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The Sporting Life Notebook Podcast: Wingshooting in Watercolor & Backcountry Insights

Welcome back to The Sporting Life Notebook Podcast!  Durrell Smith, is here with an exciting and insightful episode, recorded live, to share updates, personal stories, and deep dives into the sporting life. This episode features the "Wingshooting in Watercolor" presentation given at the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA) Rendevous in Missoula, MT.

Sponsored by Beretta USA & Beretta Gallery This podcast is proudly brought to you by Beretta USA and Beretta Gallery. Make sure to visit berettagalleryusa.com to explore their range of products, including premier firearms and shotguns. You can get discounts on many items right now, and don't forget to use promo code TSLN for special savings!

In This Episode:

• The Backcountry in Your Backyard Event at Orvis Sandanona Durrell recounts the recent Backcountry in Your Backyard event, a partnership between Minority Outdoor Alliance and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA). The event, held at Orvis Sandanona in Millbrook, New York, offered a unique opportunity for a smaller group of participants (five this year!) to experience clay shooting and fly fishing for free, with transportation facilitated from Penn Station. The goal of these events is to provide access to the outdoors for black and brown people and those who haven't had the opportunity, connecting them with conservation and outdoor sports. Hear about the fantastic experience of participants breaking clays and even catching fish, and the joy of seeing new outdoor enthusiasts light up. Plans are already in motion to return to Sandanona next year.
• Deep Dive: The Beretta 687 EL Diamond Pigeon 410 Get an exclusive look and hear about 's personal experience with his favorite Beretta shotgun, the 687 EL Diamond Pigeon in 410 gauge. Discover why this handmade firearm, with its stunning hand-etched engraving of pheasants, woodcock, and grouse, is a dream piece. Learn about the unique "break-in" process for a handmade gun and how it finally became "like butter" after two and a half seasons of use. emphasizes the importance of using such high-quality pieces in the field to create a lasting legacy. This 28-inch barrel beauty is available at berettagalleryusa.com for $9,429, and remember to use the TSLN promo code for 10% off!
• The Power of Storytelling: A Bird Dog Will Make You Cry shares the impactful story he delivered at the BHA Rendevous, a tale he never got to tell his late mentor, Neil Carter Jr.. This deeply personal narrative recounts a moment at a Minority Outdoor Alliance "learn to hunt" event in Alabama where a participant, Renee, overcame significant personal trauma related to firearms through the therapeutic experience of bird hunting with 's dogs, Jug and Joker. Discover how the bird dog's work transcended the hunt itself, highlighting the internal and healing aspects of connecting with nature.
• Art, Creativity, and the Future of the Outdoors Building on the "Wingshooting in Watercolor" presentation, discusses the crucial role of art and authentic creativity in documenting and sharing outdoor experiences. He challenges the limitations of digital content and AI in conveying the true essence of hunting and conservation. Learn how his artwork bridges cultural divides and connects communities, from city dwellers to international chucker hunters in the Himalayas. The conversation emphasizes that unique, human-made art is vital for attracting new, diverse audiences and preserving the tactile, real experience of the outdoors for future generations.

New Sporting Life Notebook Offerings is excited to announce new products crafted with his own hands and artistic vision, soon available on the thesportinglifenotebook.com web store:

• Coffee Collaboration: A custom "sporting life roast" created in partnership with Grassroots Coffee Roasters in Thomasville, Georgia, featuring unique bag artwork designed by .
• English Setter Keychains: From 2D drawings to 3D reality, these all-gold English setter keychains are a fun, unique offering.
• Limited Edition Sculptures: Large, hand-leafed gold English setter sculptures, serving as fine art pieces for the upcoming American Soil, American Soul exhibition.
• Handmade Dog Collars: The first prototypes of 100% genuine cowhide leather dog collars, hand-cut and hand-stitched by himself, will be available soon.

Upcoming Events & Announcements:

• Minority Outdoor Alliance: Union Perfectors for Conservation Join the Minority Outdoor Alliance for a day of exploration and discovery! This service-oriented event will connect the community with Pennsylvania state agencies. There will be hands-on demonstrations, opportunities to meet wildlife experts, and activities like bird watching for the whole family.
  • Date: August 2nd
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Location: French Creek State Park, 843 Park Road, Elverson, Pennsylvania
  • Register here: https://www.register-ed.com/events/view/231822
• American Soil, American Soul 3rd Exhibition Mark your calendars for the third visual arts show, potentially featuring a musical performance, from American Soil, American Soul!
  • Date: October 8th
  • Time: Evening show, around 6:00ish
  • Location: Norton and Hodges store in Charleston, South Carolina
• Minority Outdoor Alliance Membership Keep an eye out for details on how to become a member of the Minority Outdoor Alliance as they prepare to open up membership options soon, aiming to expand their national reach.

Connect with The Sporting Life Notebook:

• Visit the Official Store: thesportinglifenotebook.com
• Shop Beretta: berettagalleryusa.com (use code TSLN)
• Learn More About Minority Outdoor Alliance: minorityoutdooralliance.org
• Subscribe on YouTube: American Soil, American Soul for comprehensive content from sporting life to art and music
• Sign Up for the Newsletter: thesportinglifenotebook.com
• Follow on Social Media:
  • YouTube: American Soil, American Soul
  • Instagram: American Soil, American Soul, The Sporting Life Notebook, Minority Outdoor Alliance
  • TikTok: (Follow once the host is out of "TikTok jail" for talking about firearms!)
• Support Public Lands: Join Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA)

Thank you for tuning in and supporting the podcast. Your engagement inspires the work we do. Share these channels with friends and keep supporting the genuine and inspired work of The Sporting Life Notebook!

Episode Description: 

Quote of the Episode: 

"I hope to leave you better than we found you in the space when you go back out to the world, whether that be with knowledge or just some peace." - Ashley White

Join host Durrell Smith as he returns to the mic with exciting updates, a recap of his experiences at the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Rendevous, and a deep dive into upcoming events for Minority Outdoor Alliance and American Soil, American Soul. This episode also features a captivating conversation with fly fishing guide Ashley White, who shares his unique journey into upland hunting, discussing generational knowledge, the nuances of training his German Wirehair Pointer, Cubby, and the invaluable role of mentorship and community in the outdoor world. Durrell and Ashley also explore the importance of safety and access in the outdoors and the exciting potential of "cast and blast" experiences.

Key Topics & Highlights:

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Welcome and Host Updates

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Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) Rendevous Recap

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California Guiding Hunts: He discusses his upcoming role guiding hunts in Southern California for valley quail, dove, pigs, and chucker.

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Wing Shooting in Watercolor Workshop: Durrell led a well-attended workshop focused on art and storytelling in the outdoors.

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Storytelling at BHA Awards: Upcoming Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA) Events

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July 12th - New York City: MOA, in partnership with BHA and Orvis Sandanona, will host an "Explore Hunting" event with activities including clay shooting, conservation education, hunting introductions, and fly fishing. Registration details are available on minorityoutdooralliance.org and social media.

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Union Perfectors for Conservation (UPCO): Led by Durrell's wife, these upcoming events (two in Pennsylvania, one in Boston, one in Atlanta) involve focus groups and listening sessions to bridge state agencies and diverse communities in conservation efforts. Dates will be finalized soon.

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American Soil, American Soul third annual traveling art exhibition will be held on October 8th in Charleston, South Carolina, at Norton and Hodges.

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Durrell proudly highlights "Closed Seasons" by Dr. Julia Brock

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Sponsor Shout-out: Beretta USA & Beretta Gallery

Listeners can receive a 10% discount on purchases at berettagalleryusa.com using the promo code "TSLN".

Guest Conversation: Ashley White

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Introduction

 

Journey into Upland Hunting

 

Late Onset" Hunters & Generational Knowledge

 

Ashley introduces his German Wirehair Pointer

 

Mentorship & Training

 

Wild Birds vs. Preserves

 

Safety & Access in the Outdoors

 

Cast and Blast" Future

 

Final Wisdom

 

Connect with:

 

The Sporting Life Notebook:

 

Subscribe & Follow: All podcast platforms

 

Website: thesportinglifenotebook.com

 

Instagram & TikTok: @thesportinglifenotebook

 

Newsletter: Subscribe on the website for monthly updates

 

Ebook: "Sketches of the Sporting Life: A Hunter's Conservation Journey" available on the website shop

 

Minority Outdoor Alliance:

 

Website: minorityoutdooralliance.org

 

Instagram: @minorityoutdooralliance

 

Support: Engage with events and consider donations

 

American Soil, American Soul:

 

Website: americansoilamericansoul.com

 

Exhibition: October 8th in Charleston, SC at Norton and Hodges10

Support Our Partners:

•

Beretta USA & Beretta Gallery: Use promo code TSLN for 10% off your entire purchase at berettagalleryusa.com

This podcast episode of "The Sporting Life Notebook" features host Derell Smith in conversation with Joel Peterson, the president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP). The discussion covers Peterson's background and his role at TRCP, the historical significance and current work of the organization in conservation policy, and the importance of collaboration, particularly with groups like the Minority Outdoor Alliance. Smith and Peterson emphasize the need for a unified voice in advocating for conservation and access to public lands for hunting and fishing. Additionally, the episode touches on upcoming initiatives, the value of sportsmen's engagement in policy, and the personal connection to the sporting life.

Main Themes:

1. Partnership and Collaboration for Conservation: The central theme revolves around the vital partnership between the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) and the Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA), highlighting its significance for both organizations and the broader community of sportsmen and conservationists. The episode emphasizes the power of a unified voice in advocating for conservation policies.
2. The Mission and Evolution of TRCP: Joel Peterson outlines TRCP's core mission of guaranteeing all Americans quality places to hunt and fish by unifying and amplifying the sportsman's voice. He also discusses the organization's history, its policy centers, and its strategic direction for the future, emphasizing its nonpartisan approach and its commitment to adapting to the changing landscape of conservation.
3. Importance of Broadening Engagement in Conservation: Both Smith and Peterson stress the need to broaden participation in conservation beyond traditional demographics. They discuss the importance of engaging minority communities and younger generations, highlighting the diverse opportunities available in the outdoor and conservation sectors.
4. Current Conservation Policy Initiatives and Challenges: Peterson provides an overview of key policy initiatives TRCP is currently working on at the federal level, including access (MAP Waters, MAP Oceans), public lands protection (Public Lands and Public Hands Act, Habitat Connectivity on Western Lands Act), the Farm Bill, and safeguarding special places like Bristol Bay and the Brooks Range. He also touches upon the challenges of a shifting political landscape and the need for persistence in achieving legislative goals.
5. The Personal Connection to the Sporting Life and Conservation: Both hosts share their personal journeys into the outdoors and conservation, emphasizing the intrinsic value of these activities and the responsibility to protect these opportunities for future generations. Peterson highlights how his time in the field grounds his work in policy and advocacy.
6. Call to Action and Engagement: The episode concludes with a strong call to action for listeners to get involved in conservation efforts through various means, including supporting organizations like TRCP and MOA, contacting their representatives, staying informed about policy issues, and recognizing their role in contributing to conservation through their sporting activities.

Are you interested in learning about turkey hunting, but don’t know where to start? Would you like to get more involved with conservation? 

Join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and Sitka Gear, along with our partners from Minority Outdoor Alliance as we set up camp in Chicago as part of our Backcountry In Your Backyard Program. We’re hosting a FREE, all-inclusive, entry-level workshop designed to introduce you to the exciting world of turkey hunting, and there is a spot open just for you!

This is your invitation to join us Saturday, March 29th at the new Sitka Gear Store in Vernon Hills, IL. We will be taking over the store from 12-4PM with presentations hardcore turkey hunters, BHA staff, Chapter Leaders and representatives from MOA. We will cover everything from biology and conservation to scouting and access to gear and wild game. Learn the basics that will get you excited and help you feel safe and confident as you head into the woods.

Turkey hunting is one of the best ways to be introduced to hunting, wild game, and helps build a greater appreciation for conservation. You'll find community, connect to conservation, and learn about opportunities to harvest your own wild food. 

 

Topics Discussed:

Biology and Natural History of Wild Turkeys

Conservation/ North American Model 

Scouting & Access

1:45PM- 2:00PM- Break

Calling, Guns and Gear

Processing & Cooking

 

"Sketches of the Sporting Life: A Hunter's Conservation Journey" by Durrell Smith

Purchase HERE

Executive Summary:

"Sketches of the Sporting Life" by Durrell Smith, a 2025 Orvis-Endorsed Wingshooting Guide of the Year nominee and founder of The Sporting Life Notebook, offers a personal and insightful exploration of upland hunting, conservation, and the often-overlooked history and present-day involvement of Black outdoorsmen. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, historical context, and reflections on mentorship and community, Smith articulates his journey into the sporting life, emphasizing the interconnectedness of art, hunting, conservation, and the crucial need for inclusivity and representation in the outdoors. The book highlights the legacy of Black bird dog handlers, the importance of ethical training and conservation practices, and the founding of the Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA) as a means to foster a more diverse and welcoming outdoor community. Smith’s narrative underscores the power of storytelling in preserving traditions and shaping the future of the sporting life.

Main Themes and Important Ideas:

1. The Intertwined Nature of Art and the Sporting Life:

• Smith's journey began with sketching the sporting life before actively participating in it. He sees a deep connection between art and hunting, both requiring "patience, an eye for detail, and a deep respect for history."
• His artwork became a way to "capturing the hunt, even before I had a bird dog of my own."
• He views dog training with an artistic lens, seeing "movement, balance, rhythm—the same things I look for in a painting."

2. Embracing and Honoring the Legacy of African American Outdoorsmen:

• A central theme is the historical presence and significant contributions of Black individuals in upland hunting, bird dog handling, and conservation, often unacknowledged in mainstream narratives.
• Smith emphasizes that "Black folks have always been a part of this world—the bird dogs, the field trials, the conservation movement. But somewhere along the way, a lot of that history got left out."
• His art and The Sporting Life Notebook serve as platforms to "preserving their stories, making sure that the legacy of Black bird dog handlers, plantation dogmen, and Southern sportsmen wasn’t lost to time."
• He highlights the expertise of these "OG Architects of the Field" who were "craftsmen, dog whisperers, men with a deep understanding of the land and the animals they worked with" and trained "some of the finest pointing dogs in history."

3. The Pivotal Role of Mentorship and Community:

• Smith’s personal journey was significantly shaped by mentors like Neal Carter Jr., who taught him the intricacies of bird dog training, patience, and reading the land. He states, "Without mentorship, I wouldn’t be here."
• He actively gives back through mentorship, recognizing its importance in "making sure the knowledge keeps moving forward."
• The co-founding of the Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA) with his wife, Ashley, underscores the importance of building a community where "everyone—regardless of where they come from—can find their place in the sporting life."
• MOA aims to "create pipelines for individuals from underrepresented communities to advance in the outdoor industry and become leaders in conservation policy."

4. The Significance of Ethical Bird Dog Training:

• Smith's training philosophy emphasizes "communication" and building trust with dogs rather than dominance.
• He highlights the importance of "Patience," "Respect," and "Observation" in working with each dog's unique personality and drive.
• His approach blends traditional knowledge passed down from mentors and Black dogmen with his own intuitive style. He quotes his mentor, Neal Carter Jr.: "'You can’t rush a good dog. You just got to let ‘em cook.'"

5. The Intrinsic Link Between Hunting and Conservation:

• Smith asserts that "you can’t be a hunter without being a conservationist" and emphasizes the responsibility of hunters to care for the land that sustains their sport.
• He details his involvement with organizations like Quail Forever, Pheasants Forever, and the TRCP, highlighting the importance of "Land Management," "Habitat Restoration," and "Educating the Next Generation."
• He connects conservation to cultural preservation, stating, "If we lose the land, we lose the culture with it."
• He advocates for inclusivity in conservation efforts, believing that "Conservation can’t just be for the privileged few. It has to be for all of us."

6. The Power of Storytelling and The Sporting Life Notebook:

• The Sporting Life Notebook originated as a personal documentation but evolved into "a platform to amplify the voices of other hunters, dog trainers, and conservationists—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds."
• Through his podcast, writing, artwork, social media, and workshops, Smith aims to "capture the essence of the sporting life" and make it accessible to a wider audience.
• He believes that "if we don’t tell our stories, someone else will—and they might not tell it right."
• Listener feedback on his podcast emphasizes the value of "authentic, in-the-field conversations" and the "deep dive into purpose" within the sporting life.

7. The Mission and Impact of the Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA):

• MOA was founded to address the lack of representation and feelings of exclusion experienced by people of color in the outdoors. Smith states, "Too many people of color felt like they didn’t belong in these spaces."
• The organization's mission is focused on "Connecting, educating, and advocating" for underrepresented communities in the sporting life and conservation.
• Initiatives like "Learn to Hunt" workshops with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, and "Backcountry in Your Backyard" workshops with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, aim to provide education, hands-on experience, and build an inclusive community. Smith hopes to "cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship between the mentors and the participants in the hopes of creating a community that will stand the test of time."

8. Recognition and the Drive for Continued Impact:

• Smith's nomination for the Orvis Breaking Barriers Award is seen as significant, recognizing his efforts in "expanding access and breaking down the walls" in the outdoor world.
• He emphasizes that this recognition "isn’t about me" but about "all the young folks who’ve been told they don’t belong in the outdoors" and the need to continue the work of fostering inclusivity.
• He views the award as "fuel in the fire," reinforcing the necessity and impact of his work through The Sporting Life Notebook and MOA.

9. Paying It Forward and Building the Future:

• Smith is committed to mentoring the next generation, recognizing that "Nobody makes it in this life alone."
• Through workshops, MOA Fest, and mentorship programs, he aims to "create spaces where new hunters and handlers can learn without judgment" and ensure the traditions he loves continue.
• His vision for the future involves "expanding training programs," "growing conservation efforts," and "continuing to tell our stories" to build a more inclusive and sustainable sporting life. He concludes, "Bird dogs, conservation, and the sporting life aren’t just hobbies for me—they’re my purpose. And I’m gonna keep pushing, keep teaching, and keep telling these stories until the next generation is ready to take the torch."

The Sporting Life Notebook/ Show, hosted by Durrell Smith, is dedicated to exploring the rich traditions of hunting, conservation, and the sporting lifestyle. Through engaging storytelling and on-the-ground adventures, the show aims to inspire and educate both seasoned hunters and newcomers to the sport.

Connect with Us:

Website: www.thesportinglifenotebook.com

Instagram: @thesportinglifenotebook

Facebook: The Sporting Life Notebook

Support Our Work: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to our channel, liking the video, and sharing it with fellow hunting enthusiasts. Your support helps us continue to bring you authentic content from the field.

Note: Always ensure to follow local hunting regulations and practice ethical hunting.

The Sporting Life Notebook/ Show, hosted by Durrell Smith, is dedicated to exploring the rich traditions of hunting, conservation, and the sporting lifestyle. Through engaging storytelling and on-the-ground adventures, the show aims to inspire and educate both seasoned hunters and newcomers to the sport.

Connect with Us:

Website: www.thesportinglifenotebook.com

Instagram: @thesportinglifenotebook

Facebook: The Sporting Life Notebook

Support Our Work: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to our channel, liking the video, and sharing it with fellow hunting enthusiasts. Your support helps us continue to bring you authentic content from the field.

Note: Always ensure to follow local hunting regulations and practice ethical hunting.

The Sporting Life Notebook/ Show, hosted by Durrell Smith, is dedicated to exploring the rich traditions of hunting, conservation, and the sporting lifestyle. Through engaging storytelling and on-the-ground adventures, the show aims to inspire and educate both seasoned hunters and newcomers to the sport.

Connect with Us:

Website: www.thesportinglifenotebook.com

Instagram: @thesportinglifenotebook

Facebook: The Sporting Life Notebook

Support Our Work: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to our channel, liking the video, and sharing it with fellow hunting enthusiasts. Your support helps us continue to bring you authentic content from the field.

Note: Always ensure to follow local hunting regulations and practice ethical hunting.