The Hunt Stealth Podcast
The Hunt Stealth Podcast dives headfirst into the wild, whether you're an aspiring hunter or an adventurer seeking the untamed. Together, we'll explore the strategies and stories that lead to success in the great outdoors.Hosted By: Ryan Uffens
#068 Marlon Holden | Gray Light Hunter Into The High Country
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, host Ryan Uffens sits down with legendary mule deer hunter Marlon Holden, known online as The Gray Light Hunter. Marlon shares the mindset and discipline behind chasing mule deer deep in the high country where oxygen is scarce, storms roll fast, and only the most determined men endure. Together, Ryan and Marlon dive into what it means to do hard things, build a life of freedom, and live with intention.
They talk about sacrifice, faith, and the spiritual connection between man, the mountain, and the...
#067 - Ashton Oborn | Fog, Bugles and Redemption
Ryan sits down with Utah elk hunter Ashton Oborn to swap storm-soaked mountain stories, hard-won lessons, and one unforgettable redemption bull. The two met at Hunt Expo, later linked up with mutual acquaintance Dustin Green and finally got boots on the same ridge where weather, fog, and blown-out switchbacks tested every plan. Ashton traces his family’s 20+ years in the area, from his youth-tag growing pains to the day he dropped his biggest bull with a .270 pump-action, open sights. Together, he and Ryan break down reading fresh sign, calling nuances, swirling winds in burned timber, and the painful truth th...
#066 - Jeff Barlow | Eight Feet From a Bull: Close Calls and Big Lessons
Jeff Barlow... better known online as Nimrod Outdoors joins Ryan to talk family, faith, and the kind of hunts that turn into lifelong stories. Jeff shares how a joking nudge from his wife and a verse about the “mighty hunter” Nimrod sparked a 15-year digital journal with his seven kids, documenting everything from first tags to pack-outs. He tells the incredible Depression-era tale of his grandfather’s 34-inch cactus buck that fed the family and, decades later, found its way back home. We go deep on elk and mule deer strategy, why bugles in bow range raise the ne...
#065 - Anthony Williams | From North Carolina Roots to Alaska Moose
Ryan sits down with entrepreneur and charter captain Anthony Williams for a wide-ranging conversation that runs from marlin on blue water to bulls on steep ridges. Anthony shares how growing up in rural North Carolina shaped his outdoor grit, why marlin fishing feels like hunting, and how a brutal first day in elk country rewired his training. He breaks down a simple but savage prep plan (hill repeats on a bike + max-incline treadmill “climb the mountain”), talks bow vs. rifle strategy when learning a new place, and opens up about access, public lands, and representation in hunt...
#064 - Cody Griffin | Stay Around The Campfire
In this conversation, Ryan Uffens and Cody Griffin discuss various aspects of the archery industry, including personal connections, the role of customer service, product innovations at Easton, and the importance of coaching for beginners. They also share insights on hunting experiences in North Carolina, the impact COVID-19 had on the archery market, and the community culture within archery shops.
Takeaways
#063 - Jeremiah Plyer | Wilde Arrow Desert Sheep
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Jeremiah Plyer, co-owner of Wilde Arrow Archery in Centerville, Utah. The conversation ranges from the importance of location in retail success to the frustrations of local politics, rising taxes, and the lack of government transparency.
Jeremiah shares his journey into archery from struggling as a teenager with no mentor, to building a career in one of the top pro shops in the country. He emphasizes the difference between a basic archery shop and a true pro shop, and why personalized service and attention to...
#062 - Baker Leavitt | From Building Billion Dollar Brands to Chasing Eland in Africa
Our guest on this episode is a powerhouse in the outdoor and business space, he's also a master of cutting through the noise.
Joining me is Baker Levitt Director of Strategic Relations at Black Rifle Coffee Company. He’s helped shape one of America’s most influential lifestyle brands, connecting hunters, veterans, and freedom-loving folks through powerful storytelling, sharp strategy, and unapologetic culture. From real estate and media to political consulting and crisis PR, Baker’s got his boots in every arena and he’s not afraid to speak his mind.
In this episode, we go deep...
Inside the Grand Teton Kill Zone: Eradicating Goats in No Man's Land | Braxton Hamilton and Storie Ratcliff
Ryan Uffens sits down with Braxton Hamilton and Storie Ratcliff to unpack one of the most surreal and extreme hunts imaginable... a sanctioned mountain goat eradication in Grand Teton National Park. What started as a controversial government program turned into the chance of a lifetime: hunting within the park boundaries, in winter conditions, with minimal backup, in terrain that tested every ounce of grit they had.
From hiking 9 miles through two feet of snow just to get to camp, to climbing sheer cliffs in negative 26-degree temps, this story is a full-throttle blend of backcountry...
#061 - Nathan Cox | Blue Ridge Mountains Born and Raised
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan sits down with 7th-generation mountain man, lifelong hunter, and North Carolina game warden Nathan Cox. From chasing rabbits with his grandpa’s beagles in the Blue Ridge Mountains to busting poachers by night using aircraft and decoys, Nathan brings a wealth of hard-earned wisdom and gritty backwoods experience.
Nathan shares what it means to grow up immersed in hunting culture, how his law enforcement background led him to become a game warden, and why intent matters when it comes to enforcement. He delivers gold for new hunters especially ar...
#060 - Matt Tillotson | Redemption Season
Ryan sits down with Wyoming-based hunter and HuntQuarters co-founder Matt Tillotson for a raw, wide-ranging conversation on high-country discipline, mental toughness, and the real grind behind consistent success in the field.
Matt shares the backstory behind launching HuntQuarters, a consulting platform for Western hunters that offers local, boots-on-the-ground insights across states like Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah. From working through target panic to harvesting two exceptional bucks in a single season, Matt opens up about the relentless preparation required physically, mentally, and emotionally to perform when it matters.
Together, Ryan and Matt dive deep into the...
#059 - Phil Lundell | Blood Trails and Bino's
In this episode, Ryan Uffens is joined by Utah environmental scientist and lifelong hunter Phil Lundell, who shares his gritty journey from childhood hunts at Fish Lake to dialing in his archery game in adulthood. They dive deep into one of Phil’s most intense hunts a velvet buck taken just in time before his pattern changed complete with highs, lows, a near-loss, and a powerful recovery story.
Phil discusses his evolution as a hunter, how balancing family life and hunting is possible (thanks to a supportive wife and smart time management), and why being honest with yo...
#058 - Michael T. Merrill | 12 Day Buck Chase - Learn to Hunt Angry
On this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Mike Merrill, aka "Big T" an entrepreneur, family man, and seasoned bowhunter with a gritty mindset and a deep love for the outdoors. The conversation weaves through Mike’s personal hunting evolution, from growing up without a mentor to becoming a relentless and calculated hunter. He shares how he built multiple successful businesses, including a mobile time-clock software company, and transitioned to a life more focused on purpose-driven hunting and physical readiness.
Mike details a 12-day archery mule deer hunt in Utah that tested ev...
#057 - Brian Barney | Winners are Made in the Offseason
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with bowhunting icon Brian Barney host of Eastmans’ Elevated, writer for Eastmans’ Hunting Journal, and a true backcountry hunting machine. Brian shares his incredible journey from a Pacific Northwest wrestler to one of the most respected DIY public land hunters in the West.
The two dive deep into what it really takes to succeed in the mountains: offseason preparation, high opportunity hunts, mental toughness, and building a life that supports your passion. Brian walks through the mindset shifts that make the difference between tagg...
#056 - Troy Gregory | Blueprint For Raising Hunters - Four Brothers Hunt... and One Sister
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, host Ryan Uffens sits down with Troy Gregory CEO of Hunt Electric, devoted father, and passionate outdoorsman. Troy shares his story of growing up in Utah with humble beginnings, the work ethic instilled by his grandfather, and how he built a legacy rooted in family, hunting, and grit.
Troy opens up about raising five kids four sons and a daughter, all of whom are deeply immersed in hunting, fitness, and outdoor adventure. Through personal stories like his daughter’s first deer hunt and his son’s unforgettable bighorn sheep harv...
#055 Josh Kirchner | The Rise of the Dialed In Hunter - Backpacks, Bears and Big Lessons
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Josh Kirchner The Dialed In Hunter to unpack his journey from roofing to full-time hunting. What began as a personal blog turned into a full-blown career in writing, filmmaking, and inspiring new hunters.
Josh shares insights from solo bear hunts, writing his books (Becoming a Bowhunter, Becoming a Backpack Hunter), and learning to embrace the mental grind of the backcountry. They talk gear, mindset, failure, and why reps in the field matter more than the latest bow tech.
Follow Josh Kirchner:<...
#054 - Austin Bell | 7 Year Elk Hunting Journey
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, host Ryan Uffens sits down with Colorado bowhunter and founder of Leaf Hat Co., Austin Bell, to dive deep into a story of grit, growth, and gear. Austin recounts his emotional 7-year pursuit to harvest a bull elk with a bow, culminating in a wild, five-arrow encounter deep in the Colorado backcountry. From the agony of a missed shot in 2021 to the obsessive scouting and preparation that finally paid off in 2022, this episode is packed with raw insights every elk hunter will appreciate.
Austin shares the mistakes that slowed...
#053 - Hyrum Neilson | Moose Packs, Meat Sticks and the Alaskan Way
If you’ve ever dreamed of hunting or fishing in Alaska but haven’t made the time this episode is your sign. Ryan Uffens sits down with Hyrum Neilson, the General Manager of King Salmon Lodge, to talk about what it's really like to live the Alaskan wilderness lifestyle full-time. From blacktail deer stalks and brown bear bow hunts to raising a self-reliant family off wild game, Hyrum’s life is what most outdoorsmen talk about over campfires. He breaks down what makes Alaska special, the intensity of surviving in its untamed terrain, and why it's not just a trip i...
#052 - Caleb Brewer | Stepping on an IED Wasn’t the End - How Archery Gave This Green Beret a New Mission
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens talks with retired U.S. Army Green Beret and adaptive bowhunter Caleb Brewer. A man who stepped on an IED in Afghanistan, lost both legs, and still charges solo into the backcountry in pursuit of bull elk and black bears. Caleb’s story is nothing short of legendary. From learning to shoot a bow in his garage with a 1990s PSE Nova to opening his own archery shop, Stick Sniper Archery, Caleb discusses the healing power of archery, the grit it takes to succeed in the wild, and how hu...
"I Never Wanted to Hunt Mountain Lions... Now I Want to Do It Again." - Donnie Vincent
What begins as reluctance becomes revelation as Donnie recounts an epic mountain lion hunt in the snow-laden wilds of British Columbia. With vivid detail and powerful emotion, Donnie takes us step-by-step through the pursuit of a legendary cougar "Blood Paw Tom" a cat so notorious its removal was requested by local biologists to protect the fragile population of California bighorn sheep.
This isn't just a hunting story... it's a journey into the soul of the wilderness, featuring thigh-deep snow, ancient forests, dog-driven chases, and a deep reckoning with the ethics of the hunt. It’s ab...
Close Calls and Predator Encounters - Donnie Vincent's Rules for Thriving in the Wild.
Facing the Wild: Donnie Vincent on Risk, Gear, and Going Deep Into the Backcountry
On this gripping episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with legendary filmmaker, biologist, and backcountry hunter Donnie Vincent to unravel the raw reality of what it takes to survive—and thrive—on some of the most remote hunts on the planet.
Donnie recounts harrowing moments from the cliffs of the Chugach Mountains to brutal seas off the Aleutian chain. From lightning strikes at 5,000 feet to navigating canoe-splitting storms in Northern Ontario, this isn’t your...
#051 - Jarret Johnson | Hunting, Healing and his Second Act
In episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with former NFL powerhouse Jarret Johnson—a bruiser on the field and a backcountry warrior off it. From college at Alabama to battling in the trenches with the Ravens and Chargers, Jarret opens up about the highs of pro football and the unexpected challenges of life after the league. But it’s in the wild where he finds peace. Jarret dives into his passion for hunting, the primal clarity it brings, and how it became a lifeline in his transition out of the NFL. Hear about his unforgettable cari...
How Mental Toughness and Planning Save's Hunts – Cody Rich’s Arizona Elk Hunt Story
Seasoned hunter and entrepreneur Cody Rich shares a raw and revealing look at what separates successful hunters from those who crack under pressure. He shares the brutal details of his 16-day grind chasing a giant bull in Arizona’s late season rifle hunt plagued by breakdowns, busted gear, and mental warfare.
This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, grit, and why every hunter needs more than just a tag and a backpack. Cody dives into the importance of planning multiple backup strategies (plan A through plan E), managing expectations, and how mental preparedness can keep you in the...
Unlocking Elk Hunting Success - Cody Rich’s 4-Step Blueprint
Elk Hunting Systems: Cody Rich’s Proven 4-Step Blueprint for Big Game Success
In this clip from Cody Rich breaks down a tactical approach to elk hunting that separates the consistent killers from the weekend warriors. Cody reveals the 4-step elk hunting system he’s honed over years in the field—covering everything from picking the right unit, to e-scouting like a pro, to locating elk efficiently, closing the distance, and finally executing without relying on luck. This is the ultimate roadmap for hunters ready to ditch frustration and start stacking up success. Whether you’re a fir...
#050 - Cody Rich | Building Your Elk Hunting System
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens is joined by seasoned hunter, entrepreneur, and podcast host Cody Rich (The Rich Outdoors, Elk Hunt Podcast). They dive deep into what it really takes to build a system for elk hunting moving beyond luck and toward repeatable success. Cody shares his journey from starting a podcast to ask better questions, to building frameworks and life systems that improve both business and hunting outcomes.
This conversation is packed with insight for both new and experienced hunters. Cody breaks down his four-part elk hunting system: choosing the right...
#049 - Eric Wilson | Do Not Go Quietly - Bowhunting, Business and the Battle Within
In this powerhouse episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens is joined by entrepreneur, bowhunter, and podcast host Eric Wilson for a raw, no-fluff conversation about grit, growth, and going all in. Eric unpacks his evolution from rookie hunter to seasoned elk chaser, revealing the brutal lessons and breakthrough moments that only come from failure, perseverance, and a bow in hand. They dive into the mindset needed to thrive in the wild—and in business—emphasizing preparation, humility, and the courage to ask for help. Eric also shares the mission behind his own show, Do Not Go Quietly, and...
#048 - Evan Frampton
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with avid elk hunter Evan Frampton to talk about the deep connection between hunting, family, and self-growth. Evan shares powerful stories about growing up waterfowl hunting with his father, a once-in-a-lifetime limited-entry elk hunt they tackled together, and helping his 79-year-old grandfather tag a bull in the backcountry. From humorous solo misadventures to hard-earned lessons in elk country, Evan reflects on the evolving journey of becoming a better hunter. They talk gear upgrades, navigating failure, and why success isn’t measured only by tags punched, but by th...
#047 - Chad Alan Jones
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Texas bowhunter Chad Alan Jones for a raw, high-energy dive into the heart of the hunt. From childhood memories to passing the torch to his daughters, Chad shares stories laced with grit, adrenaline, and legacy. They dig into the ethics of spot sharing, the power of martial arts for personal safety, and the wild shift from rifle to bow. With tales of hard-earned bucks, gear breakdowns, and bucket-list dreams, this one’s a battle cry for hunters who live for the chase and raise the next ge...
#046 - Will Munson
From Maryland Woods to Munson’s Outdoors: A Hunter’s Journey
Strap in for a wild ride on this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast as Ryan Uffens sits down with Maryland’s own Will Munson — a hunter with a big heart, bigger stories, and a passion for the wild that’s downright contagious.
Will opens up about his early days in the woods, the tragic accident that changed his family’s life forever, and why safety is the real trophy every hunter should chase. From the drama of private land vs. state land to his...
#045 - Brian Stephens
You don’t just hunt wildlife… you win with it.
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Brian Stephens—hardcore hunter, author of Winning with the Wild Life, and a man who's packed more wisdom into his pack than most pack in gear.
They dive into how Brian got hooked on hunting, why good mentors matter more than fancy gear, and how the bonds built in the backcountry last a lifetime. From intense hunts to hilarious hiccups, Brian shares storie...
#044 - Daniel Bishop
In this raw and real episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Daniel Bishop—a blue-collar hunter with a heart forged in the backcountry of New Mexico. From chasing elk through the high desert to wrestling life’s curveballs, Daniel opens up about how hunting, hard work, and deep faith shaped his journey.
He shares gritty stories of growing up rural, navigating high school drama, and surviving the messy middle of adulthood—all while staying true to the values that raised him. This episode hits on fatherhood, faith, and finding peace in the wild...
#043 - Dr. Paul Barattiero
What if the water you're drinking could do more than just hydrate you? In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with the pioneer of hydrogen-infused hydration himself—Dr. Paul Barattiero, founder of Echo Water. From battling oxidative stress to boosting gut health, Dr. Barattiero isn’t just dropping facts—he’s changing the way we think about water.
You’ll hear wild stories of people reclaiming their health, geek out on the science that powers hydrogen therapy, and find out why Echo Water isn’t your average sip from the tap...
#042 - Brad Hunt
In this episode, Ryan Uffens sits down with backcountry hunter and filmmaker Brad Hunt for a dive into the heart of the hunt. From Idaho’s rugged wilderness to behind-the-lens grit, Brad pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to chase elk, survive the backcountry, and capture raw, authentic moments on film.
They break down the gear that matters, the mindset that separates weekend warriors from seasoned hunters, and the blood, sweat, and obsession behind every epic shot—both bow and camera. You’ll hear about Brad's experience filming Brian’s elk hunt The Struggle, why film...
#41 - Jared Thomas
Jared Thomas is a firefighter and passionate hunter. Jared shares his background, memorable hunting experiences, and the importance of mental and physical preparation for hunting. Jared shares insights on spring bear hunting, the challenges of archery, and encounters with wildlife. He emphasizes the significance of fitness in hunting success and offers valuable advice for new hunters. The conversation also touches on the spiritual aspects of hunting and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
Follow Jared Thomas:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peakedoutadventures
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#40 - Dallin Albrecht
Ryan interviews Dallin Albrecht from MTN OPS, exploring Dallin's journey into the outdoor industry, his experiences with hunting, and the impact of community initiatives like Conquer Hunger.Â
Dallin shares valuable life lessons learned through hunting, the importance of respecting nature, and how outdoor experiences can foster deep connections. The conversation also touches on fitness, nutrition, and the challenges faced in the backcountry, emphasizing the significance of perseverance and personal growth.
Follow Dallin Albrecht:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dallinalbrecht
Website: https://mtnops.com
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#039 - Weston Homa
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Weston Homa a Pennsylvania hunter turned ultra endurance athlete. What began as training for the mountains became a journey into the mindset of grit and adaptability.
Weston recounts a raw elk hunt out West that pushed him to his limits and redefined his approach to challenge. From gear talk to mental toughness, he unpacks what it really takes to thrive in the backcountry.
A story of mountains, miles, and the hunter’s heart.
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In...
#038 - Kate Small
In this episode Ryan Uffens is joined by Kate Small — a hunter forged by discipline, driven by purpose, and unafraid to face the hard truths of the wild. From the playing field to the unforgiving backcountry, Kate’s evolution is a story of instinct, courage, and responsibility.
She pulls no punches as she dives into the ethics of predator control, the weight every hunter carries, and the unseen war between apex predators and fragile ecosystems.Â
Discover the mission behind the Western Wolf Academy, a no-nonsense retreat training hunters in the ancient and often contr...
#037 - Lathan Buckley
Ryan Uffens sits down with Lathan Buckley — a Kansas native turned Montana mountain man, always up for an adventure. From the tranquil currents of a fly-fishing stream to the raw, untamed wilds of Yellowstone, Lathan shares what it means to chase authenticity. This one’s packed with stories of grit, close calls, and the kind of clarity you only find under an open sky. Whether you're deep in the woods or dreaming of your next adventure, Lathan’s perspective will leave you itching to lace up your boots, grab your rod or rifle, and get after it.
Foll...
#036 - Braxton Hamilton and Storie Ratcliff
In this episode host Ryan Uffens is joined by Wyoming natives and die-hard hunters Braxton Hamilton and Story Ratcliffe. The trio dives into what it really takes to chase big game—grit, lessons learned from failure, and a relentless love for the hunt. From unforgettable elk encounters to the hard-earned wisdom only time in the backcountry can teach, this episode is packed with raw stories, practical insights, and a deep respect for the wild. They break down the gear they trust, the challenges they face, and why, in the end, it’s all about the journey—not just the tag.<...
#035 - Joe Eppele
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Joe Eppele, a former CFL player turned dedicated outdoorsman and host of The Edge on Wild TV. Joe shares his journey from professional football to a life immersed in hunting and adventure. They explore the parallels between athletics and hunting, the mental and physical challenges of the wilderness, and the role of failure in building resilience. Joe also highlights the importance of unity within the hunting community and how personal experiences shape one’s perspective on life, hunting, and the fight to protect our way of li...
#034 - Donnie Drake
In this episode of The Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Donnie Drake of Elk 101, for an in-depth conversation on elk hunting. They explore the origins of Elk 101, the critical role of wind and thermals, and the importance of thorough preparation and research. Donnie shares personal hunting stories, lessons learned from challenges, and how he’s overcome injuries in the field. This episode is packed with insights on adapting, learning from mistakes, and leveraging resources to help new hunters succeed.
Follow Donnie Drake:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatsleephuntelk
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