tale of grit, wisdom, and self-discovery inspired by Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea. 

Spotify

EP 667: Caleb Brewer | Stick Sniper Archery In this inspiring episode, host Cody Rich  sits down with Caleb Brewer, a former Green Beret who lost both legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan on his birthday. Caleb shares his remarkable journey from military service to discovering archery and hunting as an adult, overcoming immense physical and mental challenges to become a passionate bow hunter and owner of Stick Sniper Archery in Tucson, Arizona. From dry-firing his first bow to epic backcountry hunts, near-death experiences like nearly drowning while pursuing antelope, and lessons in resilience, Caleb's story highlights the power of mindset, community, and embracing the outdoors. Whether you're a hunter, veteran, or anyone facing adversity, this conversation is a testament to turning trauma into triumph and finding joy in the hunt.

Stick Sniper Archery 

• 0:00 - Introduction and Hunting Excitement: The host welcomes Caleb, discusses the thrill of hunting season, and Caleb's "adult-onset" obsession with hunting.
• 3:00 - Caleb's Background and First Hunt: Caleb recounts his outdoor childhood, military service, injury in Afghanistan, and his introduction to hunting through a veteran's foundation.
• 10:00 - Transition to Archery and Bow Hunting: From dry-firing an old bow to falling in love with archery, Caleb explains how it became an all-consuming passion post-injury.
• 18:00 - Identity Shift and Opening a Bow Shop: Caleb opens up about losing his military identity, rediscovering purpose, and the wild story of acquiring and growing his bow shop, Stick Sniper Archery.
• 28:00 - Backcountry Adventures and Challenges: Tales of grueling hunts in Idaho's Selway Wilderness, maintaining fitness as a double amputee, and innovative problem-solving with prosthetics.
• 38:00 - Sense of Humor and Parkour Falls: Light-hearted stories about tripping on prosthetics, embracing humor in tough situations, and the "parkour" yell as a safety check.
• 45:00 - Near-Death Antelope Hunt Story: Caleb's harrowing account of nearly drowning in a flash flood while spot-and-stalking antelope in Arizona.
• 55:00 - More Close Calls and Life Lessons: Reflections on other accidents, burning through "nine lives," and the importance of a positive mindset.
• 1:02:00 - Upcoming Hunts and Closing Advice: Caleb shares his 2023 hunting plans, promotes Stick Sniper, and offers wisdom on enjoying the moment in the outdoors.
• 1:08:00 - Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts: Final exchanges, excitement for future hunts, and a teaser clip.

1. Resilience Through Adversity: Caleb's story shows how traumatic events, like losing both legs, can lead to unexpected positive paths—such as discovering archery and owning a business—if you maintain a problem-solving mindset and refuse to let challenges define you.
2. The Power of Passion and Community: Getting into hunting later in life ignited an all-consuming drive for Caleb, but it was amplified by supportive friends, veterans' groups, and shared experiences, reminding listeners that pursuing what excites you with good people can transform your life.
3. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Outcome: Caleb emphasizes focusing on the quality of the hunt—the moments in nature, friendships, and personal growth—over the kill, as obsessing over results can overshadow the true joy and lessons of the experience.

Stone Glacier – Gear Up for the Backcountry

Stone Glacier is built for hunters and adventurers who demand the highest level of performance and durability. From backcountry hunting to alpine climbing, our gear is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and perform when you need it most. With Stone Glacier, you’re not just buying gear; you’re investing in the next level of outdoor performance.

Why Stone Glacier?

• Lightweight Durability: Our packs, gear, and apparel are crafted for maximum durability while keeping weight to a minimum.

• Engineered for Comfort: Every item is designed to provide the best fit and function, ensuring your comfort during long days in the field.

• Field-Tested: Built by hunters for hunters. Our gear is tested in the harshest conditions by experts who demand the best.

When the wilderness calls, be ready. Explore Stone Glacier and equip yourself with the gear that will carry you further.

OnX Maps – Navigate with Confidence

OnX Maps is the ultimate tool for outdoor enthusiasts, providing you with the most detailed and reliable maps for hunting, hiking, and adventure. With powerful features like offline access, property boundaries, and custom waypoints, OnX Maps ensures you’ll always be prepared, no matter where your adventure takes you.

Why OnX Maps?

• 20% Off with Code TRO: Use code TRO at checkout for 20% off your OnX Maps subscription!

• Offline Mapping: No signal? No problem. Download your maps ahead of time and navigate with ease, anywhere.

• Layered Features: Access crucial details like public/private land boundaries, trail systems, and topographic maps.

Make your next hunt, hike, or adventure seamless with OnX Maps. Use code TRO for 20% off and take your navigation to the next level!

How Morgan Shot a Bear with a Bow & Built Two Thriving Businesses In this episode of The Rich Outdoors, Cody Rich sits down with Morgan Keenan, a Bozeman-based entrepreneur and passionate hunter, to dive into his wild journey from business ventures to hunting feats. Morgan shares his crazy story of shooting his first bear with a bow after just a few months of bowhunting, revealing how his competitive spirit and relentless determination led to success. Plus, hear about his transition into knife-making and launching a ghee business with his partner, showing that his entrepreneurial drive spans across multiple exciting ventures. https://cudaway.com/

Time Stamps:

• 0:00 - 3:00 | Sponsor Messages: OnX Hunt & Maven Optics

• 3:00 - 10:00 | Morgan’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings: Lessons from his dad and starting businesses at a young age

• 10:00 - 18:00 | High School Adventures & Pressure Washing Business: Nearly getting kicked out and finding his first taste of success

• 18:00 - 26:00 | The Dirt Bike Adventure: Taking on the Trans-American Trail and surviving a near-death crash

• 26:00 - 35:00 | A Leap of Faith: Hitchhiking and finding new opportunities in sales and Alaska

• 35:00 - 45:00 | Starting Cutaway Knives: How Morgan combined his love for knives and making things by hand to start a business

• 45:00 - 55:00 | The Bear Hunt: How Morgan shot his first bear with a bow after just months of preparation

• 55:00 - 1:05:00 | Knife-Making & Ghee Business: Expanding into new ventures and the evolution of Cutaway Knives and Empress of Ghee

• 1:05:00 - End | Wrap-Up: Future goals and what’s next for Morgan

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Entrepreneurial Drive: Morgan shares how the entrepreneurial bug hit him early, influenced by his dad’s journey of turning around a business with courage and grit. His story demonstrates that you don’t have to have everything figured out to start making moves—just get started.

2. Bowhunting Success: Morgan’s dedication to bowhunting paid off in spades when he shot his first bear with a bow after only a few months of practice. His story highlights the power of commitment, resilience, and putting in the work to succeed in something new.

3. Diversifying Ventures: From knives to ghee, Morgan’s ability to juggle multiple businesses shows how versatility and passion can lead to success. He’s turned his love for handmade goods and health-conscious food into thriving ventures, proving that it’s possible to do what you love and build a business around it.

The Ultimate Tool for Every Hunter: OnX Hunt Whether you're scouting for your next hunt or navigating the backcountry, OnX Hunt is the most trusted mapping system for hunters, now available in Canada! With OnX, you get access to satellite imagery, route planning, terrain analysis, and even game cam integration. It’s your all-in-one tool for scouting, planning, and navigating. Upgrade to OnX Elite to access even more features, including advanced tools for serious hunters. Use code TRO at checkout to save 20% on your Elite membership and take your hunting game to the next level. Don't head out into the wilderness without it—OnX Hunt is a must-have for every serious hunter. See Your Hunt Like Never Before with Maven Optics When it comes to optics, there’s no better choice than Maven. Proudly based in Wyoming, Maven offers direct-to-consumer optics that give you more bang for your buck. From their B series binoculars to their top-tier RS rifle scopes, Maven delivers premium quality without the middleman markups. If you're ready to upgrade your optics, check out their B6 binoculars or the RS 3.2 rifle scope—gear that’s been tested in the toughest conditions. Get your gear from Maven and feel the difference. Visit mavenbuilt.com and use code TRO to save on your next purchase. Trust Maven for the best in optics!

EP 665: Jake Purlee In this episode, Cody sits down with Jake to chat about the grind and the glory of bear hunting, mountain running, and everything in between. Jake shares his ups and downs during a tough bear season, including the challenges of sticking to one spot despite the temptation to bounce around. They dive deep into the highs and lows of the hunt, including the mental battles faced during late-season hunts and the grind of heavy packs. From bear hunting in Montana to training for races like the Rut, Jake shares valuable insights into how hunting, physical endurance, and mental toughness intersect. Whether you're looking for tips on how to stay motivated during the long seasons or curious about how to balance hunting with physical training, this episode is packed with wisdom and real-life stories that every hunter and adventurer can appreciate.

• 00:00 – Intro & Bear Season Talk

• 05:00 – Highs and Lows of Bear Hunting in Montana

• 10:00 – The Mental Game of Long Seasons & Sticking with One Spot

• 15:00 – The Challenge of Spotting Big Bears & Bouncing Around

• 20:00 – How Bear Hunting Compares to Other Big Game Hunts

• 25:00 – The Power of Patience & Learning from Past Experiences

• 30:00 – Balancing Running and Hiking with Hunting Season

• 35:00 – Training for the Rut & the Mental Toughness Required

• 40:00 – Dealing with Mental Fatigue & How Physical Training Helps

• 45:00 – The Lesson of Pushing Your Limits and What’s Next for Jake

• 50:00 – Closing Thoughts & Advice for the Upcoming Rut

1. Mental Toughness is Key in Both Hunting and Physical Endurance: Whether you’re in the field chasing bears or preparing for a race like the Rut, the mental game is just as important as the physical one. Jake emphasizes the value of staying consistent and mentally strong throughout the season.

2. Patience Pays Off in the Hunt: Jake shares how sticking to one spot and putting in the hours is often more rewarding than constantly jumping around in search of a "better" spot. Even when it feels like nothing is happening, perseverance in the right spot can pay off.

3. Balance Physical Fitness with Hunting Goals: The episode highlights how training for physical endurance events, like mountain races, can complement your hunting skills. Proper physical conditioning helps you tackle those long hunts and tough terrain, making you more effective and resilient in the field.

Stone Glacier – Gear Up for the Backcountry

Stone Glacier is built for hunters and adventurers who demand the highest level of performance and durability. From backcountry hunting to alpine climbing, our gear is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and perform when you need it most. With Stone Glacier, you’re not just buying gear; you’re investing in the next level of outdoor performance.

Why Stone Glacier?

• Lightweight Durability: Our packs, gear, and apparel are crafted for maximum durability while keeping weight to a minimum.

• Engineered for Comfort: Every item is designed to provide the best fit and function, ensuring your comfort during long days in the field.

• Field-Tested: Built by hunters for hunters. Our gear is tested in the harshest conditions by experts who demand the best.

When the wilderness calls, be ready. Explore Stone Glacier and equip yourself with the gear that will carry you further.

OnX Maps – Navigate with Confidence

OnX Maps is the ultimate tool for outdoor enthusiasts, providing you with the most detailed and reliable maps for hunting, hiking, and adventure. With powerful features like offline access, property boundaries, and custom waypoints, OnX Maps ensures you’ll always be prepared, no matter where your adventure takes you.

Why OnX Maps?

• 20% Off with Code TRO: Use code TRO at checkout for 20% off your OnX Maps subscription!

• Offline Mapping: No signal? No problem. Download your maps ahead of time and navigate with ease, anywhere.

• Layered Features: Access crucial details like public/private land boundaries, trail systems, and topographic maps.

Make your next hunt, hike, or adventure seamless with OnX Maps. Use code TRO for 20% off and take your navigation to the next level!

EP 664: Tyler Horrocks

In this episode, Tyler joins me to talk about his journey from a dedicated hunter to a successful entrepreneur. From peak bagging to bear hunting with hounds, Tyler’s lifestyle is a unique mix of outdoor adventure and business hustle. He shares stories of growing up in Idaho, learning hard work from his dad, and his evolution from a tradesman to a business owner. Tyler dives into the mindset required for both hunting big mule deer and building a successful business—emphasizing the importance of patience, consistency, and playing the long game. We also discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, the sacrifices it takes to follow your passion, and why sometimes it’s not about finding the perfect moment but just putting yourself in the right position. Whether you're into hunting or business, there’s a lot of wisdom here on staying humble, pushing through the grind, and making it happen.

0:00 - Introduction to Tyler and his diverse outdoor activities 5:15 - Early influences: Growing up with a dad who was a big hiker and bear hunter 8:30 - Mule deer hunting legacy: Grandpa’s influence and the pursuit of big bucks 12:00 - The hunt for big bucks: Tyler’s perspective on consistency and patience in hunting 15:00 - The rise of entrepreneurship: How Tyler transitioned from trades to running a business 18:30 - Balancing business and family life: Lessons from being an entrepreneur and a dad 24:00 - Hunting with a purpose: The shift from 'hunting hard' to hunting smarter 27:00 - Getting started in real estate: Tyler’s journey into building homes and investments 30:00 - Overcoming challenges: What Tyler learned from working for himself 34:00 - The importance of relationships: Why timing, networking, and community matter 37:00 - Philosophy of success: What Tyler wants for his kids and his definition of success 41:00 - Patience in both business and life: Lessons learned from hunting and entrepreneurship 45:00 - Conclusion: Tyler's take on the future and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

1. Patience Pays Off – Whether you're hunting big mule deer or building a business, consistency and patience are key to long-term success. Tyler emphasizes that it’s not about rushing to a goal, but about putting in the time and being in the right place at the right time.

2. Entrepreneurship is About Self-Belief – When starting out, Tyler had no formal mentorship but relied on self-belief, hard work, and learning by doing. His success is a result of his unwavering commitment to his goals, even when others doubted him.

3. Family and Lifestyle Matter More Than Status – Tyler's definition of success is simple: being able to do what he loves, spend time with his family, and provide a good quality of life. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.

First up, OnX Maps – the go-to app for hunters who need to stay connected and informed while out in the field. Whether you’re hunting elk, mule deer, or chasing big bulls in the mountains, OnX has you covered with topographic maps, landowner info, and the ability to mark your spots. The GPS capabilities and offline mapping make it the perfect tool to keep you on track, no matter how remote your hunt. Don’t leave home without it. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use the code TRO to save 20% on your subscription.

Want to upgrade your gear? The B6 binoculars from Maven Optics are built for hunters who demand precision, clarity, and durability—everything you need when you’re out there chasing adventure.

Whether it’s glassing for elk in the high country or spotting bucks in the backcountry, the B6s give you the edge to spot what others miss. Clear, sharp, and reliable—these binos will take your hunt to the next level.

Get yours today and use code TRO  Check them out here: Maven Optics B6 Binoculars Use code: TRO

EP 663: Doug Champion

In this episode, Cody sits down with Doug Champion, the founder of Champion Living Fitness, a business that trains rodeo athletes in strength and conditioning. Doug shares his fascinating journey from a professional rodeo career to running a fitness business, focusing on what it takes to excel in rodeo and in life. He dives deep into the intersection of fitness, mindset, and personal growth, discussing how staying strong physically and mentally helped him recover from a life-changing injury and pivot into a successful career. We also explore the evolution of rodeo as an industry, the importance of fundamentals, and the lessons he learned from his own experiences that can apply to everything from business to hunting.

• 0:00 – Intro and setting the stage for the conversation

• 2:30 – Doug's rodeo background and the injury that changed his life

• 8:30 – Doug's journey into fitness and founding Champion Living Fitness

• 13:00 – Overcoming adversity and mindset shifts after a serious injury

• 22:00 – The role of fitness and recovery in rodeo and personal life

• 35:00 – Rodeo athletes' mindset and the importance of confidence

• 46:00 – Insights on how rodeo is evolving with fitness and the importance of training

• 55:00 – Doug’s take on success, gratitude, and building a business from scratch

• 1:10:00 – The crossover between rodeo, business, and life lessons for hunters

• 1:20:00 – Advice for athletes and newcomers looking to succeed in competitive environments

• 1:30:00 – Conclusion and Doug's final thoughts on health, fitness, and success

1. Mindset is Everything: In rodeo, hunting, and business, confidence and the ability to shake off failure are critical. Doug emphasizes the importance of a "goldfish memory" to stay mentally resilient after setbacks.

2. The Power of Fundamentals: Success in high-performance sports like rodeo or elk hunting often comes down to executing basic skills consistently. Whether it's setting your feet properly in bull riding or maintaining a disciplined hunting approach, the small actions compound to big results.

3. Pressure is a Privilege: Doug shares how embracing pressure and stress is essential for growth and success, whether it’s in the rodeo arena, business, or personal life. The hard times often lead to the biggest breakthroughs.

This episode is brought to you by two of the best names in the hunting world – OnX Maps and Stone Glacier.

First up, OnX Maps – the go-to app for hunters who need to stay connected and informed while out in the field. Whether you’re hunting elk, mule deer, or chasing big bulls in the mountains, OnX has you covered with topographic maps, landowner info, and the ability to mark your spots. The GPS capabilities and offline mapping make it the perfect tool to keep you on track, no matter how remote your hunt. Don’t leave home without it. Head to www.onxmaps.com and use the code TRO to save 20% on your subscription.

Next, we’ve got Stone Glacier, the brand that sets the bar for high-performance gear in the backcountry. From their lightweight, durable backpacks to their breathable, water-resistant clothing, Stone Glacier is built to help you go further and stay comfortable, no matter how tough the conditions. If you’re serious about your gear and need something that won’t hold you back on those long, rugged hunts, check out Stone Glacier at www.stoneglacier.com

Join hosts Cody Rich and Drew as they recount an exhilarating week-long bear hunting adventure in Montana, blending rugged outdoor experiences with deep business insights. This episode dives into the highs and lows of their hunt, where they faced challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and elusive bears, all while testing new gear prototypes. Beyond the hunt, the duo explores innovation in the hunting industry, drawing from Matt Ridley’s book How Innovation Works. Drew shares his journey of revolutionizing tripods and bipods, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and industry disruption. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Drew reveals his passion for foster care ministry, detailing how his business success fuels a mission to support foster families and children. Packed with raw storytelling, practical business advice, and a call for industry unity, this episode is a must-listen for hunters, entrepreneurs, and anyone inspired by purpose-driven innovation.

EP 661: Alishia Zemlicka  This week on the Elk Hunt Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Alishia Zemlicka – a badass hunter and real estate investor. Alicia, along with her husband, is one of the best elk hunters I know, and her solo elk hunting success last season is one for the books. We dive into her journey, from hunting alongside her husband to now taking down giant bulls all on her own. The story of her recent hunt is pure epicness.

In addition to her impressive hunting career, Alishia shares her journey into real estate investing. What started during the chaos of COVID with no prior experience has blossomed into an incredible success story. Five years later, Alishia and her husband have grown their real estate portfolio to 85 doors, building a thriving business and living their dream. This episode is packed with powerful insights on both hunting and business.

OnX Maps: Your Ultimate Hunting Companion

When you’re out in the field, the last thing you want to worry about is your map letting you down. That’s where OnX Maps comes in. Whether you’re scouting for elk, navigating unfamiliar terrain, or hunting in remote areas, OnX Maps gives you the most accurate, reliable, and detailed maps to help you stay on track.

With features like offline maps, public and private land boundaries, and waypoints that work even when you're out of cell service, OnX ensures you have everything you need to make smart decisions and stay confident in your journey.

Don’t let anything hold you back from your next big adventure. With OnX Maps, you’ve got the tools you need to succeed—no matter where you are.

Explore smarter. Hunt with confidence. OnX Maps.

In this powerful episode, Trevor Farnes—founder of MTN OPS and author of The Conquer Code—shares his journey from financial collapse and personal doubt to building one of the most recognized brands in the hunting and fitness industry. Cody and Trevor dive into deep conversations on faith, failure, purpose, and the long game of building a mission-driven life. Trevor opens up about losing everything, learning to pivot, and how connection—to family, mentors, and God—pulled him through. Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or just trying to find your path, this episode is full of hard-earned wisdom.

Show Sponsor:

This episode is brought to you by OnX Hunt, the ultimate tool for serious hunters. As an Elite Member, you get access to the Hunt Research Tool (HRT), making it easy to find draw odds and plan your season. Plus, OnX Elite includes a free subscription to Huntin’ Fool e-Magazine, giving you detailed unit insights to help you pick the best hunts. Upgrade to OnX Elite and start planning your next adventure today!

1. “Let Time Do the Hard Work” Patience isn’t passive—it's strategic. Trevor reminds us that consistency, perseverance, and letting time shape us is often the key difference between success and failure.

2. Build a Life with Core Values as Guardrails Mountain Ops doesn’t just preach values—they live them. Trevor explains how decisions, both personal and business, are easier when guided by clear principles.

3. Mentors Are Everywhere—Even If They Don’t Know It Whether it's a personal relationship or following someone online, Trevor outlines how to build a “personal advisory board” and learn from others, even from a distance.

Guest: Trevor Farnes, Founder of MTN OPS and author of The Conquer Code

Topics Covered:

• The Myth of Overnight Success: Trevor shares his true origin story—including seven failed businesses and losing everything before MTN OPS ever existed.

• 2007 Franchise Disaster: The hard lessons from signing personal guarantees on seven failed retail franchises and what it taught him about risk, cash flow, and resilience.

• Faith in the Valley: The role of spiritual connection and divine timing during the darkest years of his life.

• Starting MTN OPS: How a supplement created for his father’s heart condition turned into a massive movement in the hunting industry.

• Let Time Do the Hard Work: What this phrase means to Trevor, and why patience is the entrepreneur’s most underrated weapon.

• Launching with Purpose: Why Mountain Ops was never just a supplement brand—and how connection, mission, and core values fuel its success.

• From Founder to Visionary: Trevor’s intentional decision to step down as CEO to focus on storytelling, relationships, and impact.

• Mentorship and the Personal Board of Directors: Trevor’s framework for finding mentors, even if they don’t know they’re mentoring you.

• Essentialism and Saying No: How Trevor balances opportunity overload with what matters most—his faith, his family, and his mission.

• The Auction Dream: A vivid dream that changed Trevor’s perspective on time and attention forever.

Bonus Topics:

• Advice for 20-somethings and aspiring entrepreneurs

• How hunting deepened his relationships and reshaped his identity

• Insights from writing The Conquer Code

• Operation Conquer Hunger: MTN OPS’ impact initiative providing over 7 million meals to families in need

Resources & Mentions:

• The Conquer Code by Trevor Farnes → [Link]

• How Will You Measure Your Life by Clayton Christensen

• Essentialism by Greg McKeown

• 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

• MTN OPS: mtnops.com

• Operation Conquer Hunger → [Link]

EP 659: Argentina Stag Hunting | Jaden Bales  This week on the podcast, young Jaden is back from his guiding trip to South America, and we dive deep into his wild adventure! Jaden spent a couple of weeks in Argentina chasing free-range red stag on a ranch, and I couldn’t wait to catch up with him. We get into the details of what these hunts are really like, comparing tactics between hunting red stag and elk.

Jaden and I are joined by mutual friend David Sharpe as we deep dive into chasing stag in South America and how the experience can improve your elk hunting skills. We discuss the differences and similarities in tactics, plus Jaden shares the incredible story of helping harvest one of the best free-range red stags of the year.

Lastly, we talk about the possibility of an exciting elk training program that might just take a group of listeners to hunt red stag in the off-season. If you’re interested, DM us!

Show Notes:

• Jaden’s Argentina Adventure: A look into Jaden’s guiding trip chasing red stag in South America.

• Hunting Tactics: Comparing tactics for red stag hunting and how they apply to improving elk hunting skills.

• The Big Stag Story: Jaden and his Wyoming buddy help a client harvest one of the best free-range red stags in the area using mule deer tactics.

• Elk Training Program: A discussion on creating an elk training program involving a red stag hunt for listeners.

If you're interested in joining the elk training program, DM us! This episode is brought to you by OnX Hunt, the ultimate tool for serious hunters. As an Elite Member, you get access to the Hunt Research Tool (HRT), making it easy to find draw odds and plan your season. Plus, OnX Elite includes a free subscription to Huntin’ Fool e-Magazine, giving you detailed unit insights to help you pick the best hunts. Upgrade to OnX Elite and start planning your next adventure today!