Fist Full of Dirt

Send us a text This week I sit down with Keith Mark of Hunter Nation to talk about something every hunter should care about… protecting our way of life. We cover why hunting is facing more pressure than ever, how decisions made outside the woods affect what happens in them and why staying informed and engaged matters. Keith explains what Hunter Nation is doing to defend access, support science-based wildlife management and keep hunters at the table. This isn’t about politics, it’s about stewa...

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2026

Send us a text I threw a simple question out there, “what’s the best, funniest or most meaningful name you’ve ever given a deer stand or hunting spot?” and y’all absolutely showed up. For our final episode of the year, we’re reading some of your stories and getting reminded why these places mean so much to us. Behind every name is a memory, a person, a season or a lesson that sticks out. As we close out the year, I just want to say thank you for listening, sharing and being part of the ...

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2025

Send us a text There’s only one deer in my office. It’s a small four point… my bride’s first deer. And it took her several seasons to get there. She passed deer. She waited. She had to walk her own path. When I shared that story online, the comments poured in. Stories. Memories. Gratitude. People defining what a “trophy” really means to them … first deer, hunts with parents who are gone now, kids in the stand. This episode is built entirely around those responses and if you’ve ever questioned...

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

Send us a text “Laureen” recently sat down with Walker, Matt and Cranky in the Camo Cave and put them all on the mic. They swapped stories from all the years we’ve spent together outside, talked about what they’ve learned and opened up in a way they never would’ve with me in the room. I’m hearing this one fresh with all of you, and from what I’m told, there’s plenty of laughter mixed in with the nostalgia. This one’s full of memories, lessons, and a whole lot of heart from the boys who ...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2025

Send us a text This week I’m visiting with Jason Thornton, better known as The Edible Outdoors Cook. Jason grew up hunting and fishing in the heart of south Louisiana and he lives the kind of lifestyle most folks dream about. Waterfowl, whitetails, crappie, redfish, shrimping… if it comes from the land or the water, his family is putting it on the table. We dig into how he handles wild game in the kitchen, the traditions he grew up with and how he feeds friends and family with the bounty he w...

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2025

Send us a text Every Thanksgiving I fire up the microphones for our annual tradition with the girls… and this year we talk family traditions, what we’re thankful for and the stories that only come out once everybody’s full of turkey (or ham if you’re Avery). It’s exactly what Thanksgiving with this crew always feels like. Thanks for listening! Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @FistDirt TikTok: @originalturkeythug In...

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2025

Send us a text This week we’re sitting in the camo cave feeling mighty thankful. We just hit 300 episodes, so I asked listeners to tell me which moments meant the most to them… and the responses stopped me in my tracks. Your stories, your encouragement and your memories from three hundred shows reminded me exactly why we started this journey. We wrap things up with a rare visit from Yaya, who shares some of her Thanksgiving kitchen rules, dealbreakers and a few tips she swears by. This episod...

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2025

Send us a text We’re back with Chuck Sykes, and this time the conversation goes even deeper. In Part II, we break down the realities, misconceptions and tough decisions facing today’s hunters, agencies and conservation organizations. Chuck shares what most people never hear … how data, funding, access, participation and public perception are shaping the future of hunting and shooting sports. You’ll hear insight on recruitment and retention, policy challenges, social media’s impact, why opin...

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2025

Send us a text From a guide at Bent Creek Lodge to head of Alabama Game and Fish … and today CEO of the Council to Advance Hunting and Shooting Sports, Chuck Sykes has a very unique perspective on what’s actually going on in the hunting world. He has the education and experience, access to tons of good data, along with a country boy’s take on changes and opinions in today’s environment. This one is fascinating and maybe a bit alarming. Either way you need to listen and hear some cold hard fac...

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2025

Send us a text I’ve known Gerald Swindle a long time, and I’ll tell you right now … this ain’t your average fishing interview. We didn’t talk techniques or tackle, we talked life. From grit and hard knocks to faith and second chances.. this one’s about how a poor country boy fought his way to the top and never lost his humor along the way. Oh, we talk a little hunting too because that’s where his heart really is. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagr...

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2025

Send us a text We’re semi-live from the creepy camo cave for our annual Halloween special and this one will make the hair stand up on your neck… in a family friendly way of course. Every hunter’s felt it, that moment when the woods just… go silent. No wind, no birds, no reason. In this year’s spooky special I’m sharing my own story of that eerie quiet, plus some listener tales of strange things that go bump in the backwoods. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Insta...

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

Send us a text I’ve known Ted Nugent a long time and every time we talk.. I walk away inspired all over again. Nobody loves bowhunting (or lives it out loud) like Ted does. We got into everything from his early hunting days to the passion and discipline that still drive him after all these years. It’s vintage Uncle Ted.. fired up, full of wisdom and *always* rooted in respect for the hunt. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitte...

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

Send us a text I asked y’all to send me the best hunting advice you’ve ever been given … and boy, did you deliver. In this episode, I’m reading through some of your stories and sharing a few lessons that have stuck with me through the years. Some are funny, some are sentimental and some might just change the way you hunt. Thank you for listening! Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @FistDirt TikTok: @originaltur...

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

I asked y’all to send me the best hunting advice you’ve ever been given … and boy, did you deliver. In this episode, I’m reading through some of your stories and sharing a few lessons that have stuck with me through the years. Some are funny, some are sentimental and some might just change the way you hunt. Thank you for listening!    Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt:  Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @FistDirt TikTok: @originalturkeythug Instagram : @CuzStrickland Twitter: @CuzStrickland Facebook: @CuzStrickland YouTube: Cuz411

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2025

Send us a text This week I made the trip up to 2nd Amendment Outdoors in Corinth, Mississippi to hang out with Kevin Cribley, better known around here as The Saddle Guy. We got into all things archery and saddle hunting: gear setups, comfort and safety. Kevin’s one of those fellas who’s tried it all and he’ll tell you straight what works and what doesn’t. If you’ve been curious about saddle hunting… or just love good hunting talk, this one’s worth your time in the stand. Stay connect...

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

Send us a text This week on Fist Full of Dirt, I’m visiting with Jim Kuhn of The Roost Lodge and the brand new owners to talk about what’s next for one of the most beloved camps in turkey hunting. From decades of memories to fresh plans for the future, you’ll hear the full story… straight from the people keeping the spirit of The Roost alive. Change is in the air but some things stay exactly the same: good dirt, good folks and turkey hunts that feels like home. Stay connected w...

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2025

Send us a text Everybody’s got an opinion on what bucks do when the velvet comes off… coats start changing and food sources shift. But I wanted more than opinions, I wanted facts. That’s why I sat down with Dr. Bronson Strickland who’s got decades of real-time location data on whitetails. Join us as we cut through the guesswork and talk about what the deer are actually doing during that transition window. From movement patterns to food preferences.. this is the kind of info tha...

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

Send us a text This week I sat down with Madison Dixon from Mississippi State’s Agricultural Autonomy Institute. Now if that sounds fancy, it is .. but trust me, this is one of the most down to earth conversations you’ll hear about where drones and farming are headed. Madison’s not only an expert with over 1,800 hours in the air, he’s also a 5th generation Mississippi farmer. We covered everything from using drones in agriculture, to how these “uncrewed aircraft systems” are changing...

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2025

Send us a text This week I visited with Scot Evans, archery expert, bow shop owner and the man behind the wildly popular TikTok channel BowTok. If it’s got a string, a cam, or a release aid .. we covered it. From budget setups to high end gear, tuning tricks to common mistakes, Scot breaks down bows in a way that makes sense whether you’re brand new to the game or been slinging arrows for decades. Thanks for listening! Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagra...

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2025

Send us a text Back in the mid 90s we launched an outdoor TV show called Hunting the Country on TNN. Nobody knew it at the time, but it went on to run for two decades and became one of the longest standing hunting shows on national television. What made it different? We kept it about regular folks, relatable hunts and real stories. Judging by the response when I asked if you wanted to hear the full story, a lot of you still remember setting the VCR and watching with your dad. This week ...

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2025

Send us a text This week I sat down with the great Malcolm Reed from How to BBQ Right and let me tell you, not only did I get to pick his brain, I got to taste some of that award winning BBQ too. Man.. We talked about how to handle wild game the right way and Malcolm dropped some absolute gems for anybody who loves good food and the outdoors. If you like hunting, grilling or just eating, this one’s for you. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpod...

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2025

Send us a text Jim Peeler didn’t grow up in the woods.. that came later in life. And when it did, God used it to put him on a path he never saw coming. Today, he runs the Jungle Mobile Petting Zoo, a nonprofit that brings critters to special needs folks, law enforcement, first responders, veterans and more as a form of therapy and connection. Talk about a fist full of dirt! Jim’s story is about second chances, stepping into your calling and the amazing things that can happen when you let Fa...

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2025

Send us a text First time I ever went out west after elk, I was with a crew of southern rookies big on dreams and short on experience. (And funds) We hiked, we laughed, we got altitude sickness… and we didn’t kill a thing. But looking back, it turned into one of my favorite hunts ever. Sometimes the best trips aren’t about what’s in the freezer, they’re about the stories you bring home. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale ...

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2025

Send us a text We’re back with Part 2 of our bowhunting bull session with Dustin Apple, a.k.a. White River Rambo.. and we’re dialin’ it in even tighter. This round, we’re diving deeper into tuning your setup and fixing those little mistakes that can blow a perfect hunt. From old school bow tricks to confidence at full draw.. Dustin’s dishing out what every hunter needs to hear before hittin’ the woods. If you liked Part 1, you’re gonna love this one. Stay connected with Fist F...

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2025

Send us a text Strap in, bowhunters… Fist Full of Dirt is kickin’ off a special two part series with none other than Dustin Apple, a.k.a. White River Rambo. Whether you’re fixin’ to pull back a bow for the first time or you’ve been flingin’ arrows your whole life, this episode’s got somethin’ for you. We’re talkin’ gear setups on a budget, breaking down target panic, and how to find the right bow that fits you… not just what the internet says is cool. With bow season right around the...

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

Send us a text Well, we’re back… and so are the snakes. Part 2 of Cold Blooded Confessions picks up right where we left off, with more wild and weird snake stories from folks who lived to tell the tale. You’ll laugh, you’ll squirm, and you might even check your boots before steppin’ outside. Now listen, if Part 1 didn’t show up for you last time, that’s on the Apple Podcasts gremlins, not us. But don’t worry, we tacked the whole first part onto the end of this one so you don’t miss a beat.&n...

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Send us a text I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again … I don’t do snakes. And after hearin’ some of y’all’s stories? I feel like I’ve got good reason. In this episode, we’re kickin’ off Part 1 of our listener submitted snake tales. From blinds to barns, these stories had me laughin’, wincin’, and in one case, lookin’ around my feet just to be sure. Y’all did not disappoint. So grab a chair, take a deep breath, and get ready for some honest-to-goodness snake chaos straight from th...

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

Send us a text This week on Fist Full of Dirt, we’re on location at Allen Chiropractic with Dr. David Allen. He’s a longtime friend, golf partner, hunting buddy, and the guy who just helped put me back together after a rough episode with my back. We’re talking about what causes those back blowouts, how to fix one, and more importantly how to keep your back strong in the first place. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandfor...

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Send us a text This week on Fist Full of Dirt, we’ve got Keith Mark, fellow outdoorsman and founder of Hunter Nation, to talk about the proposed public land sale that had folks fired up across the country. Keith gives us the behind the scenes story of how they stood their ground with the rally cry “not an acre, not an inch”, and how going straight to the source stirred up a little controversy. This conversation sets the record straight and reminds us why we’ve got to stay sharp when ...

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Send us a text This week on Fist Full of Dirt, we’re joined by Dr. Mike Chamberlain.. wild turkey expert, lifelong hunter and the National Wild Turkey Federation Distinguished Professor at the University of Georgia. With all the rain we’ve been seeing, we had to ask, how’s this weather affecting our turkeys? Dr. Chamberlain breaks down what’s happening in the woods, what it means for young poults and what we can do to help. It’s science meets storytelling with one of the most respect...

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

Send us a text This week, I’m back from a quick trip to Georgia where I had the joy of taking my three grandsons on a guided fishing trip with Captain Mark Smith of Reel Time Guide Services out on Lake Oconee. If you’ve ever fished that lake, you know it runs DEEP in some spots. Turns out, so did our conversation. Captain Mark shares stories about his life, guiding folks in and out of the water, and what it means to truly connect with the next generation. Stay connected with...

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

Send us a text We asked and y’all delivered. This week on Fist Full of Dirt, we’re sharing some of the most powerful, funny and downright moving stories sent in by our listeners. From first birds to final hunts, quiet lessons to loud gobbles… these stories are what make turkey season special. They’re about family, faith, failure and finding something bigger than ourselves in the woods. Laureen helped pick a few that hit especially hard, and we’re reading them aloud for all to hear. Grab a sea...

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

Send us a text I’m back from the mountains of West Virginia, and let me tell you… this one’s gonna stick with me. I had the honor of hunting with Marine SgtMaj Chris Singley and spending time with 3-Star General Randy West, combat pilot, ordained minister and one of the most incredible men I’ve ever met. We laughed, we hunted and I witnessed firsthand the life changing work being done through Patriots Four, a place where wounded Veterans find healing in the outdoors. This one’s about way...

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

Send us a text We’re back in Fordyce, Arkansas, for Part Two with Sheriff Mike Knoedl and the stories just keep getting better. Before he was a Sheriff and recipient of the Medal of Freedom, Mike was a boots on the ground Game Warden. He admits that bending the rules early in his hunting life gave him an advantage. In part 2 of this episode you'll hear just how good he was. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @Fi...

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Send us a text In Part One of this two part Fist Full of Dirt we sit down with Sheriff Mike Knoedl in Fordyce, Arkansas, to discuss his incredible 30 year career in wildlife law enforcement. From humble beginnings as a Game Warden to leading the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission.. and eventually becoming Sheriff of Dallas County.. he’s worn more badges than most see in a lifetime, including a Medal of Freedom. Y'all are going to love this one. Stay connected with Fist Full of...

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Send us a text This past week I hit the road and landed deep in the heart of Texas. I sat down with Kevin Burleson and his partner Mark Bradberry of Heart of Texas Bowhunting to dive into the gritty details of chasing whitetails on legendary Texas land. We’re covering DIY hunts and what makes Texas a bowhunter’s dream. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @FistDirt TikTok: @originalturkeythug Instagram : @CuzStr...

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Send us a text We’re throwing it back to trapping season for this week’s episode, recorded right here in the Camo Cave with our good friend and trapping expert Alan Probst. Alan’s made the trip from Pennsylvania to the Deep South more times than we can count, and every visit brings real impact… on our land, our wildlife, and our understanding of both. In this conversation, Alan shares valuable tips and techniques for managing predators and explains how effective trapping can directly...

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Send us a text This week, I’m fresh back from The Roost in Nebraska, where I took two of my grandsons on a trip we’ll never forget. Middle grandson Matt wrapped up his Grand Slam with a beautiful Merriam, and Cranky, true to form, grabbed a Rio because, in his words, he “came to kill a turkey!” After hearing the boys recap their hunts, I get a little sentimental. This trip marked the end of an era, as my longtime friend Jim Kuhn is retiring from outfitting and this was our last hunt together...

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Send us a text We’re back in the Camo Cave with Andrew Maxwell and Jacob Myers of the Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast for Part 2 of our conversation… and if you thought last week was good, this one goes even deeper. In this episode, we swap more stories and dig into their early influences. Join us for a laid-back conversation with two guys who are walking the walk. Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpodcast Instagram: @moplandforsale Twitter: @FistDirt...

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Send us a text This week we’re visiting with the guys from the Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast, Andrew Maxwell and Jacob Myers. They originally came to town to interview me for their show… but of course, I had to bring them into the Camo Cave and turn the mic around. We talk hunting, podcasting and how they built a show that speaks directly to hunters. If you’ve never listened to their show, this is your intro. And if you’re already a fan, you’ll love hearing the conversation flip their way. Tu...

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Send us a text I’m back from Florida, with two of my grandsons by my side, and it was one for the books. We didn’t bring home any Osceolas, but we had some heart‑pounding encounters and a surprise discovery of what might be Florida’s best buffet according to Cranky. Sure, no turkeys fell, but watching these boys learn, grow, and share in the tradition made this trip one of my most memorable. Tune in to hear all about it! Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt:&nbs...

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Send us a text Last week, we set out to talk spring food plots with Mossy Oak founder Toxey Haas and Gamekeepers’ Bobby Cole, but the stories took over, and we took a deep dive into the history of Mossy Oak instead. This week, we’re back on track & breaking down everything you need to know about spring food plots. What to plant, when to plant, and how to set your property up for success this season.. Whether you’re managing for deer, turkey, or overall wildlife health, Toxey and Bo...

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Send us a text This week, we sat down with Mossy Oak founder Toxey Haas and Gamekeepers’ Bobby Cole to talk about spring food plots… but as conversations tend to do around here, we took a hard turn down memory lane. What started as a simple discussion about land and wildlife turned into an unforgettable storytelling session about the origins of Mossy Oak, the people who built it, and the moments that shaped all of us. Even a few stories I had never heard! If you love Mossy Oak & hunting...

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Send us a text Back from our annual Florida veterans hunt, and this one was special! Six out of seven hunters took home their first Osceola, but more importantly, they left with memories that will last a lifetime. From the power of the outdoors in healing to how you can get involved with Patriots Four and help our nation’s warriors, this episode is all about giving back, gratitude, and the bonds built in the woods. Tune in for the full recap, and if you want to support these heroes, ...

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Send us a text We’re closing out the Secret Sauce Series with nothing short of a grand slam, a sit-down with the legendary Paul Butski. I like to call him the Tiger Woods of the turkey woods. Paul’s calling skills have not only won him championship after championship, but they’ve also made him a living legend in the turkey hunting world. In this episode, we hit him with the same 20 questions we’ve asked every guest — and the answers are pure gold. If you love turkey hunting, you know...

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Send us a text The Secret Sauce Series rolls on, and this week we’re sitting down with Mike Pentecost, the man behind Woodhaven Custom Calls and a true student of the wild turkey. What happens when you ask one of the most respected turkey hunters in the country the same 20 Secret Sauce questions we’ve been asking our recent guests? You get hard-earned wisdom & game-changing tactics only a lifelong turkey addict could tell. Tune in and add a little Woodhaven magic to your own turkey huntin...

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Send us a text This week, we’re joined by YouTube creator and expert turkey hunter Shane Simpson. Shane's channel is Shane Simpson Hunting and it's worth a follow! From his early days in the turkey woods to the advanced tactics that set him apart, Shane shares his secret sauce—proven strategies, hard-earned lessons, and the mindset that makes him one of the best. Tune in and get ready to outsmart more gobblers! Leave us a message! Say Hello .. 662.350.0211 Stay connec...

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Send us a text What do you get when you ask 5 of the best turkey hunters on the planet, who live in different regions and have different styles, the same 20 questions? A treasure trove of wisdom from those who’ve mastered the game. This week, we sit down with Chris Kirby of Quaker Boy Game Calls, a true expert in turkey calling and strategy. From his deep-rooted hunting heritage to the techniques that have made him a household name, Chris shares invaluable insights, memorable stori...

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Send us a text What do you get when you ask 5 of the best turkey hunters on the planet, who live in different regions and have different styles, the same 20 questions? How about a lifetime of hard earned knowledge right in your face. From tips and tactics to unforgettable stories, this series dives deep into the minds of those who've made their mark in the turkey woods. And we’re kicking it off with the legendary Harold Knight. Tune in and get inspired by the best in the game. ...

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Send us a text Get ready for part two of our conversation with Dave Owens of the Pinhoti Project. In this episode, we get deep into techniques.. from advanced calling strategies to reading turkey behavior. Dave is answering ALL of our questions. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or gain new insights from a true expert, this is a good listen. Leave us a message! Say Hello .. 662.350.0211 Stay connected with Fist Full of Dirt: Instagram: @ffodpod...

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025