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:

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