In this week’s episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell sits down with angler and Wild Fly Productions feature guest Willie Nelson to dive deep into his powerful journey into fly fishing and his life-changing trip to Maine for native brook trout.If you watched Wild Fly’s film from Maine, you’ve already seen Willie’s passion, grit, and gratitude on full display. In this long-form conversation, we unpack everything that didn’t make it into the film, from his upbringing, his introduction to fishing, and the often difficult transition into fly fishing, to how this trip fundamentally shifted his life and outlook on the outdoors.What We Cover:• Willie’s upbringing and how fishing shaped his early years• His tough introduction to fly fishing, failures, and breakthrough moments• The story behind being selected by Wild Fly Productions for his dream trip• His experience chasing native brook trout in the wild waters of Maine• How nature, solitude, and challenge became life-changing therapy• His growing passion for conservation and native species• The importance of “failing forward” in fishing and in life• How his community has grown since the film and the people he’s brought into fly fishing• Species he has caught since getting deeper into the sport• Plans for future fishing trips, species goals, and how the journey continuesThis episode is packed with inspiration, storytelling, conservation discussion, and the real human side of fly fishing. If you love Wild Fly, native fish, outdoor storytelling, or the meaning behind why people fish, this one is for you.🎣 If you enjoy the episode, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and drop a comment:What is your dream fly fishing trip? @WildFlyProductions  Thank you for the introduction!Wild Fly Video with Willie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1v2w65b3mABucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTkForetold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com00:00 Intro01:10 Meeting Willie Nelson03:45 Willie’s upbringing and early fishing memories08:22 How he discovered fly fishing12:51 The struggles of learning the sport17:10 Applying for Wild Fly’s Maine trip20:02 What it felt like to be selected23:48 Behind-the-scenes of the Wild Fly film29:35 Chasing native brook trout in Maine34:12 How the trip changed his life40:44 Conservation and protecting native fish45:18 Fishing as therapy and personal growth50:02 New species he’s caught since the trip54:11 Fishing goals and dream adventures58:40 Advice for new fly anglers01:02:14 What’s next for Willie01:04:50 Closing thoughts#WillieNelsonWildFly #WildFlyProductionsMaine #NativeBrookTroutFishing #BrookTroutFlyFishing #MaineFlyFishing #FlyFishingDocumentary #WildLifeOutdoorsPodcast #LearningFlyFishing #FlyFishingStruggles #FlyFishingJourney #NativeFishConservation #EasternBrookTrout #TherapeuticFishingStories #OutdoorStorytellingPodcast #FishingChallenges #DreamFishingTrip #FishingMentalHealth #FlyFishingMistakes #WillieNelson #WildLifeOutdoors

In this special Veteran’s Day episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell and Jose sit down with Cody Fongemie and Dustin Spilman from the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Armed Forces Initiative (AFI) for an in-depth conversation about veterans, mental health, public land access, and the irreplaceable role outdoor recreation plays in healing after service.Throughout this episode, Cody and Dustin share powerful stories about:• The challenges many veterans face transitioning into civilian life• Why hunting, fishing, and time outdoors can reduce anxiety and depression• How the camaraderie of outdoor communities restores purpose• The real-world impact AFI has on active-duty and former service members• Training veterans to become conservation-minded leaders• How public lands serve as therapy, community, and identityJose and Russell dive deep into how AFI works at the ground level — from local chapter leadership and mentorship programs to group hunts, fishing trips, conservation projects, and volunteer outreach. Cody and Dustin explain why public access is critical for America’s servicemen and women, and what happens when that access begins to disappear.We also explore:• How outdoor skills translate into resilience• The importance of structure, discipline, and shared suffering• How hunting ethics and conservation reconnect veterans to mission and purpose• The long-term benefits of mentorship in the field• Ways everyday citizens can support veterans OUTSIDE of politicsWhether you’re a veteran, active duty, a military family member, an avid outdoorsman, or someone passionate about conservation — this episode will educate, inspire, and challenge the way you think about access to the wild places we all depend on.🎧 Enjoying the podcast?Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and leave a comment telling us how outdoor recreation has impacted YOU.👇 Want to help support veterans?Find a Backcountry Hunters & Anglers chapter near you, donate time, gear, or mentorship, or learn how to advocate for public lands in your state.Outdoor recreation isn’t just a hobby — for many veterans, it’s survival, therapy, purpose, and community.AFI Website: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/get-involved/take-action/armed-forces-initiativeBucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTkForetold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com00:00 Welcome and episode introduction02:15 Meet guests Cody Fongemie and Dustin Spilman05:10 What the Armed Forces Initiative actually does09:45 Why public land access matters for veterans13:20 Outdoor recreation and mental health benefits17:55 The struggle veterans face transitioning to civilian life22:30 Hunting and fishing as therapy27:40 Stories from the field and community impact33:05 The importance of conservation education38:10 Suicide prevention and veteran isolation42:25 How AFI builds purpose and belonging47:00 Real world success stories51:45 How listeners can help support veterans55:30 Final thoughts from Dustin and Cody58:40 Closing message and call to action#WildLifeOutdoors #veteranmentalhealthoutdoors #publiclandaccessforveterans #outdoortherapybenefits #veteransandconservation #hownaturehelpsPTSD #veteransuicidepreventionoutdoors #veterantransitionchallenges #healingpowerofhuntingandfishing #veteransoutdoorsrecovery #outdoorprogramsforPTSD #ArmedForcesInitiative #BackcountryHuntersandAnglers #VeteransDaypodcast #veteransupportprograms #veteranadvocacy #veteranhuntingstories #veteranshelpingveterans

In this weeks episode Jose and Russell sit down with Dr Matthew Wilfong to explore one of the most unique college courses in the country The Ecology of Fly Fishing taught at St Marys College in MarylandDr Wilfong breaks down how he created this innovative curriculum and how the class blends science outdoor skills and environmental awareness to inspire the next generation of stewards of our natural resources We discuss the process of developing lessons connecting students to the natural world and teaching the fundamentals of fly fishing from an ecological perspectiveWe also dive into how this course impacts both experienced anglers and total beginners The class pushes students to think critically about conservation habitat management and how our actions influence aquatic ecosystems Dr Wilfong shares success stories from students who have discovered lifelong outdoor passions through his teachingsIf you love fly fishing conservation education or hearing about creative ways to connect people with the outdoors this episode is for youComment below and tell us if you would take a college course about fly fishing and ecologyDr. Wilfong: https://inside.smcm.edu/directory/matthew-wilfongBucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTkForetold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com#WildLifeOutdoors #MatthewWilfong #EcologyOfFlyFishing #FlyFishingEducation #CollegeFlyFishingCourse #ConservationEducation #AquaticEcology #TeachingFlyFishing #OutdoorEducation #FlyFishingCollege #StudentAnglers #BeginnerFlyFishing #RiverConservation #FlyFishingPodcast #OutdoorRecreation #MarylandOutdoors #EnvironmentalScienceClass #ConservationInspiration #FishingBiology #CollegeCurriculumOutdoors #NatureStewardship #ProtectingRivers #FlyFishingTips #SustainableFishing

In this week’s episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell and Jose sit down with Steve Hawks from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to talk about one of nature’s most powerful forces — fire.Steve breaks down the behavior of fire, how urban and rural fires differ, and what makes them spread the way they do. The conversation dives deep into how communities can prepare for the inevitable threat of wildfires and what homeowners can do to protect their property and families before disaster strikes.Whether you live in the countryside or a suburban neighborhood, this episode is packed with valuable insights, science, and actionable preparedness tips that could make all the difference when fire season comes around.Tune in, learn how to prepare, and help spread awareness about fire resilience and community safety.

Prepare you home: https://wildfireprepared.org/

Bucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTk

Foretold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com#WildLifeOutdoors #SteveHawks #IBHS #InsuranceInstituteForBusinessAndHomeSafety #WildfirePrevention #FirePreparedness #WildfireAwareness #HomeFireSafety #RuralFireBehavior #UrbanFireComparison #FireResilience #DisasterPreparedness #WildfireEducation #WildfireScience #HowFiresSpread #FireSafetyPodcast #EmergencyPlanning #CommunityResilience #PropertyProtection #HomeHardening #WildfireProtectionTips #OutdoorPodcast #ConservationPodcast #FireSeasonSafety #WildfireRecovery #ProtectingYourHomeFromFire

Join Jose and Russell this week as they sit down with Johnathan Moreland – one of Arkansas’ most accomplished traditional bowhunterstapesearch.com. A native Arkansan, Johnathan grew up hunting and eventually transitioned from modern compound bows to traditional archery gear (shooting both recurve and longbow). He’s famed for taking massive whitetails with classic bows (including a 186″ buck), and in this episode he shares stories of woodsmanship and his early hunting days. Listen in as Johnathan recounts how he discovered the art of traditional archery, and offers practical advice – from gear selection to scouting tips – for anyone getting started with recurve or longbow huntingEpisode HighlightsGuest Background: Johnathan grew up hunting in Arkansas and developed a passion for bowhunting at a young age.Traditional Archery Journey: He made the switch from compound bows to traditional equipment, embracing recurve and longbow techniquesBeginner Tips: Johnathan shares key advice for new traditional archers, including scouting strategies and gear recommendationsUpcoming Adventures: Get a sneak peek at Johnathan’s next big projects, like an Arkansas elk hunt and fresh bowhunting videos he has plannedIn this conversation you’ll hear exciting stories and actionable tips: from Johnathan’s upbringing and first deer to his favorite public-land hunting strategies. Don’t miss hearing about his record-setting hunts and future plans. And be sure to check out Johnathan’s own YouTube channel for more incredible bowhunting contentJohnathan's Links:Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/c/johnathanmorelandInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/johnathanmoreland/?hl=enSponsors :Bucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTkForetold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com#TraditionalArchery #TraditionalBowhunting #TraditionalBow #PrimitiveArchery #RecurveArchery #LongbowArchery #CompoundBow #ArcheryTips #ArcheryForBeginners #BowHunting #BowHuntingTips #ArcheryHunting #WildLifeOutdoors #HuntingPodcast #OutdoorPodcast #PodcastEpisode #PodcastInterview #JohnathanMoreland #BlacktailsOutdoors #OutdoorAdventure #NatureLovers #DeerHunting #ElkHunting

Speak Your Voice Here! https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/08/29/2025-16581/special-areas-roadless-area-conservation-national-forest-system-lands#open-comment

In this week’s episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Jose and Russell dive into the controversial topic of the Roadless Rule and the government’s push to rescind it. With over 45 million acres of wild public lands at stake, this conversation isn’t just about policy, it’s about the future of conservation, wildlife habitat, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation.We break down what the Roadless Rule is, why it was created, and what could happen if it’s rolled back. From the potential loss of pristine hunting and fishing grounds to the long-term impacts on biodiversity, access, and the outdoor traditions we hold dear, this episode sheds light on why this issue matters to anyone who values wild places.Join us for an honest discussion about the importance of protecting roadless areas, the role these lands play in conservation, and why sportsmen, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the country should care.👉 What do you think? Should the Roadless Rule be protected, or is rescinding it the right move? Drop your thoughts in the comments.#WildLifeOutdoors #RoadlessRule #PublicLands #Conservation #HuntingAndFishingAccess #OutdoorRecreation #ProtectWildPlaces #Biodiversity #NationalForests #RoadlessAreas #OutdoorPodcast #WildernessProtection #EnvironmentalPolicy #OutdoorLifestyle #HuntingPodcast #FishingPodcast #OutdoorAdvocacy #BackcountryConservation #AmericanPublicLands #OutdoorTraditions #NatureConservation #OutdoorCommunity #OutdoorAccess #ConservationPolicy #OutdoorEthics

In this week’s episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell sits down with Judson Cole, founder of Rio Anglers, for a deep dive into fly fishing, community, and conservation.

The conversation begins with a recap of the Hill Country Flood Relief Event, where Judson stepped up to organize and judge the casting competition that brought anglers together for a cause bigger than fishing. From there, Judson opens up about his upbringing, how he first discovered fly fishing, and how that passion grew into guiding trips and eventually launching his own fly shop, Rio Anglers.

Judson shares stories from the water, insights into life as a guide, and the challenges and rewards of starting a business rooted in his love for the outdoors. He also reflects on how events like the flood relief effort highlight the power of the fishing community to give back and make a difference.

If you’re interested in fly fishing, guiding, or building something that connects people to the outdoors, this episode is full of inspiration and real-world perspective.

Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more outdoor conversations and adventures!

Rio Anglers: https://rioanglers.com/

Bucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTk

Foretold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.com

#WildLifeOutdoors #JudsonCole #RioAnglers #FlyFishingGuide #TexasFlyFishing #HillCountryFloodRelief #FlyFishingPodcast #CastingCompetition #StartingAFlyShop #FlyFishingCommunity #OutdoorBusinessStories #ConservationThroughFishing #TexasOutdoors #FlyFishingLifestyle #FlyFishingStories #FlyFishingTexas #OutdoorPodcast #FishingForACause #BuildingAFlyShop #Entrepreneur #FlyFishingHeritage #FlyFishingCulture

Wriggle Brew: https://www.wrigglebrew.com/Bucked Up- https://bckd.co/vnjzgTkForetold Coffee Co.- https://www.foretoldcoffeeco.comThis week on Wild Life Outdoors, Jose and Russell sit down with Sam Baker, founder of Wriggle Brew, to uncover one of the most innovative environmental solutions we’ve ever featured. Wriggle Brew is on a mission to change the way we think about recycling, by using worms to break down plastics and transform them into nutrient-rich compost.Sam takes us behind the scenes of how his idea came to life, the early challenges of launching an eco-friendly startup, and the exciting science that makes this process possible. We discuss the massive impact this could have on reducing plastic waste, protecting our waterways, and creating sustainable systems that benefit both people and the planet.Whether you’re passionate about conservation, curious about groundbreaking recycling technology, or looking for real ways to fight plastic pollution, this conversation will inspire you to see waste in a whole new light.If you care about protecting the environment, building a more sustainable future, and supporting creative conservation efforts, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.#WriggleBrew #WildLifeOutdoors #plasticEatingWorms #plasticToCompost #recyclingInnovation #ecoFriendlyStartup #plasticPollutionSolutions #wormComposting #plasticWasteReduction #greenTechnology #startupInterview #WildLifeOutdoorsPodcast #JoseAndRussell #podcastInterview #WriggleBrewFounderSamBaker #plasticRecyclingTechnology #ecoFriendlyBusinessIdeas #compostFromPlastic #wormFarmRecycling #sustainableLivingTips #environmentalInnovation #plasticWasteManagement #ecoEntrepreneurStories #reduceReuseRecycle #plasticPollutionAwareness

In this episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell and Jose sit down with Russell Husted and Grant Powell to recap the amazing benefit event held at Middleton Brewing in San Marcos, Texas.The crew shares a full breakdown of the day — from fly tying at the bar to connecting with fellow conservationists and anglers. They talk through what inspired the event, the powerful conversations that took place, and the overwhelming support from the outdoor community. Most importantly, they reveal how much money was raised to support flood recovery efforts in the Texas Hill Country.If you were there, this episode will bring back the best moments. If you missed it, you'll hear why this gathering meant so much — and how you can still get involved.🎧 In this episode:Recap of the August 2nd benefit at Middleton BrewingFavorite stories and highlights from the dayHow the money raised will help flood-impacted communitiesWhy outdoor spaces and community matter more than everSupport the cause or find out how to help by visiting the link below:🔗 Donate here:https://cftexashillcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4201&fbclid=IwY2xjawLWMpFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFTV0JkUXk5ZTlZWDgxbzRjAR4DaLjDOM8VVGT6EZoRqPVdqTtITph3c-5YTEYPwr_tZdE6j5YDqaXVCoFohw_aem_VVpHI38XerzdaOM2-4elUQ#WildLifeOutdoors #floodrelief #SanMarcosTexas #outdoorcommunity #HillCountryFlyworks #flyfishingcommunity #floodrecovery #conservationfundraising #MiddletonBrewing #Texasflooding2025 #benefitevent #communitysupport #flyfishingTexas #outdoorpodcast #grassrootsevent #HillCountrysupport #outdoorconservation #Texasflooddonations #localfundraiser #RussellHusted #GrantPowell #Texasdisasterrelief #texashillcountry

In this episode of Wild Life Outdoors, Russell and Jose sit down with Grant Powell of Hill Country to talk about our upcoming fundraiser event on August 2nd at Middleton Brewing in San Marcos, Texas, from noon to 6 PM.With the recent devastating floods across the Texas Hill Country, this event is more than just a gathering—it's a way to give back. We dive into the impact these floods have had on the local community, outdoor recreation, and our rivers, and discuss how YOU can help support the recovery.All proceeds and donations will go toward the Hill Country Flood Relief Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. If you can’t make it to the event but want to support those affected, you can donate directly here:Hill Country Flood Relief Fund: https://cftexashillcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4201&fbclid=IwY2xjawLWMpFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFTV0JkUXk5ZTlZWDgxbzRjAR4DaLjDOM8VVGT6EZoRqPVdqTtITph3c-5YTEYPwr_tZdE6j5YDqaXVCoFohw_aem_VVpHI38XerzdaOM2-4elUQWe also chat with Grant about the role that fly fishing and community events play in healing and reconnecting with the outdoors after disaster strikes. If you love the outdoors, fly fishing, Texas rivers, and supporting local communities, this episode is for you.Join us, spread the word, and let’s make a difference—together.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more outdoor-driven conversations.#WildLifeOutdoors #HillCountryFlyworks #GrantPowell #TexasHillCountry #MiddletonBrewing #SanMarcosTexasEvent #TexasFloodRelief #HillCountryFlooding #FlyFishingCommunity #OutdoorFundraiser #TexasNonprofitEvent #SupportLocalTexas #ConservationEfforts #HillCountryRecovery #TexasOutdoorCommunity #FloodRecoveryFund #CommunityFoundationOfTheTexasHillCountry #OutdoorPodcast #FlyFishingTexas #HillCountryRivers #TexasNatureConservation #PublicLandAccess #DisasterReliefTexas #OutdoorLifestyle