Brad Halfacre talks with Clint Melton about the past, present, and future of the Rickman Community and Recreation Center. Clint shares the center’s history, how it fell into disuse over the years, and his vision to restore it as a safe, welcoming outdoor space for local families. The conversation highlights challenges like funding and facility repairs, along with community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and plans for the center’s 20-acre property. Driven by his love for the outdoors and his desire to create opportunities for his four sons and other families, Clint hopes to bring new life back to a treasured community space.

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Brad Halfacre dives underground with Brandon Burris, Dustin Sells, and Misty Pearson of the Clay County TN Cavers for a look into the hidden world beneath our feet. What started as one expensive commercial tour turned into a mission to make caving accessible for everyone—no grotto fees, no barriers, just pure exploration. They break down the unexpected peace of mind caving offers, the essential safety must-knows, and why every cave demands its own gear and respect. The group also shares smart tips for approaching landowners, the importance of protecting natural formations, and how you can join their monthly adventures. Get ready for a conversation as deep as the caves themselves!

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Brad Halfacre sits down with UT Ag Extension Agent Jason Garrett for an eye-opening look into the world of feral pigs. Jason breaks down where feral swine originated, why they’re considered an exotic invasive species, and the massive damage they can cause to farms, forests, and even cemeteries. He explains landowner rights, nighttime hunting permits, and why hunters with dogs often have the upper hand. Jason also dives into trapping tactics, illegal transport issues, and how quickly hog populations can explode—with pigs reproducing as young as six months old. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with or curious about Tennessee’s growing feral hog problem.

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Brad Halfacre talks with Mike Beaty from the TWRA to break down why Tennessee’s deer harvest numbers are down this season. Mike explains the differences between EHD—often called “Blue Tongue”—and CWD, and what hunters need to know about both. He also shares the best digital tools for staying up-to-date on hunting and fishing regulations, plus details on the free Sandhill Crane Festival coming to Birchwood on January 17th. The conversation wraps with tips for winter fishing and where to find this year’s Winter Trout Stocking Schedule.

Brad Halfacre sits down with Ray Cutcher, Jordan Fraley, and Ashley Woolbright to spotlight the 13th Annual Cummins Falls Race happening February 28th. They break down everything runners can expect—from the 5K and 10K to the half and full marathon, including the famous Kayak Bridge section. All race proceeds support Friends of Cummins Falls State Park and future land acquisitions, helping preserve one of Tennessee’s natural treasures. The team also shares details on volunteer roles, sponsor opportunities, race-day food, and the prizes waiting at the finish line. It’s your inside guide to one of the Upper Cumberland’s most exciting outdoor events.

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Brad sits down with Amy Gentry from the Upper Cumberland SORBA to dig into the heart of our region’s mountain biking community. Amy breaks down how the UC SORBA maintains local trails, what really happens at their volunteer “work parties,” and how anyone can jump in and get involved. She walks us through membership costs, where those dollars go, and the partnerships that keep our outdoor spaces clean and thriving. Plus, Amy previews their big annual events—from Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day at Cane Creek Park to the Spring Kickoff in May—and shares how to find them on social media. If you love the trails, this is your inside look at the crew who keeps them rolling.

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Brad Halfacre sits down with Michael Hodge from Pickett CCC Memorial State Park to explore what makes it one of Tennessee’s treasured International Dark Sky Parks. Michael explains why winter skies are clearer, which constellations shine brightest this time of year, and dives into the science behind what we see overhead. He also previews the December 14th meteor shower and shares the best places in the park to catch the show. It’s a stellar listen for anyone who loves astronomy, nature, or simply looking up.

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Join Brad Halfacre as he sits down with Harry Smith from the Cookeville Area Pickleball community to talk all things pickleball! Harry shares the fascinating history of the sport — how it’s been around since the 1960s, where it started, and how it’s now played in over 70 countries. He breaks down the essential gear every player needs (including why safety glasses make his list!) and explains why pickleball truly is a game for everyone from “9 to 90.” Harry also highlights the brand-new state-of-the-art outdoor courts in Cookeville, the growing demand for indoor spaces during the colder months, and the surprising story behind the sport’s unique name.

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Brad Halfacre chats with Steve Carter from Outdoor Junction about all things hunting season! Steve gives us the scoop on the latest gear for muzzleloader season, updates on their indoor shooting range, and the exciting new line of hunting blinds hitting the shelves. He breaks down the details on CVA’s new smokeless muzzleloader — including what kind of powder it takes and why supplies will be limited this year. Steve also explains the difference between the regular and enhanced carry courses offered at Outdoor Junction and how gun laws can vary from state to state. To wrap things up, Steve shares a heartwarming hunting story he recently experienced with his granddaughter — a perfect reminder of what makes time outdoors so special.

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In this episode, Brad Halfacre sits down with seasoned hunter Jordan Patrick to talk all things deer hunting—starting with how preseason patterning can make or break your setup. Jordan shares tips on spotting tracks and markings, prepping your gear, and how to choose what to bring based on your hunting grounds. They dive into weapon prep, group hunting safety, and why “playing the wind” is key to staying undetected. From staying still to committing to the shot, Jordan breaks down the techniques that lead to a successful and ethical hunt. Plus, they touch on how technology is changing the game for modern hunters.

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