In Pursuit

Latest Episodes:

Introducing: In Pursuit with Rich Froning Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

"In Pursuit" is your definitive guide to fitness and performance in the wild. Hosted by Rich Froning—four-time CrossFit Games champion and founder of CrossFit Mayhem—this show goes beyond the hunt, diving into what drives us to test our limits in the backcountry and beyond. Each episode features raw, wide-ranging conversations with athletes, hunters, doctors, and thought leaders—from the gym to the lab to the wilderness—connecting the grit of mountain hunting to the pursuit of something deeper: purpose, resilience, and human potential in the wild.

Tune in for Episode 1 with Kip Fulks on Thursday, August 14th.

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Ep. 149: Physical and Mental Toughness and The Future of Cutting the Distance Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jason sits down with CrossFit legend, Rich Froning, to dive deep into the mental and physical toughness it takes to succeed, not just in the gym, but in the mountains. Rich opens up about his passion for hunting, what drew him to it, and how it’s challenged him in ways he didn’t expect. They explore how the intensity of elite fitness compares to the patience and grit required in the backcountry, what training really matters when you're preparing for a hunt, and how to stay disciplined when life’s full of competing priorities. From workouts and recovery to mindset and motivation, this conversation is about pushing limits, building resilience, and finding growth through discomfort, whether you’re on the trail or under a heavy barbell. If you're serious about becoming a tougher, more capable version of yourself, in the field and beyond, you won’t want to miss this one.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

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Ep. 148: The What and Why of Elk Calling Jul 31, 2025

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In this episode of Cutting the Distance, we dive into a Pendleton Whisky Q&A session that tackles some of the most common—and most critical—questions elk hunters have heading into the season. Jason Phelps shares what to do when your cameras are lighting up with elk but not many bulls, how often you can realistically expect a bull to respond to your calling, and his personal breakdown process when it comes time to put meat on the ground. He also explores where to start your search in a new unit.

Then we shift gears into calling strategy—breaking down the basic elk vocalizations every hunter should know, from cow mews to challenge bugles, and when to use them. You'll learn how to adapt your tactics as the rut progresses, how to tell a believable story through your calls, and what it means when a bull cuts you off mid-bugle. Whether you’re brand new to elk hunting or just trying to refine your setup, this episode is packed with real-world insight that can tip the odds in your favor this fall.

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Ep. 147: Elk Hunting Q&A with The Bugler Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

Dirk asked his Instagram followers to send questions regarding elk hunting. No surprise there were some smartypants questions, and some really good serious ones as well. He covers: why the Maverick diaphragm is so much better than the Pink Phelps, early season calling tactics, this year's broad head of choice, sleep talking, best calls NOT to make, optimizing your elk chuckles, stick with cow calls or switch to bugles when you get a bull to respond, calling to bulls that hang up and or run away, and more.

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Ep. 146: Elk Calling with Chris Cabral Jul 17, 2025

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Chris Cabral is an accomplished lifelong elk hunter and hunting guide. This week Dirk picks Chris' brain on trail cams, locating bulls, calling bulls, and late season rifle elk hunting tactics.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

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Ep. 145: The Kyven Bugle Tube with Kyle and Steven Bradshaw Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jason sits down with Kyle and Steven Bradshaw, the innovators behind the Kyven Bugle Tube, the first truly collapsible, full-size bugle. They dive into the origins of the idea and the long road from prototype to full-scale production. Jason shares his perspective on recognizing a great idea when he sees one, and the humility it takes to partner with someone else and bring their vision to life. From design and production challenges and trade-offs to what the future holds for Kyven, this conversation is a must-listen for hunters, gear junkies, and creative minds alike.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

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Ep. 144: Jason's Better Half, aka The Boss, Sondi Phelps Jul 03, 2025

Show notes

After many attempts, Jason was finally able to convince his wife, Sondi Phelps, to come on to the podcast and talk about her upbringing, the struggle growing the business with two small kids and full time jobs, as well as her journey to becoming a hunter, and a few stories from the hunts.

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Ep. 143: Running Dogs for Spring Bear Jun 26, 2025

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Dirk and Bradley Dammerman of Idaho Whitetail Guides catch up on Bradley's Spring bear season, and then take a deep dive into a conservation organization that Bradley jus started: North Idaho Houndsmen Association. They talk about conserving the animals hound hunters love to pursue. They also talk about issues Hunting Outfitters here in Idaho are facing with the new tag drawing system nonresidents will face in 2026.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

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Ep. 142: Spring Bear and BS Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

Jason and Dirk get back together again after a busy spring and shoot the breeze about their bear hunts. Jason and close friend Tyson, hunt bears in Idaho. Dirk hunted black bears in the great state of Alaska on an invite from Christensen Arms. They discuss the highs and lows of bear hunting and throw in a few bear hunting tips.

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

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Ep. 141: My Dad is Tougher than YOUR DAD! Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

In the spirit of Father's Day, Jason and Dirk enjoy comparing their Father's personalities and atributes. They discuss their dad's backgrounds, and reminiscing about their first times hunting with them.

Learn more at https://www.treelineacademy.net/

Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Phelps Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.