Save it for the Blind Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 85 From the Blind to the Bush: Jeff in New Zealand May 27, 2025

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In this unique episode of Save it for the Blind, co-host Jeff Smith checks in live from the hills of New Zealand as he takes us through the first week of his adventure abroad. From breathtaking landscapes to unexpected wildlife encounters, Jeff shares what it’s like hunting, exploring, and soaking up the local scene halfway around the world.

Carson Odegard holds down the fort stateside as the two chat about long flights, New Zealand ranches, conservation differences, and what it’s like adjusting to a new environment as a lifelong outdoorsman.

Get ready for laid-back storytelling, scenic dispatches, and a preview of what’s to come in part two of Jeff’s international waterfowl experience.

👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and drop a comment if you’ve hunted overseas or have questions for Jeff before he returns!

Ep. 84 Dialed In: Federal’s ULTRASTEEL, Sub-Gauge Trends, and the Future of Waterfowl Loads May 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with Joshua Vickers, Shotshell Product Line Manager at Federal Ammunition, to dig into the latest innovations in waterfowl ammo—starting with the highly anticipated ULTRASTEEL.

Joshua breaks down what makes ULTRASTEEL unique, from its design process and field performance to how it stacks up against Federal’s other heavy hitters like Speed Shok and BlackCloud. Whether you’re shooting over rice, timber, or open water, you’ll hear when and why this load shines.

The conversation also explores the rise of sub-gauge popularity—with insights on 16 and 28 gauge performance, TSS patterns, and how bismuth is changing the game for both upland and waterfowl crossover hunters. They unpack who’s really driving the trend (hint: it’s not just the kids), and how Federal is balancing cutting-edge innovation with affordability in a shifting market.

If you’ve been curious about new loads, gauge setups, or want to get the inside scoop on what’s coming down the pipe from Federal, this one’s for you.

👉 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment to let us know what gear, guns, or guests you’d love to hear about next!

Ep. 83 Legacy in the Marsh (Part 2): A Conversation with Dr. John Eadie on Mentorship, Waterfowl, and What Comes Next May 12, 2025

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In Part 2 of this special two-part series on Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard continue their conversation with UC Davis professor and waterfowl biologist Dr. John Eadie. This time, they dive deeper into his most memorable fieldwork stories, the conservation challenges that keep him up at night, and what the future holds for wetlands, waterfowl, and the students he’s helped guide for decades.

Dr. Eadie shares the behind-the-scenes highs and lows of major research projects, the meaning behind holding the Dennis G. Raveling Endowed Chair, and why initiatives like College Camp and the Egg Salvage Program matter now more than ever. He opens up about favorite species, unforgettable hybrid ducks, and what retirement might look like—with a mix of consulting, mentoring, hunting, and a lot more time in the marsh.

This episode is full of wisdom, humor, and heart—an inspiring look at a life lived for wildlife, education, and legacy. 👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your feedback or any topics you'd love us to cover in future episodes—your input helps keep the conversation going.

Ep. 82 Legacy in the Marsh (Part 1): A Conversation with Dr. John Eadie on Mentorship, Waterfowl, and What Comes Next May 05, 2025

Show notes

In Part 1 of this special two-part episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with Dr. John Eadie, UC Davis professor and leading authority in waterfowl and wetland ecology. With a career that’s impacted thousands of students and shaped critical conservation programs, Dr. Eadie opens up about the mentors who influenced him, the evolution of wildlife education, and the lasting impact of hands-on initiatives like the UC Davis Wood Duck Internship Program.

From unforgettable student stories to his role as the Dennis G. Raveling Chair in Waterfowl Biology, this episode offers a rare, reflective look at a legacy built on science, mentorship, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into Dr. Eadie’s fieldwork, conservation insights, and the personal moments that defined his journey.

👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your feedback or any topics you'd love us to cover in future episodes—your input helps keep the conversation going.

Ep. 81 Pintails, Wood Ducks, And Million Milestones: A post season deep dive Apr 29, 2025

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On this episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with two of California Waterfowl’s leading waterfowl biologists—Brian Huber, Wood Duck Program Coordinator, and Jason Coslovich, Egg Salvage Program Coordinator—for an in-depth look at the science, stories, and successes behind CWA’s critical conservation work.

They cover the results of this year’s pintail banding efforts, surprising data from the field, and how weather and habitat conditions shaped the season. The conversation also celebrates a major milestone: the banding of CWA’s one-millionth wood duck—and what that achievement means for the future of waterfowl conservation.

Brian and Jason also break down the Egg Salvage Program, explain how rocket netting works, and share incredible banding stories—from record-setting bird recoveries to rare hybrids spotted along the way. Plus, they offer advice on how hunters, landowners, and outdoor enthusiasts can support these vital programs and why reporting band recoveries makes a real difference for wildlife management.

If you love ducks, science, and good stories, you won’t want to miss this one!

👉 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your feedback or topics you'd love to hear us cover in future episodes! Your support helps us keep the conversation—and conservation—going.

Ep. 80 Fish and Game Commission Recap & Waterfowl Regulations Apr 21, 2025

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In this episode of Save it for the Blind, host Jeff Smith dives deep into the latest developments in conservation policy. Joined by co-host Carson Odegard, they sit down with Mark Hennelly VP of Advocacy for California Waterfowl. They unpack the recent Fish and Game Commission's approval of the 2025-26 regulations and explore what hunters can expect in the upcoming season.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of waterfowl hunting and conservation efforts.

Ep. 79 Leading the Way: A Conversation with Austin Booth, CEO of Banded Apr 07, 2025

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In this episode of Save It for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with Austin Booth, the newly-appointed CEO of Banded Holdings, Inc. Known for his remarkable leadership across law, finance, and outdoor stewardship, Booth shares his journey from serving as a Marine Corps Judge Advocate to spearheading conservation efforts as the Executive Director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. He now embarks on an exciting new chapter at the helm of Banded®, Avery Outdoors®, and Thacha®, leading the company into a future of innovation and excellence in the outdoor lifestyle industry.

Join us as Booth reflects on his passion for the outdoors, his leadership philosophy, and his vision to inspire the next generation of hunters and adventurers. With insights into the world of conservation and outdoor gear innovation, this episode is a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts and aspiring leaders alike. Buckle up for an engaging conversation that will leave you inspired and ready to embrace the wild.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode! If you enjoyed our conversation with Austin Booth, make sure to hit that like button and subscribe to our show for more inspiring stories and insights. Don’t forget to leave a review—your feedback helps us grow and reach even more listeners like you. Share this episode with your friends, and let’s keep the conversation going on social media using #SaveItForTheBlind. We’ll see you next time!

Ep. 78 Advocating for change with Mark Hennelly Apr 01, 2025

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In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with Mark Hennelly, VP of Advocacy for CWA, to dive into the critical issues shaping the future of hunting rights. They unpack upcoming legislation that could impact hunters nationwide and explore practical ways to make a difference. Whether you’re a passionate advocate or just starting to navigate the world of civic engagement, this episode offers invaluable insights on how to get involved and amplify your voice in the conversation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and stand up for what matters.

Join the Conversation and Stay Connected! We want to hear from you! Drop your thoughts, questions, or stories in the comments section below—your voice matters, and it could spark the next great discussion on the show. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to hit that like button to show your support. And for more insightful conversations like this, make sure to subscribe

Ep. 77 Behind the Brand: Chene Gear's Rise in the Hunting World Mar 24, 2025

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In this insightful episode of Save It for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with an all-star lineup of Chene Gear legends—Field Norris, Jeff Farmer, and John Strange.

These trailblazers dive into the story behind Chene's meteoric rise in the hunting industry, sharing behind-the-scenes moments, lessons learned, and the vision that shaped the brand. From innovation and craftsmanship to hunting culture and industry trends, this episode covers it all.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with passion, expertise, and the untold tales of Chene Gear’s journey.

Ep. 76 The Rise of Tanglefree Waterfowl with Corey Foskett Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Save It For the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard sit down with Corey Foskett, the President of Tanglefree Waterfowl. From the company’s humble beginnings to its evolution into a leading name in waterfowl gear, Corey shares the story behind Tanglefree’s deep California roots and how the Golden State has shaped its brand and products.

The conversation dives into the biggest challenges Tanglefree faced post-acquisition and the strategies that helped them soar above the competition. Corey reveals the innovative practices that make Tanglefree a standout in the waterfowl industry, including insights into their product development, trends shaping the future of hunting gear, and their conservation efforts to protect this beloved tradition.

Packed with inspiring anecdotes, industry wisdom, and a sneak peek into the latest Tanglefree products and upcoming plans, this episode is a must-listen for every hunting enthusiast and entrepreneur. Don’t miss Corey’s take on the role companies like Tanglefree play in keeping the spirit of waterfowl hunting alive!

Tune in to hear about triumphs, flops, and everything in between—from the field to the boardroom.

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