In this heartfelt season finale of The Storied Outdoors, Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on the remarkable guests and memorable essays that made Season Ten so special. From deep conversations to inspiring stories, they revisit the moments that left a lasting impact—and share what they’ve learned along the way.

In classic Storied Outdoors fashion, this episode also takes a few scenic detours. Bryan shares about a recent family trip to Jekyll Island, GA, and a peaceful birding outing with friend Damian Bankhead. The two co-hosts also catch up on life, laughter, and what’s on the horizon for the podcast.

Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about the future of The Storied Outdoors, and a quick reminder—only 7 more hat preorders needed to bring the next batch to life!

This episode is both a reflective snapshot of a full season and a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the friendship that fuels the storytelling.

Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving episode, co-host Bryan Gill shares a reflective and emotional story of guiding his teenage son through his first deer hunt. A Father’s Charge is more than just an account of a hunting trip—it's a meditation on legacy, manhood, reverence for life, and the sacred responsibility of fathers to lead with both courage and tenderness.

Set in the quiet, golden light of a frosty Alabama morning, Bryan recounts the moments of anticipation, a whispered prayer, and the irreversible stillness that follows a successful shot. With vivid storytelling and honest emotion, this episode explores the tension and beauty of passing on a tradition that shapes character and invites young men into a deeper awareness of their place in creation.

In This Episode:

• The emotional weight of a first hunt

• The sacred nature of taking life

• How the outdoors can be a space for spiritual formation

• What it means to be a father raising a son

• Reflections on legacy, reverence, and responsibility

Whether you're a hunter, a parent, or simply someone drawn to stories that matter, this episode offers something meaningful to hold on to.

🔗 Links & Resources:
Website: thestoriedoutdoors.com
Watch on YouTube: The Storied Outdoors Channel
Follow us on Instagram: @thestoriedoutdoors

Legacy, Leadership & the Moose Story – A Conversation with Dr. Jay Wolf

Episode Description:Dr. Jay Wolf served as Pastor of First Baptist Montgomery for nearly 30 years and now continues his Kingdom work as Pastor Emeritus. In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Dr. Wolf to talk about life, legacy, leadership, and a few unforgettable stories—like how the amazing story of his daughter-in-law's healing makes his epic Moose Hunt look like a mouse.

Raised as the son of a cowboy in Texas, Dr. Wolf shares how his roots shaped his faith and calling. From his first deer to his philosophy of family discipleship—“If you hunt with your son, you won’t have to hunt for your sons”—Jay emphasizes the deep importance of relationships and outdoor moments that form lasting bonds.

We also explore his global mission work, his passion for Christ-centered service, and what’s next as he continues supporting ministries like Hope Heals, led by his son and daughter-in-law.

This is a rich, meaningful, and often hilarious conversation with a man who embodies what it means to Fix Your Eyes on Jesus.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

• Growing up cowboy-style in Texas

• The first deer hunting story

• An Epic Moose Story

• Family, discipleship, and outdoor ministry

• His current mission work and future adventures

🔑 Quote of the Episode:“Relationship is the meat and marrow of life.”

In this soul-stirring episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Jim Barger Jr.—a nationally recognized trial lawyer, acclaimed author, environmental advocate, and College Professor. But his résumé only scratches the surface of a man whose life is deeply rooted in story, place, and purpose.

From his childhood on the coastal shores of St. Simons Island, Georgia, to the literary halls of Ole Miss, Jim’s journey weaves through courtroom battles, conservation efforts, and deeply personal revelations. You may know him from his essays in The Bitter Southerner or as co-author of Jimmy Carter: Rivers & Dreams, a beautiful exploration of Carter’s lesser-known love for fly fishing.

But in this episode, Jim opens up about the deeper currents shaping his life—faith, family, and finding peace in a complicated world.

🎣 What shaped his love for the outdoors?🌿 Why did he move his family back to the Georgia coast—and what does he hope to pass on to his sons?📖 What sparked the creation of “Rivers and Dreams,” and how did that journey transform him?🙏 What does it mean to live with “two great loves”—a love for Jesus, and for the person standing right in front of you?

Jim doesn’t just talk about the outdoors—he lives out a net-positive lifestyle, using his platform to fight for environmental preservation and cultivate generational legacy.

This episode is a quiet invitation to rethink what matters most. And somewhere between the salt marsh and the written word, you'll discover a story about returning—both to a physical place and to a deeper sense of calling.

Don’t miss this episode—whether you’re a reader, a father, a fisherman, or someone just searching for deeper clarity in your own story, there’s something here for you.

Hit play, and let the tide of Jim Barger Jr.’s story carry you to places you didn’t expect to go.

Purchase “Jimmy Carter: Rivers and Dreams” HERE, use promo Code StoriedOutdoors at checkout to save some money.

“The deer hunter habitually watches the next bend; the duck hunter watches the skyline; the bird hunter watches the dog; the non-hunter does not watch.”— Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac, 1949

A Feather For My Hat – Pheasant Hunting, Heritage, and Outdoor Legacy

In this episode of *The Storied Outdoors*, we take you deep into the heart of South Dakota’s upland fields for an unforgettable pheasant hunting experience. More than just a sport, this journey is about heritage, camaraderie, and the enduring traditions passed down through generations.

From childhood memories of flipping through hunting magazines in a barbershop to the thrill of stepping into the golden switchgrass fields with shotgun in hand, Brad shares a reflective and nostalgic story of his long-awaited pheasant hunt. Alongside seasoned sportsmen and skilled bird dogs, he discovers the profound connection between hunting, storytelling, and legacy.

**Key Topics Covered:**

✅ The thrill and tradition of pheasant hunting in South Dakota

✅ How hunting fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and conservation

✅ The history and beauty of the ring-necked pheasant in North America

✅ The importance of sportsmanship, ethics, and respect for the land

✅ The bond between hunters and their dogs in the pursuit of upland game

✅ Reflections on outdoor heritage, family traditions, and passing down a legacy

**Why Listen?**

Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who appreciates storytelling rooted in adventure, this episode will resonate with you. We explore not just the sport, but the values and lessons it instills—honoring the past while looking forward to future generations of hunters and conservationists.

**Share Your Story!**

Have you ever had a hunting experience that connected you to your heritage? We’d love to hear about it! Tag us on Instagram @TheStoriedOutdoors and share your story with our growing community of outdoor storytellers.

#PheasantHunting #UplandHunting #HuntingTraditions #TheStoriedOutdoors #OutdoorHeritage #HuntingPodcast #Conservation #SouthDakotaHunting

In this episode, we’re joined by Damion Bankhead, a wildlife and nature portrait photographer based in Birmingham, AL, whose work goes beyond simply capturing images—it’s about revealing the beauty both around us and within us. Damion’s journey into photography started young, seeing the world in pictures before he even had a camera in hand. His passion took a defining turn on a simple hike when he captured a Carolina wren in full song—a moment that connected him to the birding community and set him on the path to having his work published in Amateur Photographer and Alabama the Beautiful.

With a background spanning fitness, the Army, and law enforcement, Damion has always been drawn to storytelling, and through his lens, he aims to help people see themselves and the world with fresh eyes. Today, we’ll dive into his adventures, his approach to natural portraiture, and the moments that have shaped his creative journey.

We sit down with wildlife and nature photographer Damion to explore the journey that led him behind the lens. From an early love of photography and art to his time as a musician and personal trainer and even his service in the military and law enforcement, Damion’s path has been anything but ordinary.

We discuss how his experiences have shaped his ability to see beauty in the world, even after witnessing its darkest moments. He shares the deeper meaning behind his philosophy, “It’s all God’s art, and I just capture it,” and how faith plays a role in his creative process. And, since we like to think of this podcast as a digital campfire, we ask Damion to share one of his go-to stories—one that embodies his adventurous spirit and passion for the outdoors.

Finally, we look ahead to what’s next for Damion as he continues his journey of capturing the natural world through his lens. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

Visit Damion’s Website HERE

Follow Damion on Instagram HERE

Support Damion’s Work by visiting his store HERE

The Storied Outdoors with Aaron Scheer

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Aaron Scheer, Executive Director of Centershot Ministries. As an expert bowhunter and passionate archery advocate, Aaron has dedicated his life to using the sport as a tool for faith-based outreach. Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Aaron leads Centershot Ministries, a program that equips churches and communities to engage with archery while sharing the gospel. His family boasts three generations of devoted elk hunters, faithfully participating in Colorado elk season year after year.

• A Life Shaped by the Outdoors: Aaron shares powerful lessons from his upbringing on a Colorado ranch, where his father instilled wisdom about hard work, resilience, and the natural cycle of life.

  • Quote from Aaron: "The outside is good for the inside."

  • Wisdom from Matt McPherson: "Boys do what they want to do; men do what they should do."

• Archery as a Calling: We explore Aaron’s journey into bowhunting and professional archery. He discusses the discipline, patience, and life lessons archery has taught him.

  • Key Takeaway: "Aim with grace. Judge targets, not people."

• Elite Partnerships – Mathews Archery: Aaron shares his journey with Mathews Archery, his experiences competing at a professional level, and insights into the world of competitive archery.

• Centershot Ministries – Archery Meets Faith: Discover how Centershot Ministries merges archery with Christian outreach, using the sport as a powerful metaphor to share the gospel.

• Epic Backcountry Adventures: Aaron recounts a thrilling mountain lion encounter and other unforgettable moments from his years in the wilderness.

• What’s Next for Aaron: From upcoming shooting competitions to one of the world’s largest archery events in Kentucky, Aaron discusses what’s on the horizon.

This episode is packed with inspiration, adventure, and wisdom for bowhunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection between faith and the outdoors. Whether you're passionate about archery or just love a good hunting story, you won't want to miss this conversation with Aaron Scheer.

Want to be part of this mission? Visit Centershot.org to learn more about how you can get involved, donate, or start an archery ministry in your community.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Storied Outdoors, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow hunters, archers, and outdoor enthusiasts!

Episode Highlights: Why You Should Listen: Support Centershot Ministries:

Join us for an exciting return conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast! Ben is an avid outdoorsman, storyteller, and the driving force behind Dorsal Outdoors. Known for his passion for fly fishing, hunting, conservation, and capturing outdoor adventures through storytelling, Ben is truly our kind of people.

In this episode, we dive deep into Ben’s latest project—a powerful new YouTube series from Dorsal Outdoors called Born Retriever. This six-part series follows Ben’s journey as he trains his family Labrador, Riggins, from couch potato to fully-trained duck and upland hunting dog. Ben shares the challenges, triumphs, and valuable life lessons that come with training a dog for hunting, while also exploring the bond between hunter and retriever.

We discuss the importance of documenting outdoor stories, behind-the-scenes moments from the Born Retriever series, and why this series is so meaningful to Ben. He opens up about the reflection process in Part 6 of the series, the lost opportunities with Riggins that he sought to redeem, and what he’s learned from the experience. Ben also shares the dream projects Dorsal Outdoors is working on next and how listeners can support their mission to tell more outdoor stories.

Whether you’re a hunter, dog lover, or simply passionate about outdoor adventure, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Grab your favorite camp chair, sit back, and join us for an engaging conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast.

Connect with Dorsal Outdoors on their Website⁠ Here⁠

Subscribe to their YouTube Channel ⁠Here ⁠

Follow Dorsal on Instagram ⁠Here ⁠

Ep 145: Trent Ellis: Social Media Comedian/ Redneck Recorder

Title: Hunting, Humor, and Storytelling with Trent Ellis

Summary:Welcome back to The Storied Outdoors, where we find clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. In this episode, we sit down with Trent Ellis—a husband, father, outdoorsman, and social media personality known for blending hunting and humor across platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

Trent shares his journey into the outdoors, his creative process for content creation, and how he balances faith, family, and his growing online presence. We explore the intersection of comedy and conservation, the challenges of being a hunting influencer, and what’s next for his brand. Whether you’re passionate about hunting, storytelling, faith, or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insight and entertainment.

🔥 Topics Covered:✅ Trent’s background and how hunting became a cornerstone of his life✅ Balancing family life with content creation✅ The inspiration behind his hunting and comedy videos✅ The creative process behind his viral content✅ Challenges of being a hunting influencer and handling criticism✅ The future of his brand and upcoming adventures.

🎧 Listen Now on: [Spotify] | [Apple Podcasts] | [YouTube]

🔗 Connect with Trent:📱 Follow Trent on

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

#Hunting #Comedy #Storytelling #Faith #TheStoriedOutdoors

In this episode, we are joined by Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois—an acclaimed chef, storyteller, and outdoorsman whose passion for Southern cuisine is matched only by his love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Chef Jean-Paul brings a deep appreciation for food, tradition, and the stories that connect us, from his roots in Louisiana to cooking across the country.

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois, a man whose love for the outdoors is as rich and deeply rooted as his passion for Southern cuisine. We start by exploring his upbringing in Louisiana, where his connection to the land and water first took hold. Jean-Paul remembers the moments of broken down boats and times in the duck blind that sparked his love for the outdoors, setting the stage for a life intertwined with food, tradition, and adventure.

We then dive into his journey toward a career in the culinary arts—how he found his way into the kitchen and the influences that shaped him as a chef. Much like a musician is molded by the songs they learn and the artists they admire, Jean-Paul reflects on the chefs, experiences, and flavors that have left a lasting mark on his cooking. From kitchens from New York City, all the way to France, to time spent in the field and on the water, he shares how his love for hunting and fishing has found its way back into his career and personal life.

But beyond the food and the wild places, Jean-Paul opens up about something even more profound. He recently shared a moment on Instagram—his baptism in the ocean. We talk about what led him to that powerful decision, what he remembers about that day, and the significance of experiencing such a life-changing moment.

We discuss faith, food, and the pursuit of a life well-seasoned with stories and adventure. You won’t want to miss this one.

Visit Jean'-Paul’s website: www.jeanpaulbourgeois.com

Watch Duck Camp Dinners presented by Meat Eater: Watch Here