Bowyer Podcast

In this episode of The Bowers Podcast, host Matthew Morris introduces Sarah Ward, a young and passionate traditional bow hunter from Oklahoma. Sarah shares her adventures and experiences, ranging from her first bow, a toy from her childhood, to her journey struggling and succeeding in hunting with a traditional bow. She recounts the thrill and emotional rollercoaster of hunting a massive buck she named "Serendipity" and the lessons learned from the journey. Sarah also discusses the challenges of being a solo hunter in a male-dominated field, the importance of finding a supportive community, and the balance between work and...

In this episode of The Bower Podcast, host Matthew Morris interviews Joe Kondelis, president of the American Bear Foundation. They discuss Joe's early fascination with bears, driven by their complexity and the challenge of hunting, which led to his involvement in bear conservation and hunting advocacy. Joe explains the history and mission of the American Bear Foundation, focusing on their efforts in grizzly bear delisting, black bear research, and educating the public about bear hunting. The episode touches on the common misconceptions about bear hunting, the differences between regions, the importance of science-based wildlife management, and the cultural practices...

In the latest podcast episode, Matthew engages in a conversation with Weylin Olive from SwiftWood Bows. They discuss Weylin’s bow making techniques, personal hunting experiences, and share insights on how seasonal changes affect hunting. They also talk about bow-making courses, the importance of mentoring, and the value of investing time in traditional crafts.

Find Weylin at:

Instagram:@swiftwoodbows

Youtube: @swiftwoodbows

Website: www.swiftwoodbows.com

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube: @thebowyercollective 

Website: www.thebowyercollective.com

Follow this week’s Kill Call gue...

Josh Smith is a family man, outdoorsman, and the big chief behind Montana Knife Company (MKC). MKC takes pride in a lifelong relationship with their customers to ensure their knives will be passed down for generations. They are committed to giving back to our veterans, communities & the conservation of wild game, its habitat & hunting access. Josh and Matthew dive into Josh’s origin story, and how he took the leap from building knives from his garage to building a booming business with nearly one hundred employees. 

Find Matt at:

Instagram:@montanaknifecompany

Youtube: @montanaknifecompany

Matt Zirnsak is a family man, outdoorsman, avid traditional archer, and perhaps the original gangster of traditional bowhunting podcasts. Matt is an outstanding steward of our sport and has expanded The Push Archery from a small radio show to providing comprehensive online courses, content, and merchandise which you can use on the range and in the field. 

Find Matt at:

Instagram:@thepusharchery

Youtube: @thepusharchery 

Website: www.pusharchery.com

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube: @thebowyercollective 

Website: www.thebowyercollective.com

Follow this week’s...

In Episode 70 of The Bowyer Podcast, host Matthew Morris interviews historian Gene Hopkins—recognized historian for Compton Traditional Bowhunters and the National Archery Museum. This third volume of our Icons of Traditional Bowhunting series explores Ishi, his remarkable craftsmanship, his cultural legacy, and his enduring influence on traditional archery and bowhunting history. A must-listen for traditional archers, bowyers, and history enthusiasts.

Find Gene At:

Instagram:@genehopkins3448

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thearcherycollector/

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube: @thebowyercollective 

Do you have a 2025 traditional archery sto...

On this episode, host Matthew Morris sits down once again with his friend and bowmaking mentor, Correy Hawk of the Organic Archery School of Bowmaking. This is the second time Matthew has interviewed Correy — and also the second time he’s attended one of Correy’s bowmaking courses.

This time, Matthew took the Advanced Course, crafting a stunning Seneca-inspired longbow. Correy, a traditional bow hunter, master bowyer, family man, and man of faith, shares insights from years of experience in both bowmaking and life.

Corey’s wife, Holly, prepares the delicious meals for every course, making t...

In part two of our Arizona Bear Hunt recap, Matthew and Cody break down the final few days of their adventure. Over the course of five days, they treed ten bears and had an incredible experience exploring the rugged landscapes of southern Arizona.

Do we hunt bears as part of a well-managed predator control plan? Absolutely — responsible predator management is essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy ecosystem.

Do we hunt bears for food? Yes, that too. Bear meat is delicious and versatile — from roasts and ground meat to backstraps and even bear grease — nothing goes t...

In this episode, host Matthew Morris sits down for a fireside chat at bear camp, joined by guides Paul Nagengast, Cody Anderson, and Ira Hook, along with fellow hunters Ryan and Donovan. The conversation captures the first few days of their bear camp adventure in southern Arizona — a hunt full of firsts. It’s Matthew’s first time hunting bears with hounds, and it’s also the first time the talented guides from P & D Hunts have worked with a traditional bowhunter. Gathered around the campfire with a cold beer, the group shares stories, laughs, and the sounds of puppies...

Host Matthew Morris sits down with Mark Hoeksema, the voice behind the Stickbow Country Podcast. Mark’s show dives deep into the world of traditional archery, featuring insightful conversations and an impressive line-up of guests from across the archery community.

Beyond the mic, Mark is a dedicated family man, an arrow fletcher, and avid bowhunter, pursuing all kinds of big game — from black bears to whitetail deer. Tune in for a great conversation about bowhunting, tradition, and the stories that connect us to the outdoors.

Find Mark at:

Instagram:@stickbowcountrypodcast

Jeff Hairston is a family man, strength coach, and traditional bowhunter. While he was raised in a hunting family, grown-up obligations such as career and raising a family of his own took him out of the field for some time. Jeff picked up the traditional bow only a few years ago, and really dove deep! He just returned from a hunting trip among friends and mentors in South Africa. Listen in as Jeff chronicles his traditional archery journey and his recent hunting adventure. 

Find Jeff at:

Instagram:@jeff_hairston

Todd Howard is a traditional archery instructor, acupuncturist, and martial artist. After spending 15 years serving as the president and founder of one of the world's most recognized holistic medicine colleges in Victoria, Canada, he now spends much of his time in Costa Rica surfing, skating, practicing Brazilian jiujitsu, and travelling with his children. 

He and his 15-year-old daughter, Ela, are currently touring the world to study under 15 of the best traditional bowyers and to capture their lifestyle and craft in a stunning coffee table book. Their journey, known as Project Quiver, is taking them t...

On this episode, Matthew sits down with his friend Greg Krause. The two first connected through social media over their shared passions for building self bows, chasing whitetails and bears, and raising wholesome families. After years of being pen pals, they finally had the chance to shoot together at this year’s ETAR, where they enjoyed good fellowship and plenty of laughs. In this conversation, Greg shares his origin story, the values that shape his journey, and a reminder for all of us to never forget the joy of having fun.

Find Greg at:

Instagram:@wi...

This week Matthew sits down with Lee Hinton, president of the Barefoot Traditional Archers in Burlington, North Carolina. Lee is a prolific whitetail hunter, former IBO World Champion, and a dedicated steward of traditional archery. Gathered around the campfire after a 3D archery shoot, the two dive into fellowship, hunting, and Lee’s personal journey through the world of traditional archery.

Find Lee at:

Instagram:@lee._hinton

Barefoot Traditional Archers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1559103907745754/

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube...

In this episode, we sit down once again with bowhunting historian Gene Hopkins for the second installment of Icons of Traditional Bowhunting. Gene and Matthew explore the importance of preserving bowhunting heritage by documenting the stories of legendary figures like Saxton Pope, Ishi, Art Young, and Will Compton.

Many of our traditional bowhunting forefathers left little written record of their adventures or their advocacy for the sport. Gene’s tireless research helps ensure that their contributions aren’t forgotten, giving today’s community a clearer sense of where we came from and the challenges that remain in safegu...

Korey Meadows is a husband, father, man of faith, and entrepreneur. Korey is the man behind NC-based EL&B Outdoors, maker of the wedgehead broadhead, a precision machined, high carbon steel, two blade broadhead. Korey and Matthew discuss their journeys into traditional archery, a recent shoot with Barefoot Traditional Archery, and plans for the 2025 whitetail season. Korey is a great dude, and we love to support small businesses. Check out the EL&B Outdoors. 

Do you have a 2025 traditional archery story to tell? Write us at thebowyercollective@gmail.com

Find Korey at:

Instagram: @e...

On this episode Matthew sits down with long-time traditional bowhunter Jim Eeckhout. Jim is a Michigan native and grew up in Fred Bear country. Jim has successfully hunted all sorts of North American big game to include whitetail deer, black bear, mountain goat, caribou, and a whole bunch of other big game critters. Jim has also served as President of Michigan Traditional Bowhunters, and still plays an active role in The Lost Bow Campaign. 

Find Jim at:

Instagram: @jim_eeckhout  

Michigan Traditional Bowhunters: www.mitradbow.com

Find Matthew at:

Ins...

Matthew Morris and  Neil Byce III discussed Bear Archery's legacy of making archery accessible and affordable, highlighting its manufacturing history and Neil’s family's deep involvement, including his father's contributions to research and development and his own early career and mentorship by Fred Bear. Neil details Bear Archery's product development, successful reintroductions like the '59 Kodiak, and the enduring popularity of the Montana Longbow, while also sharing anecdotes about Fred Bear's character and vision. Bear Archery is proud to continue what Fred Bear started over 90 years ago. The spirit, vision, and craftsmanship that Fred put into each bow remain a c...

I've been following our guest, Cody D’Aquisto, and his father on YouTube and Instagram for several years, and I’m continually impressed by their relentless innovation in the hunting space. What stands out even more is Cody’s ability to juggle it all—running a successful business, hosting whitetail clinics, and raising a family. For that, I have a deep respect and admiration for the man. Cody is a highly accomplished bowhunter, a driven innovator, and the founder of Dying Breed Bowhunter. Through his traveling Whitetail Roadshow, Cody is helping hunters—new and experienced—elevate their mobile hunting game. His mi...

Today’s guest is Jim Neaves — a master bowyer with more than three decades of experience under his belt, despite being just shy of 50. Jim began his journey crafting selfbows, but eventually found his true calling in building beautifully designed, lightning-fast laminated recurves and longbows. From his shop in Montana, he runs Centaur Archery — a small, self-owned company built on his lifelong passion for archery and a commitment to one-on-one consultation with every customer. His mission is simple: to create the best traditional bow possible, at the best price, for each unique bowhunter.

Find Centaur Archery at:

...

In this episode Matthew is joined by  Bill Vanderheyden — accomplished bowhunter, engineer, innovator, and the driving force behind Iron Will Outfitters. If you've spent any time in the mountains with a stick and string, you've likely heard the name Iron Will — synonymous with rugged, high-performance hunting gear. From their precision broadheads to purpose-built knives, Iron Will is known for gear that flat-out performs. 

In this episode, Bill walks us through the Iron Will origin story,  broadhead design, materials, and what really makes Iron Will broadheads so darn lethal. Whether you're chasing elk on the high ridges or dialing...

This is a special episode of the Bowyer Podcast — one that goes beyond bows, broadheads, and backstraps. Charles Whitwam and I hope to shed light on a variety of pressing conservation issues… and dare I say it — the growing oppression of hunter rights.

Charles Whitwam, Founder and President of Howl for Wildlife — an organization that’s fighting to protect science-based wildlife management across North America. Our wildlife and fisheries are constantly under threat — not from hunters, but from policies driven by emotion, anthropomorphism, misinformation, and a rejection of science. If we don’t stand up, the very future of cons...

Mark Sasser is a California-based traditional bowhunter, co-owner of Bwana Bows, and an all-around good dude. In this episode, Matthew and Mark dive into the often-overlooked world of bowhunting in California, exploring the state’s diverse terrain and abundant game. They also recap Mark’s recent black bear hunt in Manitoba, sharing stories from the field and insights into gear, preparation, and the thrill of the chase.

Find Mark at:

Instagram: @california_tradbow_hunter 

Bwana Bows: www.bwanabows.com

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube: @thebowyercollective 

Keep thi...

Madison Hoerner is a native Montanan whose lifestyle is deeply rooted in the outdoors. Raised around horses and hunting, Madison developed a passion for traditional bowhunting at an early age, thanks to strong family traditions. Madison is a STRONG gal! She’s actively hunting with a 60lb longbow, and putting large game in the freezer. Listen as Matthew and Madison discuss the blessings of being raised in a hunting family, loving trad bowhunting without necessarily being a “purist,” and hunting big game in the West. 

Find Maddi at:

Instagram: @madddyyyyyrose

Check out Schavers Silver...

On this episode of the Bowyer Podcast, Matthew sits down with Brian Cook—founder and co-owner of Vuni Gear, a cutting-edge hunting apparel company and proud sponsor of the podcast since day one. Brian brings nearly four decades of bowhunting experience to the table, having owned and run several successful archery pro shops in Utah before launching Vuni. Known for its mission to go Beyond the Green, Vuni leads the charge in advanced camouflage technology and high-performance gear that elevates the hunter’s experience. I’m grateful to Brian and the entire Vuni team for their continued support and innova...

On this episode of the Bowyer Podcast, Matthew sits down with traditional bowhunting legend Randy Cooling. From the frozen North in pursuit of polar bears to remote corners of the globe chasing wild game, Randy shares stories from a lifetime spent bowhunting at the edges of the map. They dive into his acquisition of Safari Tuff, the trusted gear company built for hardcore traditional archers, and how he's continued to innovate while staying true to the roots of the craft. Be sure to look out for Randy at the Safari Tuff booth at the 2026 ETAR event! 

I a...

On this episode of the Bowyer Podcast, Matthew sits down with returning guest and pal Cubby Hoover — a skilled carpenter and traditional bowyer who lives in southern Missouri. The two catch up on the past year, dive into Cubby’s fellowship with the Cane Creek Archery Club, and swap stories, including one about nearly losing a foot while cutting saplings in flip-flops. They also get candid about the healing power of the outdoors and how nature can help pull you out of a dark mental space. Plus, Cubby shares what’s next on his horizon as a craftsman and bowyer...

In this special solo episode, Matthew Morris reflects on one year of hosting The Bowyer Podcast—sharing the unlikely origin of the show, favorite moments with inspiring makers and bowhunters, and an exciting vision for what's next. From heartfelt stories and deep conversations to plans for including more indigenous voices, academic experts, and conservation leaders, this episode offers a raw, behind-the-scenes look at how a simple idea became a thriving community. Whether you're new to traditional archery or a seasoned woodsman, Matthew’s candid reflections and big plans for year two make this a must-listen.

Find Matthew at:<...

Join Bowyer Podcast host Matthew Morris as he sits down with Chris Guadiz and his boys, Gavin and Gabe, to discuss their recent trip to Molokai. The group of traditional bowhunters spent several days on this rural, but beautiful island chasing the ever vigilant axis deer with a simple stick and string. Listen in to see how they did, and gain some insight if a trip like this tickles your fancy. 

Find Matthew at:

Instagram: @songdog_stickbows        

Youtube: @thebowyercollective 

Where to find Chris Guadiz

Instagram: @curlykoa77 

Compton Traditional...

Bailey Cloud has been passionate about archery and bowhunting since her early teens, spending much of her youth immersed in the sport and working at a local archery shop. She has traveled across the United States competing in compound bow tournaments, and in 2018, she shifted her focus to traditional archery.

After college, Bailey and her husband moved to Iowa, where they worked with Nock On Archery and later with Iron Will Broadheads. Today, both are proud to be part of the renowned traditional archery company Black Widow Bows, based in Nixa, Missouri. Bailey also serves as the...

On this episode Matthew sits down with his two sons, Waylon and Finnley to discuss their spring hunting adventures. This is a  bit of an ad-hoc episode, and a little of script … but aren’t all of em? I hope you guys enjoy this little peek into the Morris crew and perhaps inspires you to take your kiddos on an adventure or two. 

Keep this podcast on the radio waves. Support our show partners:

Polite But Dangerous Tools- Use discount code “bowyer” to save 10% off orders.

https://politebutdangeroustools.square.site/

Vuni Gear- Use...

Trad Hunters is a vintage-style bowhunting magazine built in the spirit of classic 1950s outdoor publications — No filler. No noise. Just real bowhunting the way it used to be.

Inspired by the legendary outdoor magazines that shaped generations of hunters. Every page, every illustration, every detail in 1950's style.

This pre-sale offering is rapidly becoming the most anticipated publication in traditional bowhunting circles! Only 750 Limited Edition Numbered Copies Printed. 

Join The Community and Pre-Order Now!

Trad Hunters Magazine: https://standingwolfarchery.com/products/trad-hunters-magazine

Standing Wolf Archery: htt...

Al Chapman is widely regarded as one of this generation’s great traditional bowhunters, but he is too humble to admit it. A true outdoorsman, man of faith, and southern gentleman, Al has spent a lifetime pursuing wild game, primarily across the southeastern United States, but also on exciting adventures in far-off places like Namibia. He is an active member of the Professional Bowhunters Society, Compton Traditional Bowhunters, and Georgia Traditional Bowhunters. Recently, Al achieved the impressive feat of completing Georgia’s Big 5 with primitive archery equipment. Even as he reaches his golden years, Mr. Chapman shows no signs of s...

Bryan Burkhardt is a lifelong traditional bowhunter and the current President of Compton Traditional Bowhunters. Born and raised in Michigan, Bryan grew up immersed in the hunting tradition, visiting Bear Archery headquarters as a child with his father. He had the rare opportunity to hear stories firsthand from legends like Fred Bear and, later, Glenn St. Charles. A passionate outdoorsman, Bryan has dedicated much of his life to mentoring young bowhunters and advocating for the future of traditional archery. In this episode, Bryan and Matthew explore the mission of Compton Traditional Bowhunters, discuss the upcoming Compton Rendezvous, and dive...

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Roberts of Sauk Trail Archery. A few years back, Mike made the leap to full-time bowmaking, continuing the family tradition and stepping into the footsteps of his father, who started the bow business years ago.

Mike shares his journey—from his personal origin story and family life, to the decision to take the reins of Sauk Trail. We also dive into the lineup of bows they offer, discussing their design, performance, and best use cases for traditional archers.

If you love stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and beautiful ha...

In this episode, Matthew chats with Spencer Sutliff from Domain Outdoor LLC. The conversation kicks off with Matthew’s exciting new land acquisition and his vision to create a traditional bowhunting-only hunt club. Step one in the journey? Improving flora quality to support better wildlife nutrition and give hunters a greater chance of closing the distance to their quarry.

Spencer shares practical advice on establishing food plots that benefit both game animals and landowners. Whether you're a seasoned land manager or just getting started, planting a food plot with help from Domain Outdoor can greatly enhance habitat fo...

In this episode, Matthew sits down with Mr. William “Willie” Pekah (Peek-ah)—a Comanche elder, lifelong educator, traditional bowyer and fletcher, and all-around fascinating human. Willie has spent over 40 years working to sustain the cultural practices of the Comanche people, while also collaborating with other Native tribes to rejuvenate traditional lifeways.

His work has even taken him to Hollywood, consulting on books and films—including the hit TV series The Son, based on the novel by Philipp Meyer. Conversations like this are the reason we started this podcast: to honor the makers, preserve the traditions, and pass on the s...

Pat Newcomb is an accomplished hunter, family man, entrepreneur, and the chief bossman behind Nukem Hunting. Pat and Matthew discuss hunting from the ground, their upcoming turkey hunting plans, and the Nukem Hunting origin story. Nukem Grab & Go Hunting Blinds come with a lightweight and adjustable design, are easy to carry and set up in seconds for mobile hunting. They come in a variety of camo patterns, to include 3D  leafy options,  Mossy Oak GreenLeaf Leafy 3D to provide optimal concealment. 

We’re pleased to announce Nukem Hunting as our newest show partner. Thanks Pat f...

Meet Nancylia or as her friends call her Nan, a remarkable blend of tradition and nature. As a skilled traditional archer, Nan not only masters the art of the bow, but she also brings her precision and dedication to her homesteading lifestyle, where she thrives in sustainable living. Nan also works on a vibrant flower farm, where she cultivates an array of blossoms, bringing color and beauty to every season. Her talents and passions are deeply rooted in her connection to the earth, making her a true steward of the land and an inspiring figure in the archery community.<...

Ray Fletcher is the man behind Riverbend Longbows. Ray grew up in New Mexico, but spent much of his adult life in Iowa with his wife, raising their children, and working as a tradesman for a couple of decades. In 2024, Ray and his wife made the bold decision to move to a former homestead in southern New Mexico. We all dream about, and perhaps romanticise a pivot to the simpler lifestyle….but lack the gumption to actually make the move. Well Ray is one of the few folks that took the leap and has since found peace and a ne...