Wild Pursuits

In this powerful conclusion to our Alaska Bear Camp series, we go beyond the hunt and deeper into the heart of what makes CTO camps so transformational. You’ll hear the story of “the bear that got away”—a massive 8-foot grizzly that left everyone wide-eyed—and what it taught one young hunter about patience, courage, and faith.

We also hear from boys who share how God moved during campfire devotions, quiet times on the glacier, and unforgettable moments with their CTO brothers. From roasting hot dogs to wrestling with God’s voice in the Alaskan wilderness, this episode captures the raw beauty of a week where young men grew in their relationship with Christ.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this unforgettable two-part series, we take you deep into the Alaskan wilderness with seven boys who made history at the first-ever Cross Trail Outfitters Alaska Bear Camp. In Part 1, you’ll hear firsthand stories from the young hunters themselves—heart-pounding moments, sleepless nights, and encounters with black and grizzly bears that they’ll never forget.

Kirk and Alaska Outfitter Luke Schmidt kick off the episode with powerful reflections on calling, camp ministry, and what it takes to chase grizzlies in rugged terrain. From bear stands and glacier hikes to witnessing answered prayers and forging brotherhood in the wild, this episode is packed with raw adventure, God’s providence, and the unshakable bond between faith and the outdoors.

Come back next week for part 2!

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, Kirk is joined by Texas State Director Casey Allen and a group of boys attending CTO Texas Ram Camp. Together, they swap “So There I Was” stories—some hilarious, some intense, and many deeply moving. From chasing rams across the ranch to quiet moments in deer stands, each story reveals how God shows up in the midst of adventure.

You’ll also hear how campfire conversations lead to real spiritual breakthroughs: decisions to follow Christ, rededications, and the power of brotherhood rooted in faith. It’s a glimpse into the heart of CTO summer camps, where hunting and discipleship go hand in hand and where young men are equipped to grow in both grit and grace.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode, Kirk heads to B-Tex Ranch in Texas to meet Victor and Rhonda Bretting, landowners who have turned their property into more than just a hunting lodge. From hosting CTO ram camp to preparing home-cooked meals for dozens of boys, the Brettings have built a place where outdoor adventures and spiritual transformation go hand in hand. They share how a brochure at a local expo unexpectedly connected them to Cross Trail Outfitters and how their hearts and entire family have been changed in the process.

What starts as a conversation about land stewardship quickly turns into something deeper: legacy, faith, humility, and the quiet power of saying “yes” to what God puts in front of you.

Check out B-Tex Ranch by visiting brettingtexanranch.com.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In Part 2 of our inspiring conversation, Kevin Kepple dives deeper into what it means to live fully alive in your God-given identity. He shares powerful stories of mentorship, surrender, and leadership that encourage us to release the burden of control and walk in faith.

Kevin opens up about the early years of his journey, how he found purpose in serving others, and why your “yes” to God is more important than having all the answers. Whether you’re a leader, mentor, or simply seeking more meaning in your life, this episode will challenge and encourage you to take bold steps in obedience to Christ.

Also check out Kevin’s podcast: Unlocking Your Freedom with Kevin Kepple

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this special two-part series, we’re joined by leadership coach and Gallup-certified Strengths expert Kevin Kepple for an honest, unfiltered conversation about discovering your God-given strengths and learning how to lead from them.

Kevin shares how his own leadership journey was shaped—from success in the business world to a moment of personal clarity that led him to help others unlock their full potential. We discuss the power of StrengthsFinder, how to understand your natural brilliance, and why leaning into your strengths can help you better serve God, your family, and your calling.

Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring young men, or simply looking to grow in purpose, this episode lays the groundwork for what it means to lead authentically and effectively.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we go even deeper into practical strategies and spiritual insights around strengths-based leadership.

Also check out Kevin’s podcast: Unlocking Your Freedom with Kevin Kepple

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we sit down with the Shell family—one of the first families to connect with Cross Trail Outfitters Missouri. Their story is a powerful reflection of what happens when a family commits to raising the next generation in faith through the outdoors. From early memories at a Beast Feast to life-changing summer camps and bold spiritual growth, the Shells share how CTO has helped shape their sons into godly men and left a lasting mark on their entire family.

Full of laughter, tears, and testimony, this episode is a reminder of the eternal impact of investing in kids, living boldly, and passing on a legacy rooted in Christ. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or someone passionate about youth discipleship, their journey will both challenge and inspire you.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In this special devotional episode, Kirk Bouse shares a heartfelt reflection on walking through life’s valleys and discovering God’s faithfulness in the midst of uncertainty and hardship. Drawing from personal experience, Scripture, and honest prayer, Kirk reminds us that the wilderness can be a place of deep transformation and renewed trust in the Lord. Whether you’re on a mountaintop or in a valley, this episode will encourage you to lean into God’s presence and purpose for your life.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Nathan and Nikki Clark, the story deepens as we witness the remarkable ways God makes His plans known — even when they don’t make worldly sense.

From walking away from their family business to being gifted a century-old bar that would become the CTO Lodge, this episode is a powerful testimony of obedience, spiritual warfare, and God’s faithfulness. Hear how a long-forgotten prayer from a concert in 2011 came full circle, and how their teenage son Jonathan is now carrying the torch — literally and spiritually — as part of their family’s ministry. This isn’t just a story about hunting, fishing, and youth outreach; it’s about trusting God with every unknown and watching Him redeem every chapter.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.

Sometimes God speaks loudest in the quiet moments — even from a deer blind in rural Wisconsin. In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Nathan and Nikki Clark to trace their unexpected road to full-time ministry with Cross Trail Outfitters.

You’ll hear how their story began with a music ministry, shifted through farm life and excavating, and ultimately led to discipling youth and leading a CTO chapter. Along the way, they share the doubts, sacrifices, and confirmations that shaped their obedience. It’s a powerful reminder that God doesn’t waste a single season.

To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org.