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The Hunt Backcountry Podcast — Outdoor
The Hunt Backcountry Podcast

Backcountry hunters talking backcountry hunting. No advertisers or sponsors, no fluff, no BS. We discuss tactics, strategies, gear, hunt stories, and more — featuring a wide variety of guests, from industry experts to everyday listeners of the show.

Your hosts, Steve & Mark, have decades of experience hunting the mountains for elk, deer, bear, antelope, sheep, mountain goats, moose, caribou, and more.

While this podcast is 100% independent and free from advertising or sponsorship, it is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear, which we own and operate. Exo’s mission is to build the best backcountry hunting pack systems available, provide the best service possible, and do it all right here in the USA. Learn more at: https://exomtngear.com/

Contact us at any time with your questions or feedback by emailing us: podcast@exomtngear.com. Or visit the searchable archive of all podcast episodes we have published over the past decade at: https://exomtngear.com/podcast.

Thanks for listening! —Steve & Mark

Copyright: © All rights reserved

Latest Episodes:

MM 312 | Time To Eat, Water Crossing, Pad Protection & More... Oct 19, 2026

Show notes

In this "Monday Minute" episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, Steve and Mark answer listener questions on pack loading, sleeping pad protection, strategies for wet hunts and water crossings, advice for hunters who struggle to eat enough, and more...

PRODUCTS & RESOURCES MENTIONED...

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

597 | Sub-Zero Endurance & Thriving In Adversity with Joshua Brown Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Mark is joined by Joshua Brown—an accomplished Alaskan hunter and the only person to complete the historic 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail on foot, bike, and skis. Drawing from his background in extreme winter endurance events and backcountry hunting, Josh breaks down how to survive, perform, and make critical decisions when pushing into remote shoulder-season and sub-zero environments.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

The Human-Powered Iditarod: Josh explains the history of human-powered Iditarod events, comparing the unique demands of completing the 1,000-mile trek via foot, fat bike, and cross-country skis.
Extreme Cold Hydration & Fueling: Why dehydration happens faster in sub-zero temps, methods for keeping water systems from freezing, and why calories act as the internal furnace against hypothermia.
Nutrition & Palate Fatigue: Balancing high-fat and carbohydrate needs with real-world palatability on long-duration backcountry events.
Cold Weather Injury Prevention: Practical steps to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, including proper foot fitting, the strategic use of vapor barriers, and recognizing early warning signs of problems.
The "Oh Crap" Bag & Self-Rescue Mindset: Why every hunter and adventurer must carry an emergency dry bag with dry base layers and a sleep system, treating self-rescue as the only reliable option.
Layering & Moisture Control: Implementing the "cool, not cold" motto to prevent wetting out clothing through sweat, and choosing quick-drying synthetics/fleeces over hard-to-dry alternatives.

Resources & Recommendations:

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

596 | Elk Hunting, Brotherhood, & An Unexpected Medical Emergency Oct 07, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, we hear from Levi Barkas and his 15-year-old son, Wyatt, alongside Wyoming hunter Zimmy. What started as a chance encounter at a trailhead during an elk hunt turned into an incredible story of backcountry camaraderie, a sudden medical emergency, a rescue operation, and key takeaways for hunting public land safely.

Key Topics & Takeaways...

Backcountry Connections: Levi, Wyatt, and Zimmy share how a random meeting at a Wyoming trailhead led to a joint hunt and a lasting friendship.
Elk Hunting Tactics: Why heavy cow calling can be the "golden ticket" over bugling in thick country or late-season scenarios; managing satellite bulls vs. herd bulls in dense cover; and lessons learned on midday moves, spot-and-stalk tactics, and letting the herd settle down before pushing in.
The Medical Emergency: While hanging out at midday, Levi suddenly lost all function on his left side and fell to the ground with stroke-like symptoms.
Garmin InReach & Rescue Response: The critical role of satellite communicators even when cell service seems available, a step-by-step account of the short-haul helicopter extraction and Wyatt’s ride out in the "screamer suit", a breakdown of Search & Rescue operations and associated costs.
Culture on the Mountain: The willingness of fellow hunters to step up and help in times of need.

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

MM 311 | Gear Q&A (Solo with Mark) Oct 05, 2026

Show notes

In this "Monday Minute" episode of the Hunt Backcountry Podcast, host Mark runs solo while Steve is out, answering gear-focused listener questions. Mark breaks down some of his gear choices and strategy for a recent 10-day interior Alaska packraft hunt, discussing down vs. synthetic insulation, merino base layers, wet-weather moisture management, replacement options for discontinued boots, sharpening knives with angle guides, and his current everyday phone case setup.

PRODUCTS & RESOURCES MENTIONED...

Sleep System: Katabatic Alsek
Apparel: Sitka Kelvin LT, Outdoor Vitals Vantage Alpine Down Jacket, Argali Clothing (Merino Hoodie not yet released), Orange Gripper Nitrile Gloves
Boots & Accessories: Meindl Air Revolution Alpine Light Hiker, Metatarsal Pad Insoles, Grakksaw Boot Dryers, Mountain Hunter Outdoors Boot Dryers
Knives & Sharpening: Mark's Sharpening Technique (Video), DMT (Non-Guided) Folding Sharpener, Work Sharp Folding Field Sharpener, Alaska Blade Works Wrangell Knife
Digiscoping & Accessories: Rokform Phone Case, Mountain Mag Digiscoping System

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

595 | The Experience Challenge Sheep Hunt Winner (After the Hunt) Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Mark sits down once again with Brian, the winner of The Experience Project sheep hunt, to recount the complete story of his Alaska adventure. Returning after his pre-hunt conversation on Episode 592, Brian details the wild logistics, unexpected challenges, and incredible success of his trip to the Brooks Range.

Key Topics & Takeaways...

Travel & Tag Logistics: Facing lost locking tags right before departure, flight delays, and a high-stakes airport sprint, Brian highlights how a generous podcast listener in Fairbanks stepped up to save the trip.
The "Hurry Up and Wait" Reality: Weather delays in Coldfoot and the mindset required to navigate classic Alaska travel logistics.
Gear & Mental Adjustments: Shifting from a DIY mindset to trusting experienced guides (Joey and Sam), making quick gear decisions, and learning to stay present in the moment.
Day-One Success: Spotting a band of nine rams, executing a careful stalk across steep shale terrain, and taking a successful 470-yard shot on his target Dall sheep.
Life in Camp After the Hunt: Weathering incoming Arctic snowstorms in the tent, enjoying fresh ram heart and backstrap fajitas, and packing meat and horns back out.
Reflections on The Experience Project: How months of consistent effort and preparation paid off, the connections made with fellow hunters along the way, and practical tips for flying home with meat and horns.

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

MM 310 | Hunting Burnout, Short Rifles, Tall Packs, & Bad Water Sep 28, 2026

Show notes

In this Monday Minute, Steve and Mark answer your listener-submitted questions on a variety of topics, including...

Hunting Burnout: What to do when you don't enjoy the hunt any longer?
Short Rifles: Do we have any regrets using 16" barrels on our big game hunting rifles?
Tall Packs: How does frame height influence pack comfort and performance for tall people?
Bad Water: What to do if your water tastes like a tire when you drink from your water bladder?

RESOURCES...

Nick Peters Memorial Fund: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-nick-peters-memorial-fund
Short Barrel Speeds & Effective Range for Hunting: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/short-barrel-speeds-and-range-for-hunting

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

In Memory of Nick Peters Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

In Memory of Nicholas "Nick" Peters June 19th, 1992 - September 15th, 2026
Nick was wholeheartedly devoted to his wife and three children. He loved his family and dedicated his life to mastering skills as a bush pilot, welder, and outdoorsman to selflessly provide for them. He had an admirable work ethic, a wild sense of humor, and an unwavering ability to authentically connect with people. He will be missed across Alaska and beyond.
Support Nick's Family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-nick-peters-memorial-fund
Additionally, donations can be made to Nick's family via check or card by contacting Stoddard's Aircraft Parts at 907-272-2327, or via Venmo to @nickpetersfund.
Our podcast with Nick: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/472

MM 309 | Life is too short. Solo Gear. 22 Creed. Ranging Elk. Sep 21, 2026

Show notes

In this Monday Minute, Steve and Mark catch up on what they've been up to over the past few weeks. Before they dive into listener questions, they share the unfortunate news about the death of a friend, former podcast guest, and beloved member of the hunting and flying community in Alaska, Nick Peters.

LISTENER QUESTIONS...

22 Creedmoor: Our experience with it so far. And how we'd compare it to the 6mm Creed?
Ranging Elk: Is the "risk" of ranging worth it for archery encounters?
Boned-Out Meat: Can bone-out when evidence of sex is required?
Gear for Going Solo: What gear changes (additions or subtractions to the pack) on a solo hunt compared to a shared hunt?

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

594 | Overcoming Limits in the Backcountry with Dan Jordan Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, we hear from former Olympic-level rifle athlete and coach Dan Jordan. After a rock climbing accident left him paralyzed at age 19, Dan adapted his mindset and physical approach to continue hunting remote backcountry wilderness, and even hunting solo from his wheelchair. In this inspiring and practical conversation, Dan shares his perspective on overcoming physical barriers, mastering shot execution, and cultivating the mental discipline required for backcountry success.

Key Topics & Takeaways

The Mindset of "Radical Acceptance": Rather than dwelling on limitations, Dan emphasizes identifying reality as it is, eliminating excuses, and immediately focusing on the next actionable step.
Saying "I Can't" is a Choice: How hunters often limit themselves with mental barriers—whether regarding difficult pack-outs or staying present during long sits—and how changing your framing unlocks new opportunities.
Translating Olympic Precision to Big Game: Lessons from high-level competitive shooting, including shot process mechanics, narrowing focus into a "funnel," and managing target panic or "buck fever".
Mastering Recoil & Follow-Through: Why follow-through is critical for spotting impacts, calling shots, and staying focused through the break, alongside the value of using trainer rifles to build proper habits.
Solo Wilderness Hunts from a Wheelchair: Incredible stories of grit, from engineering custom three-wheeled rigs for solo turkey hunts to harvesting bulls deep in non-motorized wilderness areas.
Patience as Mental Toughness: Why sitting motionless in a hot blind or enduring hours in the snow requires the same level of mental endurance as a grueling backcountry pack-out

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

Email Sign-up: https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

MM 308 | The Truth About Waterproof Hunting Packs (And more...) Aug 24, 2026

Show notes

In this Monday Minute, Steve and Mark unpack the realities of water resistance in hunting packs, break down why no modern pack is truly 100% waterproof, and explain how seams, zippers, and DWR breakdown impact performance. They also dive into satellite messaging distractions, the critical trade-offs between pack weight and backcountry performance, and why traditional rain covers do more harm than good.

TOPICS COVERED...

Satellite Messaging & Focus: Managing off-grid connectivity and keeping your mind on the hunt.
System Trade-offs: Balancing pack weight, comfort, rifle accuracy, and backcountry endurance.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: The truth about technical fabrics, seam failure, DWR degradation, and zipper leaks.
Rain Covers vs. Dry Bags: Why rain covers fall short and how an internal dry bag liner keeps critical gear safe.

RESOURCES MENTIONED...

Sleep Better in the Backcountry: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/article/sleep-better-on-backpack-hunts
onX SOS: https://www.onxmaps.com/sos
Roundtable Podcast Series: https://exomtngear.com/roundtable
Exo Dry Bag Liners: https://exomtngear.com/drybag

The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/

EXO INSIDER NEWSLETTER — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

VIEW & SEARCH THE PODCAST ARCHIVE: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

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