Gamekeeper Podcast

On this episode we catch up with Kevin VanDam, one of our favorite Gamekeepers, to learn about his turkey season and what work he is doing for the upcoming deer season. Kevin is a fervent outdoorsman and loves improving his farm for wildlife. Apparently, what he is doing is working and we all can learn from his success as well as his trial and errors. It’s all about deer and turkeys. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forg...

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Johnny Wilson, PhD, of Central Life Sciences to explain the invasive red and black imported fire ants (Genus Solenopsis). In the South these tiny ants are everywhere, and we wondered if and how they impact the wildlife we so dearly love. The short answer is YES, they do! We wanted to learn about how they got here, how they operate, how to deal with them and can we control or at least suppress them without harming birds, reptiles, mammals and even other be...

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

On this episode we’re joined by two scientists from the US Geological Survey and we discuss the precipitous decline of many wild birds across America. Dr. Jeff Hostetler and David Ziolkowski explain the USGS breeding bird survey process and the data that’s been collected for almost 60 years on the many wild birds species we all seem to take for granted. It’s shocking to learn of the big decline in many of them. It’s an interesting and insightful, yet alarming discussion. Listen, Learn ...

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

This week we play part two of our conversation with the legendary women's basketball Coach Vic Schaefer. It’s the powerful story of his sons accident and his road to recovery. He talks and we listen. In fact, the story is so powerful we decided to not insert commercials to prevent interrupting this meaningful and often tearful telling of a very trying time in his family. You’ll be moved. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a m...

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

On this episode we talk about hunting bullfrogs with Danny Moreland. Danny is an avid hunter and owns TigerBack Lodge in Arkansas and chases bullfrogs with a passion. Frog gigging has long been a part of rural lifestyle and each state has its own rules. It’s interesting to hear how it’s done and oh by the way, the legs are delicious. Danny is also an excellent cook and prepares 100 legs for us to eat prior to recording. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper...

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

This week we are joined by legendary Coach Vic Schaefer. Considered to be one of the best collegiate women’s basketball coaches of all time, Coach is also a rabid turkey hunter and fisherman. He has produced national title contending basketball teams at Mississippi State and now Texas. He joins us in person to tell sports stories, hunting and fishing stories and explains how the outdoors helps him relax. It’s a fun podcast. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this...

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

On this episode we are joined by Jordy Veillon of Louisiana to explain crawfish farming. Crawfish boils are a spring/summer tradition across the South that is gaining popularity elsewhere. But do you know the whole process of raising them from seed to the boiling pot? Jordy is pure Cajun and entertains the group with his wit while explaining the whole process of raising crawfish to sell. We ask questions from feeding ducks to largemouth bass, and finally how to best cook and eat mudbugs...

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Dr. Ned Miller in studio to explain snake bites and provide a road map of what to do plus what to expect. Ned is a serious hunter himself and understands the scenarios a hunter/fisherman could find themselves facing. Gamekeepers working on a property face many chances to encounter venomous snakes and stinging insects, and everyone needs to have a plan. Dr. Ned explains it all. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeepe...

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Dr. Guy Harvey. Most folks will recognize the name from his amazingly detailed artwork that beautifies everything from tee shirts to murals all over the world. But his story is one of a love for fishing, the salt water fisheries and dedicating his life to understanding and conserving the oceans and its resources. Much of his understanding of fish and fishing was learned underwater with cameras in hand. It’s a fascinating discussion with a man who’s story is int...

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

On this episode we are joined by frequent guest and wild turkey researcher Dr. Marcus Lashley. Fresh from a Mississippi turkey hunt, he sits down and we discuss the latest research findings from his captive poult research project at the University of Florida. The birds are 11 months old now and he and his team have learned so much. Its an interesting discussion. Listen, Learn, Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your c...

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2026

This week we’re joined by Mr. Allen Jenkins who spent his decades owning Lynch calls and turkey hunting. Mr. Jenkins is tells the story of how he first met M.L. Lynch and how their lives intertwined around a love of turkeys. He is a great story teller and we enjoyed each one he told. It’s a walk back in time and a chance to meet a very private person that’s had a big impact on the sport of turkey hunting. Listen, Learn, Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys ...

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

On this episode we are joined by Dr. Bronson Strickland and Mitt Wardlaw of Wildlife Investments to discuss the highly intriguing and somewhat mysterious warm season annual American Joint Vetch. It’s commonly referred to as Deer Vetch, or its proper name is Aeschynomene. Whatever you call it, it’s a fantastic deer forage that tolerates heavy browsing like a champ. We learn that it fills a late summer gap, where to plant it, how to plant it and what to expect. Vetch sounds like the answ...

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Mark McPhail of Collinsville, Mississippi, to talk turkey and turkey calls. Mr. McPhail is a long time turkey hunter, call maker and call collector who loves turkeys. It’s evident when he mentions dressing for work in a coat and tie in the field after a hunt, which demonstrates his love for going every morning he can. We also learned these short morning hunts he does seem to set up an afternoon hunting strategy that seemed to work for him. His collection ...

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

On this episode we get midseason updates from most of the crew on their turkey season. There are some good stories and none better than Dudley Phelps son Little Dud and his first turkey. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! Support the show Stay connected with GameKeepers: Instagram: @mossyoakgamekeepers Facebook: @GameKeepers...

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2026

On this week’s episode we are joined by avid hunter James Buice, who’s dad Mr. Billy Buice was a legend in the turkey call makers community. James loves wild turkeys, the traditions around hunting them and being a free spirit, traveling to wherever the weather is good during the spring turkey season. James tells us stories about his dad, wild turkeys and the interesting trumpet calls that are the craze right now. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. Buice Website: http://www.buic...

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

On this episode we are joined by the turkey hunting legend Ernie Calandrelli. Big Ern has been around for more years than he cares to admit and he shares some great stories, wisdom and insight. We discuss how the gobblers head coloration explains his mood plus how his hunting style has changed through the years. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a pri...

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2026

On this episode we are joined by Jim Zumbo, a legend in the hunting and outdoor writer world. He has truly been there and done it. The man has killed deer in all fifty states, elk in all the western states and has hunted all over the world. Mr. Zumbo has had more hunting experiences that most of us can dream about and it was our pleasure to sit down with him and just listen. He has a great story to tell and we know you’ll appreciate it. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoy...

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2026

On this episode we are joined by Andrew McKean, the Hunting & Conservation Editor for Outdoor Life. Andrew has the craziest elk hunting story we can recall hearing. The West has thousands of acres of landlocked public hunting opportunities that are more-or-less inaccessible. There has been much debate about corner crossings in the last few years. After drawing tags and studying maps, Andrew and his buddies thought they’d found the perfect answer when they decided to have a helicopter drop...

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2026

On this episode, we are joined by legendary turkey call maker Lamar Williams. Mr. Williams is a true treasure, and it was fascinating to hear him share his journey of learning how to make turkey calls and how to turkey hunt. Collectors have sought after his calls for years, and the craftsmanship and sound are truly impressive. Be sure to stay tuned until the end to hear him run several box calls. Listen, Learn, and Enjoy. Get in contact with Lamar William : 904-964-5691 If you enjo...

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2026

On this episode we are joined by Chad Anchors who makes a wingbone style cane yelper out of readily available bamboo that he explains and demonstrates. We’re all looking for a call that can give us an edge, a unique sound, and these cane yelpers seem to have just that. It’s an interesting discussion about how these calls came to be, how they work and how to run one. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to includ...

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2026

This week we’re joined by Brent Rogers who has fast become the authority on the history of turkey calls. Brent has a vast collection but more importantly has dedicated his free time to learn the history to the calls. It would be hard to imagine anyone knowing more about the infancy of the call business and collecting the old calls that are worth serious money. They are still out there to find through estate sales, unknowing friends and internet sites. His new book The Origins and Evolut...

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Pat Newcomb of Nukem blinds to talk about the many benefits of using a blind. Is there anything more old school than building a blind to hide? However, today’s modern camouflage doesn’t dictate you use blinds now but there are many situations where a blind adds value. Pat explains many of them and they all made sense. We had a great discussion about hunting and hiding. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a ...

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2026

On this episode we’re joined by old school custom call maker and turkey hunter Pat Strawser. He has a great story and his calls are incredible. He is also a successful competitive caller so he understands how to get the best sounds out of a friction call. We learn about different slates and why he thinks the slate call is one call worth learning to master. It’s an interesting discussion with stories that will take you back in time. Listen, Learn and Enjoy If you enjoyed thi...

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2026

On this episode, we are joined by Pastor Joby Martin, who explains his intense passion for hunting. We also learn how the woods and the outdoors play a huge role in inspiring his soul stirring sermons and why he views it as an incredible way to reach men. We ask him about his thoughts on getting kids interested in hunting and what it means to be a man in today’s world. As expected, it’s a fun and enlightening conversation. We are also joined by local pastor John Oliver, who adds his own thoug...

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2026

This week we are joined by Chip Davis who is a serious turkey hunter and trapper. Chip’s seen the positive results of trapping and how it has impacted the properties he hunts and he also explains what he has learned. We were a little surprised to learn what animal he thinks is responsible for more adult turkey deaths but hearing his explanation made perfect sense. He is actively involved in Turkeys for Tomorrow and explains some of their ongoing research. You’ll learn a lot in this one as we ...

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2026

On this episode we’re joined by legendary golfer and more important to us, serious turkey hunter, Davis Love III. He had a remarkable career playing golf with too many accolades to list, but even with all the attention he remembered the quiet mornings in the spring with his granddads shotgun and has ardently remained a turkey hunter to his core. Davis talks about his love of turkey hunting, his first turkey, his infatuation with collecting calls and the effort he puts into managing wildlife o...

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2026

On this episode we’re joined by one of our favorite turkey hunters, Dave Owens, to discuss the upcoming turkey season. We can always learn something good from Dave. He answers our questions about turkeys and turkey hunting and just talking turkeys has us even more excited for spring turkey season. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! Su...

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2026

On this episode we are joined by legendary gunsmith Rob Roberts to discuss shotgun performance and specifically turkey guns. Rob has years of experience improving how shotguns perform and always has something interesting to explain. We discuss forcing cones, TSS and chokes, the sub-gauges and much more. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! Support t...

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2026

On this episode we’re joined by custom call maker Mark Six to talk turkey calls. Mark has been around the calling world for quite a while and he is known for making a quality call. We asked him to sit down and tell us the process of making and tuning his box calls along with explaining other calls. It’s a interesting discussion. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can re...

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Dave Edwards a certified wildlife biologist and rabid outdoorsman. Dave has managed properties all over the South and now concentrates his efforts mostly in Florida with his hunting and wildlife consultant business Tall Tines. We discuss a number of topics deer and turkey related including understanding vetch a bit better, wild flowers, tips on judging bucks age and we hear some Florida panther stories. He also has a great story of getting bit by a ...

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2026

This week we’re joined by Dr. Mike Chamberlain of the University of Georgia, a leading wild turkey researcher. Mike brings us up to speed on some interesting recent research, including Wild Turkey DNA and what gamekeepers can do right now to improve their property for the season. We also discuss why turkey flocks in many areas should be coming out of winter in great shape. It’s an interesting conversation. Listen, Learn, and Get Ready for spring. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, ...

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2026

On this episode, we’re talking turkeys with Dr. Will Gulsby and Dr. Marcus Lashley. They break down recent university research, answer your questions, and share insights just in time for turkey season. Nothing better than talking about our favorite bird with the season on the horizon. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! Support the show Stay conne...

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026

On this episode we are joined by a true fire expert, John Stivers, to explain prescribed fire and its many virtues. John has burned more than a million acres in his career and he teaches courses to help others be comfortable with the entire process. We all learned so much. It’s an interesting discussion that celebrates fire on the landscape. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we...

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2026

On this episode we are discussing techniques and lures for catching pre-spawn largemouth bass. We are joined by Cody Tedford of Toad Thumper Lures and Cody Cannon of Whiskey Myers who is a diehard bass fisherman and obsessed lure designer. The two guys have teamed up to create some amazing baits. What are the classic baits and tactics used pre-spawn and what’s some outliers that should be tried. Cody Cannon shares what he has learned from his years of bass that most anyone could benefit...

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2026

This week we are joined by Dr. Brad Cohen and Jim Ronquest to address the recent allegations by Louisiana State Senator, John Kennedy, that flooding standing corn in the certain central states like Missouri is short stopping ducks and preventing them from completing their migration. It’s a controversial argument that’s been going for a while but has recently gotten more attention. We find out what the science says. Listen and Learn. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a mess...

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Matt Brock and Brae Lynn Stagert, two experienced wildlife biologists. We focus the discussion on how to eradicate invasive plants like privet and other unwanted species through various methods like hack and squirt. Some folks call it forest stand improvement or timber stand enhancement but no matter the name, it’s worth paying attention to and this is a great lesson on just what can be done along with how to do it. The two put on a clinic that takes a task tha...

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2026

This week we are joined by expert outfitter Grant Kuypers of Buck Paradise in Saskatchewan Canada. We’ve all dreamed about hunting the big bodied, heavy horned whitetails that are produced in the Great White North. From long quiet days on the stand, hearing wolves howl, to enduring freezing temperatures and finally seeing a buck larger than you have ever imagined, Canada consistently produces giants. Why? How? What could we learn? How and when do they hunt? How can these deer survive th...

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

This week we’re joined by prolific the outdoor writer/adventurer, J. Wayne Fears. Mr. Fears has been writing both books and articles pertaining to the great outdoors for decades and is an authority on many facets of the great outdoors, including: hunting, fishing, trapping, shotguns, rifles, ammunition and outdoor cooking and camping and more. His profession turned him into a world traveler and he has many a story to tell. It’s a great listen and one that will inspire you to push ...

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2026

This week we talk to Dr. Brad Cohen of Tennessee Tech about migrating waterfowl and his latest research. Brad is a serious waterfowl scientist and we learn something every time we talk with him. Brad discusses a research project looking at what influences where mallards settle, plus what does a landscape need to look like to get ducks to choose it during winter and then return the next year. We also discuss hunting pressure, how it affects hunter success and how adding small rest areas increa...

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Dr. Scott McWilliams of URI to discuss a super secretive bird, the American Woodcock (Scolopax minor). There’s a lot to learn here and Scott does a masterful job explaining the idiosyncrasies of this unique species. We discuss their migration habits, breeding displays, peenting, hunting techniques, the difference between a woodcock and a snipe, how they trap them for studies and just what does a bird that eats earth worms taste like? This one may surprise you, ...

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2026

This week we’re joined by serious waterfowler Chris Paradise and Brendan Shirkey, a research biologist, hunter, and punter with the Winous Point Marsh Conservancy, believed to be the oldest duck hunting club in North America. The Black Duck is a favorite among waterfowlers, yet many hunters feel they don’t see the numbers they once did. We dive into this secretive species, discussing its habitat preferences, breeding range, behavior, how to hunt it, and whether its population is truly in decl...

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2026

This week, we release a timely classic on our conversation with Dr. Mike Chamberlain to talk through some of the latest whitetail management techniques he’s seeing. Over the last fifty years, the landscape has changed and whitetails are clearly king! But what’s changed, and what can we learn? His recent trip to South Texas leads us to ask about the story of his buck and what he sees that those intensively managed ranches are doing that works. As always when Mike joins us, it’s an interesting ...

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2026

On this episode we’re joined by Dr. Emile Gardiner of the US Forest Service and who is a research forester for the Center for Bottomland Hardwood Research. We talk oak’s, acorns and get an explanation on masting events. Locally we are all seeing more acorns than we have seen in a while and Emile explains this local event that could happen to you one season. It’s a fascinating opportunity to listen to a true oak expert. By the way, this is a guy Dudley has admired for a long time. List...

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2026

On this episode we are once again joined by Nutrien’s Weather Wizard, Eric Snodgrass. We ask a lot of questions and Eric masterfully explains high/low pressure, barometric pressure, dew points, early morning and late afternoon thermals and more. We always learn something when we talk to him. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! Support the s...

Transcribed - Published: 2 January 2026

On this episode we are talking rattling and calling bucks with Alabama hunter Lance Atkinson. Lance explains his tactic of tickling or clicking antlers to bring bucks out earlier in the afternoon as well as calling with bleats and grunts. It’s always interesting to listen to how other hunter have success. Listen, Learn and Enjoy. If you enjoyed this Gamekeeper episode, send the guys a message and don’t forget to include your contact info so we can reach you if you win a prize! S...

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2025

This week the Gamekeepers have accomplished waterfowler, Jim Ronquest, sitting between the turkeys and talking ducks, green tree reservoirs, red oaks and how he spots duck bands. We also talk to Amanda Everaert, of the Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary, about the history of the Jack Miner bands, and how he got started with his flying missionaries. It’s an amazing story that not enough people have heard. You will enjoy this one! In fact, we bet you’ll end up googling Jack Miner. ...

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2025

On this episode our 400th episode, we talk about how we wish everyone would behave and we learn how each of us would handle certain situations. Our guest Brent Lochala helps give us some great public perspective from his years of experience. We ask, how do you handle a neighbor with a stand on the fence line? Someone that’s illegally feeding? How do you choose stands at your club? How do you react when someone shows up at your favorite public duck hole? It’s an interesting discussion co...

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

On this episode we’re joined by Brandon Maddox, the CEO of Silencer Central to fully explain shotgun suppressors. The crew spent a full day testing the new product and then discussing its performance. We worried if the unit would cause line of site issues for a duck/dove hunter. Would it swing as smoothly? Was it heavy? We discuss what will this mean for turkey hunters and kids learning to shoot. We also discussed trusts, the future of suppressors plus the removal of the tax...

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2025

This week we are joined by world class whitetail biologist, Dr. Mickey Hellickson. Mickey’s career has taken him to some amazing locations studying whitetails and he has been involved in some very interesting research projects. Mickey was the head whitetail biologist for the King Ranch for many years which speaks volumes to his credibility. We talk coyotes and post rut buck mortality, supplemental feed, understanding Texas vs Iowa, rattling techniques, helicopters and drones, nutrition and ju...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2025

This week we’re joined by Jeff Tarsi—a Mississippi Delta native who grew up chasing wildlife and loving the farm. Jeff now serves as the global leader of Nutrien Ag Solutions, the retail arm of Nutrien and the world’s largest agricultural products and services provider. He oversees more than 23,000 employees and has spent his career learning farming practices from every corner of the globe. Yet through it all, he’s remained the same Jeff: the outdoorsman that’s still chasing wildlife and stil...

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2025