Save it for the Blind Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 65: Cooking Wild: A Culinary Journey with Scott Leysath, The Sporting Chef Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

In this flavorful episode of Save it for the Blind, Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard welcome Scott Leysath, also known as The Sporting Chef, to share his culinary journey through the world of wild game cooking. From his earliest inspirations to becoming a household name on networks like HGTV and the Outdoor Channel, Scott dives into the experiences and mentors that shaped his career.

The conversation heats up as they tackle common mistakes in preparing wild game (and how to fix them!), the unique challenges of cooking non-traditional species on his hit show Dead Meat, and the surprising animals that left a lasting impression. Plus, Scott reveals the three must-have ingredients for crafting a killer wild game dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your journey with wild game cooking, this episode offers practical tips, engaging stories, and plenty of inspiration. Tune in, subscribe to Save it for the Blind, and share this episode with your fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget to leave a review and support the art of wild game cooking!

Ep. 64 Mid-Season Waterfowl Recap: Storm Impacts, Guide Insights, and Draw Deadlines Dec 19, 2024

Show notes

In this exciting episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff Smith and Carson Odegard dive into the heart of the waterfowl season with a mid-season recap that's sure to resonate with hunters and enthusiasts alike. They are joined by two legendary guides, Casey Stafford of CICC Outdoor Adventures and Jason Adversalo of Fowl Pursuer Outdoor Adventures, to unpack the season's highs, lows, and everything in between.

The conversation explores how recent storms have shaped migration patterns, the challenges and rewards of guiding during a dynamic season, and must-know tips for hitting draw deadlines. With insider knowledge, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the minds of two of the most respected names in the field. Whether you're in the marsh or gearing up for your next hunt, this episode is packed with valuable insights and stories you won't want to miss.

Tune in, take notes, and get inspired for the rest of the season!

Ep. 62: Ducks, DNA, and the Future of Conservation: A Conversation with Dr. Philip Lavretsky Dec 09, 2024

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In this captivating episode of Save it for the Blind, Jeff, Carson, and Brian Huber welcome Dr. Philip Lavretsky, a wildlife geneticist and seasoned duck hunter from the University of Texas at El Paso. Together, they dive deep into the fascinating world of duck genetics, exploring topics like the DNA of game-farm mallards, the potential risks of gene crossing, and the groundbreaking importance of genetic research for understanding and preserving duck populations.

Dr. Lavretsky shares insights into what drew him to this unique field, the basics of duck DNA studies, and how genetic data is shaping conservation efforts. Whether you're a science enthusiast, a passionate waterfowler, or just curious about the intricate interplay between nature and genetics, this episode offers something for everyone.

Tune in, subscribe to Save it for the Blind wherever you get your podcasts, and join the conversation! Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow duck enthusiasts. Together, we can raise awareness and support the future of waterfowl conservation.

Ep. 61: Behind the Blind: Insights from California's Wildlife Area Managers Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Save it for the Blind, Jeff and Carson are joined by three exceptional wildlife area managers from California: Scott Sewell of San Jacinto, Garrett Spaan of Yolo Bypass, and Sean Brophy of the San Luis Complex. Together, they dive into the pressing questions and insights every hunter and outdoor enthusiast needs to hear:

What can hunters expect in terms of wildlife and hunting opportunities this season? Are there new updates or changes to refuge rules and management that visitors should know? What are the biggest challenges faced by refuge managers in balancing habitat conservation and public hunting access?

How do hunters and outdoor enthusiasts play a crucial role in the health and future of these lands? Plus, hear inspiring success stories of management efforts leading to thriving wildlife populations and improved habitat conditions. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, conservation advocate, or simply curious about the inner workings of wildlife refuges, this episode offers a rich and thoughtful conversation that you won’t want to miss.

Tune in and discover how the partnership between refuge managers and outdoor enthusiasts ensures a bright future for wildlife and wetlands!

Ep. 60: Chasing Dreams and Waterfowl with Chad Belding Nov 25, 2024

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In this special episode of Save it for the Blind, Jeff and Carson welcome duck hunting legend Chad Belding to the blind. Known for The Fowl Life Podcast, Banded gear, and his numerous contributions to the waterfowl community, Chad shares how his passion for duck hunting first took flight and the journey that led to creating a powerhouse of brands that hunters know and love.

Dive into the behind-the-scenes world of filming and producing waterfowl content as Chad reflects on the lessons he's learned along the way. Plus, hear why California Waterfowl holds a special place in his heart and how it continues to inspire his work. From hunting tales to entrepreneurial insight, this episode is packed with stories and wisdom every waterfowler can appreciate.

Grab your calls and settle in—this is one you don’t want to miss!

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Ep. 59: Live Q&A with Mike Kellogg Nov 18, 2024

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In this special episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff and Carson sit down with Mike Kellogg, the California Waterfowl Veteran Hunt Coordinator, for a live Q&A session that dives deep into the world of veteran hunts and what to expect this upcoming duck season. Mike shares his unique insights into the California Waterfowl's Veteran Hunt Program, revealing how the program provides unforgettable experiences for veterans while fostering camaraderie through the sport of duck hunting.

Throughout the episode, Jeff, Carson, and Mike answer some exciting and thought-provoking questions from the audience, touching on everything from what it takes to get involved in the program, to the challenges and rewards of organizing these hunts, to tips for the new season ahead.

Whether you're a veteran looking to get into hunting, a seasoned waterfowler, or someone just interested in supporting our nation's heroes, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for an informative and fun conversation that blends passion for waterfowl hunting with a deep respect for those who have served. Listen now to learn more about the Veteran Hunt Program and what the 2024 duck season holds in store!

Ep. 58 Insights and Mentorship with Holly Heyser: Breaking Down Hunter & Harvest Stats for 2023-2024 Nov 11, 2024

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In this episode of Save it for the Blind, hosts Jeff and Carson sit down with the knowledgeable and passionate Holly Heyser—writer, hunter, and mentor—to dive into some thought-provoking topics. Holly shares her take on the latest 2023-2024 Hunter and Harvest Statistics, exploring what may have led to a noticeable drop in harvest numbers. Together, they theorize on potential causes, from environmental changes to shifting hunter demographics, and discuss the valuable role storytelling plays in strengthening the hunting community. Holly also offers invaluable advice for mentoring new hunters, emphasizing the importance of patience, encouragement, and sharing knowledge. Whether you're an experienced hunter or just getting started, this conversation is packed with insights that bring fresh perspectives to the tradition and future of hunting.

Ep. 57 Preserving the Wild: A Conversation with Taxidermist Gary McDaniel Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

On today’s episode of Save it for the Blind, Jeff and Carson sit down with master taxidermist Gary McDaniel, the proud founder of McDaniel & Son's Wildlife Artistry. With a lifetime of experience and a deep passion for preserving wildlife, Gary shares his insights into the world of taxidermy, discussing everything from the detailed techniques needed to mount wild game to the art and science behind creating lifelike displays.

The conversation dives into key questions, like "How long does it typically take to mount a duck or goose?" and explores the challenges and rewards of the taxidermy trade. Whether you're a hunter, collector, or just curious about this unique art form, this episode offers a fascinating look at how wild game is carefully preserved and honored. Tune in for an unforgettable discussion that goes beyond the basics of taxidermy to the heart of wildlife artistry.

Ep. 56 Back in Action with Colton McKivitz – 49ers, 2024 Duck Season, and My Cause My Cleats Oct 28, 2024

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In this exciting episode, Jeff and Carson sit down once again with the one and only Colton McKivitz, right tackle for the San Francisco 49ers. Catching up after their last conversation, Colton shares how he's been and gives us an inside scoop on the 2024 football season. Together, they dive into the highs, lows, and surprises of the NFL, as well as the camaraderie and challenges he's faced on the field.

And as we all gear up for the 2024 duck hunting season, Colton shares his excitement for getting back out there. But that's not all—Colton also talks about his incredible collaboration with the California Waterfowl Association on “My Cause My Cleats,” where CWA will be raffling off his custom CWA Veteran Hunt cleats to support the program and conservation. This is one episode you won’t want to miss! Tune in for football, hunting, and the thrill of giving back to a great cause.

Ep. 55 Guiding Legends: Insights from Roc Merlo and Ryley Haugh of Merlo Waterfowl Co Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

In this exciting episode of the Save It For The Blind podcast, hosts Jeff and Carson welcome duck hunting legends Roc Merlo and Ryley Haugh from Merlo Waterfowl Co Guiding.

Join them as they dive deep into the art of waterfowl guiding, exploring the skills, strategies, and stories that come from years of experience in the field. Roc and Ryley share their insights on the current state of waterfowl populations, hunting regulations, and the unique challenges faced in this year's upcoming hunting season.

Whether you're an avid duck hunter or just curious about the outdoors, this episode is packed with valuable tips, unforgettable anecdotes, and a passion for conservation that inspires all. Don’t miss this chance to learn from the best in the business!

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