In this episode, I sit down with Tony Peterson for a conversation that starts with deer and turkeys—and then runs as wide and deep as the backcountry itself. We get into the real nuts and bolts of hunting: why in-season scouting often trumps postseason planning, how observing deer in real time teaches more than any app ever could, and why flexible strategies almost always beat rigid ones in the whitetail woods.

We talk about reading deer behavior, understanding annual patterns, and the critical role of food sources and bedding in getting close to mature bucks. Tony breaks down how deer navigate pressure and terrain, and why adapting to those conditions is non-negotiable if you want to be successful. There’s also some real talk about what it means to hunt well—how note-taking, self-awareness, and a healthy dose of humility can shift the whole experience.

And yeah, we even veer into fishing, failure, outer space, and the human condition. Because at the end of the day, it’s all connected—hunting, learning, growing, and finding joy in the process. This one’s about more than tags. It’s about doing the work, enjoying the ride, and becoming a better version of yourself along the way.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 435

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Truth From The Stand, I sit down with Lucas Benoit—a lifelong New Hampshire deer tracker with a deep understanding of big woods bucks. We dig into the realities of hunting low-density whitetails in the rugged backcountry of New England, where every step counts and patience is currency. Lucas talks about how terrain, pressure, and age class play into buck behavior, and why spending time in the woods is the only way to really learn it.

We also get into tracking deer in snow, hunting mixed timber and swamp country, and the mental grit it takes to chase deer where seeing even one is a win. Lucas shares the story of chasing a ghost of a buck for 4 years and what it taught him about persistence, heartbreak, and how to adapt when the deer have the upper hand. This one’s packed with hard-earned knowledge from a guy who’s made a lifestyle out of chasing mature deer the hard way.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 434

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand podcast, I’m joined by my buddy Chris Weist, a Pennsylvania native with deep roots in both hunting and competitive powerlifting. We cover a lot of ground in this one—from what it means to chase big deer on pressured ground to what it takes to recover from serious injuries and still get after it.

Chris shares the story of his first deer, what he learned growing up in a hunting family, and how the lessons from the gym carry over into the woods. We talk about the mental side of training, how injuries like a torn pec tendon shift your perspective, and why being mindful in both your training and your time afield matters more than you think.

We also dive into scouting, the difference between hunting with a compound and a trad bow, and why post-season prep is where the real work gets done. If you’re into the grind of deer hunting and the grit it takes to stay in the game—whether you're in the gym or up a tree—this one’s for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 433

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’re talking about setbacks, comebacks, and the kind of grit it takes to keep hunting when life throws you a curveball. Injury and recovery aren’t just physical hurdles—they test your patience, adaptability, and mental game just as much. We dive into how time off can shift your perspective, sharpen your focus, and make you appreciate the small victories that come with getting back in the woods.

We also break down the raw beauty and brutal lessons of longbow hunting—why it challenges everything you think you know, how ground hunting changes the game, and why confidence with your gear is just as important as picking the right tree. From tuning a bow to adjusting your expectations in the field, we get into what it really takes to become a better hunter, not just a luckier one. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, diving into traditional archery, or just looking for ways to hunt smarter, this episode is all about learning, adapting, and getting after it.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 432

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Truth From The Stand, I sit down with Joel Turner, a guy who knows more about the mental side of archery than just about anyone. We’re not just talking about shooting—we’re talking about the mind game behind every release, every draw, and every moment of high-stakes hunting. Joel breaks down the difference between thoughts and thinking, why what you say to yourself before a shot matters, and how to control adrenaline when everything is on the line.

We get into the transition to traditional archery, why shot control is everything, and the blueprint for building a rock-solid shooting process. If you’ve ever struggled with target panic, blown a shot at the worst possible time, or just want to be more deliberate and lethal with a bow in your hands, this episode is for you. Joel’s approach to mental performance and archery mastery will change how you think about shooting—and maybe even how you think about hunting altogether.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 431

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Truth From The Stand, I catch up with Aaron Hepler to talk about everything from hunting strategy to the value of good hunting partners. We dig into the highs and lows of the season, the lessons learned, and the balance between solo and group hunting. Whether you're the kind of hunter who thrives on the camaraderie of a deer camp or someone who prefers the mental clarity of a solo sit, we break down the benefits and challenges of both.

We also get into the essentials—why scouting and gathering intel are game-changers, how boredom can actually spark creativity in the field, and why critical thinking separates successful hunters from the rest. Aaron and I swap stories on traditional archery, working with hunting dogs, and the nuances of scent and wind direction. At the end of the day, it’s about mastering the basics, learning from mistakes, and staying adaptable. If you're looking to sharpen your skills and rethink your approach, this one’s for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 430

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Truth From The Stand, I sit down with Jace to talk about the raw journey of chasing particular mature deer . We dive into setting goals and learning from mistakes, and how true fulfillment comes from the chase itself—not just the kill. Jace and I break down how a mindset built on gratitude and preparation can transform the hunting experience, turning personal success into a way to give back.

We also explore the evolution from opportunistic hunting to targeted strategies, discussing everything from understanding deer behavior across seasons to the pressure and solitude that come with the pursuit of a singular mature buck. If you’re looking for honest insights into the passion that drives us and the lessons learned in the field, this conversation is for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 429

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check out Faceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand podcast, I sit down with Chad for a conversation about the raw realities of hunting and personal growth. We dive into everything from battling brutal winter weather to the highs and lows of hunting in Idaho, Ohio, and the Pennsylvania big woods.

We dig into the highs and lows of chasing a buck, the emotional rollercoaster of committing to one animal, and the vital role of mindset in the field. From swapping gear tips to sharing motivational quotes that keep you locked in, our conversation is all about personal growth, gratitude, and adapting your strategy when things don't go as planned. Whether it's learning from mistakes or reflecting on the camaraderie and challenges of the hunt, this episode is packed with raw insights to help you evolve and stay hungry for the chase.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 428

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Tethrd , Spartan Forge, Lathrop And Sons

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand podcast, I sit down with my buddy Cam to talk about some big life changes—his recent engagement, a new farm, and, of course, chasing big deer. We break down the lessons learned from hunting in the plains, the importance of reading deer behavior, and why sticking to a plan can be just as important as knowing when to adapt.

Cam also shares the story of an Ohio mega buck, the struggles of hunting pressured ground, and how he shifted strategies to zero in on a new target. We wrap things up with reflections on past hunts, his new role at Hawk Optics, and how preparation—both in the woods and in life—makes all the difference

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 427

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Tethrd , Spartan Forge, Lathrop And Sons

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Dieter Kochan to talk hunting, pro hockey, and the discipline it takes to succeed in both. We dig into the unique challenges of hunting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, how intentional practice shapes success, and the role of real-time intel in the whitetail woods. 

Dieter also breaks down the growing role of e-bikes in hunting—what works, what doesn’t, and how to build a machine that can handle tough terrain. Whether you're looking to refine your hunting strategy, explore new gear, or just hear some wild stories, this one's got something for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 426

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Tethrd , Spartan Forge, Lathrop And Sons

—Waypoint TV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices