Brad Halfacre welcomes Steve Carter from Outdoor Junction to talk all things gear, guns, and archery. Steve gives listeners a rundown of the store’s many departments—from firearms and ammo to archery and outdoor supplies—and highlights their indoor shooting range, including pricing and how it all works. He also discusses the store’s gun safety and permit classes, led by experienced staff. With bow season fast approaching, Steve urges hunters to bring in their equipment early for repairs to avoid long wait times and explains what to look for when checking for bow damage. He also touches on the ever-evolving world of archery equipment and how Outdoor Junction stays stocked with the latest gear.

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In this episode, Brad Halfacre sits down with John Conrad, a retired radar electronics program manager turned passionate trailblazer in Fairfield Glade. John shares the inspiring story behind the creation of Cumberland County’s thriving hiking trail network and the annual month-long Hiking Marathon that now draws over 3,000 participants. From kid- and pet-friendly trails to a special 10K for those with physical challenges, there's something for everyone. He also teases the epic 100-mile "Ultra Hike" challenge held each spring. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a new outdoor adventure, this episode will get you lacing up your boots!

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Brad Halfacre welcomes Steve Carter from Outdoor Junction to talk all things gear, guns, and archery. Steve gives listeners a rundown of the store’s many departments—from firearms and ammo to archery and outdoor supplies—and highlights their indoor shooting range, including pricing and how it all works. He also discusses the store’s gun safety and permit classes, led by experienced staff. With bow season fast approaching, Steve urges hunters to bring in their equipment early for repairs to avoid long wait times and explains what to look for when checking for bow damage. He also touches on the ever-evolving world of archery equipment and how Outdoor Junction stays stocked with the latest gear.

Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Today!

Brad Halfacre sits down with Ranger Justin Vaughn from Edgar Evens State Park to talk all things summer safety. From fire safety and how to properly build, control, and extinguish a campfire, to staying cool and hydrated in the heat, Justin shares essential tips for protecting your family during outdoor adventures. They cover everything from water safety laws and watching kids near water, to tick and mosquito prevention and heat-related precautions like checking the back seat and wearing proper clothing. Whether you're hitting the trails or the lake, this episode is packed with practical advice to keep your summer fun and safe.

Brad Halfacre sits down with Jerry Shanks, a seasoned coyote hunter and trapper from Silver Point, Tennessee. Jerry shares the importance of managing coyote populations, explaining how these invasive predators can pose serious threats to livestock and native wildlife. He dives into the gear needed for successful coyote hunting, year-round hunting laws, effective techniques, and signs to watch for before heading out. Jerry also emphasizes the importance of respecting private land when helping others control local coyote populations.

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Brad Halfacre sits down with Tammy Wright, one of the original members of the Red Silo Runners. Originally from Nashville, Tammy shares how a casual walking group with friends after lunch at Crawdaddy’s grew into a vibrant community centered around the Red Silo Brewing Company. With over 800 online members across the country, the Red Silo Runners welcome walkers, joggers, and runners of all levels—no membership required, just a friendly attitude and a love for staying active. Tammy also talks about the group’s involvement in local events, fundraising for shelters through marathons, and how their church-rooted, family-friendly atmosphere keeps their community strong and growing.

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Brad Halfacre chats with Tonya and Joey Posten, owners of Old Mill Campgrounds, located right next to Cummins Falls State Park. They share what makes their campground special including 41 RV sites with electricity, water, and Wi-Fi, as well as cozy cottages and two Airbnb rentals. Tonya and Joey talk about booking details, pricing, upcoming local music events, and the joy of camping as a way to relax and unplug (even though Wi-Fi is still available). They also highlight local treats from the nearby Muddy Pond Amish store—which recently had a visit from Reba McEntire’s son, who stopped in to enjoy some of the homemade food.

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Brad Halfacre sits down with Mandy and Jenny from the Putnam County YMCA to talk about the wide range of programs they offer for families and individuals of all ages and abilities. With over 30 years of combined experience at the Y, they share details about youth day camps, swimming lessons for all ages, and soccer clinics that will prepare you for their Soccer Saturdays. A big focus of the conversation is water safety—including their "Phone Down, Eyes Up" campaign, which encourages parents to stay alert and engaged at the pool. They also share a fun, catchy tune to help kids remember how to wear life jackets properly, and explain how to reserve pool lanes and sign up for public or private adult swim lessons.

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Brad Halfacre chats with Ranger Kristen Willis from Burgess Falls State Park to dive into the challenges and beauty of the Window Cliffs Trail—a 5.4-mile hike she describes as strenuous but rewarding. Kristen shares tips on how to stay safe and prepared on the trail, and gives details about upcoming events in July, including night hikes, nature hikes, and the Advanced Junior Ranger Program. She also discusses the park's impressive transformation of a 7-acre grassland area, once 85% overrun by invasive species, now restored to native habitat teeming with wildlife. Tune in to hear Kristen’s journey into becoming a park ranger and how you can get involved in the park's guided hikes and programs.

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Brad Halfacre sits down with Lieutenant Mike Beaty from the TWRA to talk all things boating safety. They cover where and how to access both in-person and online boating education classes, share a quick pre-trip boating checklist, and explain how to be prepared for emergencies on the water—including the importance of creating a "float plan." While the focus is on boating, they also touch on a few key updates to Tennessee's hunting and fishing laws that outdoor enthusiasts should know.

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