The Hunter Conservationist Podcast brings you nuanced content about conservation, science and responsible hunting in Canada, so you can stay topped up on issues concerning your outdoor, hunting and fishing lifestyle, stay current on the latest in wildlife conservation, science and responsible hunting and be entertained by conversations with intellectual thinkers. The Hunter Conservationist Podcast is a Made in Canada podcast.
Inside the Fight to Save the Great Lakes || HC Podcast || Ep. 172
In this episode, Greg McClinchey, Director of legislative affairs and policies for the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, joins Mark and Curtis to explore the history, challenges, and triumphs of managing the Great Lakes ecosystem. Discover how international cooperation, scientific innovation, and proactive management have helped restore species like lake trout and control invasive species such as sea lamprey and invasive carp. Learn why prevention is better than cure and what individuals can do to support conservation efforts. Brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Science & Philosophy of Alberta’s Grizzly Bear Response Guide || Project Grizzly Balance || Ep. 10
In this episode, Matt Besko, Executive Director of Alberta's hunting branch, explains the intricacies of the province’s grizzly bear response guide. He explains that the guide is a nuanced decision-making matrix that balances wildlife conservation with human safety. Mark and Matt explore how Alberta manages human-bear interactions, the importance of context in wildlife decisions, and the deep philosophical considerations around coexistence and ethical wildlife management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Earth Might Be Flat But Fur Prices Aren’t || Truth About Fur || Ep. 18
In this episode, Mark and Doug discuss political engagement in the outdoor community, the expanding role of the Canadian Wildlife Conservation Partners, encouraging signs from recent fur auctions, and the potential impact of Etsy’s proposed fur ban on small makers and Indigenous artisans. They also share a broader message about why hunters, trappers, anglers, and wildlife advocates need to stay active in public policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Catch, Record, Release: The White Sturgeon Story || HC Podcast || Ep. 171
In this episode, Kevin Estrada, guide and owner of Sturgeon Slayers shares how fishing and white sturgeon conservation are deeply connected in British Columbia. Kevin reveal the the science, the stories, and the real-world work behind protecting one of North America’s most iconic fish. This episode covers: • Why white sturgeon is such an important species • How catch-and-release fishing supports conservation • What tagging and monitoring reveal about the fish • Why juvenile sturgeon research matters • The role anglers play in funding conservation • The bigger conversation around habitat, harvest, and sustainability This episode shows that conservation is not just about protecting fish it’s about protecting the future of the river, the people who depend on it, and the stories that keep both alive. Brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Elite Bears || The Horrible People Podcast | Ep. 25
It’s official … Matthew and Amanda Lynn are horrible people. Join us for this Campfire Special as we dive into all things hunting, bears, and ethics in an episode you won’t want to miss. Matt shares what inspired him to get into hunting and build Elite Bear Outfitters, while Amanda Lynn opens up about her experiences in the hunting world and life as That Hunting Girl. Learn More About Elite Bear Outfitters: https://nffa.ca/elite-bear-outfitters Follow Elite Bear Outfitters Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DVmYHHEqa/?mibextid=wwXIfr Find Amanda: https://justhunt.ca Follow Amanda on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gn9jjdHHM/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn More About The Host: https://whywehunt.ca And Follow Jenn on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Diy2NptGJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Or Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Diy2NptGJ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Horrible People Podcast chats with people who live life “off the beaten path”. From hunters and homesteaders to outdoor adventurers and self-reliant thinkers, guests share their stories, experiences, and unique lifestyles during relaxed, open-minded conversations. The podcast challenges stereotypes, uncovers the truth about unconventional ways of living, and explores who the people labeled as "horrible" truly are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Grizzly Killed Our Calf: Now What? || Rural Range Podcast || Ep. 2
In this episode, Brittany Semenoff shares a hard look at life on the ranch after a grizzly bear killed one of their first-calf heifers’ calves just a mile from home. Mark and Brittany discuss how predator pressure affects cattle, herd behavior, family life, and the emotional and financial toll of losing livestock, while also exploring the role of the BC livestock protection program and the need for practical predator management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Public Land Under Pressure: Manitoba's Seal River Watershed || HC Podcast || Ep. 170
In this episode, we explore the complexities and challenges of conservation efforts in Manitoba, focusing on the Seal River Watershed Park proposal and Canada's 30 x 30 biodiversity initiative. Dennis Schindler from the Manitoba Wildlife Federation provides insight into stakeholder concerns, government actions, and the future of public land access across Canada. You Fuel the Mission. We Deliver the Impact https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/become-a-monthly-supporter-2 Brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Accessible Hunter || Horrible People Podcast || Ep. 24
It's official: Greg is a Horrible Person. In this inspiring interview, Greg Traynor, known as the Accessible Hunter, shares his journey from a diving accident to becoming a passionate advocate for adaptive hunting. Discover practical tips, innovative equipment, and community support that empower hunters with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors. Meet Greg: https://www.instagram.com/accessiblehunter/ Meet Jenn, the host: https://www.instagram.com/whyjennhunts/ Horrible People Podcast chats with people who live life “off the beaten path”. From hunters and homesteaders to outdoor adventurers and self-reliant thinkers, guests share their stories, experiences, and unique lifestyles during relaxed, open-minded conversations. The podcast challenges stereotypes, uncovers the truth about unconventional ways of living, and explores who the people labeled as "horrible" truly are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the real keystone players are invisible, microscopic, and often overlooked? In this eye-opening episode, Mark deconstructs the narrative of large predators as the primary regulators of ecosystems. Using an ecological perspective, Mark reveals the species that hold the true power over habitat health, biodiversity, and resilience. You’ll discover that ecosystems are complex networks, not simple pyramid hierarchies, and that prioritizing charismatic megafauna might obscure the real drivers of ecological stability. In this episode Mark breaks down: the origins of the apex predator and keystone species concepts, why Yellowstone’s ecosystem hasn’t been the dramatic wilderness transformation it’s often made out to be and how scientific narratives are skewed by a mammal-centric bias. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why Alberta's Hunting Regulations Changed: The Critical Role of Hunter Feedback || HC Podcast || Ep. 169
Explore the unexpected turn in Alberta's wildlife management as we delve into the reasons behind the withdrawal of a new hunting regulation. Uncover the powerful influence of community voices and the delicate balance between conservation goals and public sentiment. Matt Besko, Executive Director of the Hunting Branch of Alberta offers a transparent look into the decision-making process that shapes hunting opportunities and resource management. The conversation also covers harvest management goals, landowner concerns, the future of access and value of respectful feedback. Brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Predators & Producers: The BC Livestock Protection Program || Rural Range Podcast || Ep. 1
Discover how British Columbia's innovative Livestock Protection Program balances wildlife conservation with the economic realities of livestock producers. Kevin Van Damme shares insights into the program’s success in reducing predator conflicts through strategic management, investigation, and prevention. BC Livestock Protection Program https://www.cattlemen.bc.ca/bcca-programs/livestock-protection-program.htm 24-hour hotline 1‐844‐852‐5788 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Canadian Farmers || Horrible People Podcast || Ep. 23
It's official: Lyna is a Horrible Person. Lyna Rempel discusses her inspiring journey, hunting adventures and addressing misconceptions about food safety, environmental impact, and the importance of balancing pest control with crop yield. The conversation highlights the nuanced realities farmers face and the importance of understanding the full picture in agriculture. Horrible People Podcast chats with people who live life “off the beaten path”. From hunters and homesteaders to outdoor adventurers and self-reliant thinkers, guests share their stories, experiences, and unique lifestyles during relaxed, open-minded conversations. The podcast challenges stereotypes, uncovers the truth about unconventional ways of living, and explores who the people labeled as "horrible" truly are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why Saskatchewan is Restricting U.S. Duck Hunters || HC Podcast || Ep. 168
Why are American duck hunters suddenly being restricted in Saskatchewan? In this episode, Rob Olson joins Mark and Curtis and lays out the growing controversy around Saskatchewan’s new restrictions on U.S. duck hunters — a move that’s sparking frustration in the flyways, raising questions about fairness, and reshaping decades of cross border hunting tradition. If you hunt the Central or Mississippi Flyways, or you care about how wildlife policy gets shaped behind the scenes, this episode matters. Brough to you by J Martin Taxidermy Help Fuel our Mission https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/become-a-monthly-supporter-2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Community Action Can Restore Moose Populations in Alberta || AB Conservationist Podcast || Ep. 9
Northern Alberta’s moose are struggling, and the reasons aren’t as simple as you think. Bob Heyde joins us to unpack the data, the cultural context, and the community led efforts reshaping moose conservation. Learn how Indigenous partners, outfitters, and grassroots campaigns are protecting vulnerable cows and calves and why shifting harvest practices could change everything. If you care about wildlife, this episode shows how local action can drive real recovery. Brought to by The Alberta Professional Outfitters Society Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever wonder if your snow tires are more reliable than bear spray? In this episode, journalist Wes Siler joins Mark Hall to dig into the real science behind grizzly encounters, bear spray, and firearms and why much of what you’ve been told might put you at risk. Wes breaks down the myths, the misleading studies, and the hard truths about what works in bear country. From flawed success rate claims to the dangers of false confidence, this conversation exposes the misinformation shaping outdoor safety and offers practical, science backed strategies for hunters, hikers, and anyone living or working in bear country. If you’re ready to rethink your safety plan and challenge the narratives you’ve always heard hit play and get the facts that could save your life. Links: Wes Siler's Substack - https://wessiler.substack.com/ Instagram - https://instagram.com/wessiler Outside Magazine Article on Bear Defense Science - https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/exploration-survival/does-bear-spray-work/ Gunsight Academy - https://gunsight.com Tactic MT - Surviving the Grizz Course - https://tacticmt.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Colorado Fur Ban, Etsy Policy & Wolf Snare Design || Truth About Fur || Ep. 17
This episode dives into the fast‑changing landscape of wildlife policy and sustainable use. We break down Colorado’s proposed fur sale ban, Etsy’s sudden decision to remove all fur listings, and what these moves mean for trappers, artisans, conservationists, and the broader industry. Plus: insights from global market trends, humane trapping innovation, and why science‑based management matters more than ever. Topics: Colorado Fur Ban • Etsy Policy Changes • Sustainable Use • Wildlife Management • Trapping & Markets • Conservation Policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Passion Project || Horrible People Podcast || Ep. 22
It's official: LA is a Horrible Person. Lori-Anne Horst and Jenn chat about hunting, outdoor skills, and the inspiring work of the Canadian Sports Women's Society (CSS). Learn about hunting tips, safety, organizing outdoor events, and encouraging more women and kids to get outside and learn essential life skills. We also talk all things Lori-Anne and the incredible ways she gives to her local community and the hunting community. Meet LA: https://www.instagram.com/lori_anne_horst/ Learn About CSS: https://www.instagram.com/canadiansportswomansociety.inc/ Learn More About The Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/horriblepeoplepodcast_/ Horrible People Podcast chats with people who live life off the beaten path. From hunters and homesteaders to outdoor adventurers and self-reliant thinkers, guests share their stories, experiences, and unique lifestyles during relaxed, open-minded conversations. The podcast challenges stereotypes, uncovers the truth about unconventional ways of living, and explores who the people labeled as "horrible" truly are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lessons From The Field: A Career Investigating Predator Attacks || HC Podcast || Ep. 167
Step into the high-stakes world of predator attack investigations. Kevin Van Dam joins Mark and Curtis for an expert-driven exploration of large carnivore behaviour, emergency response protocols, and essential wildlife safety practices. This compelling episode traces the evolution of predator attack investigation programs across North America, reveals the warning signs that can help identify dangerous animal behaviour, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how professionals manage wildlife incident scenes while protecting both officers and the public. It also examines the lasting human impact of these rare but serious events, underscores the importance of clear community communication, and delivers practical, actionable safety strategies for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone spending time in predator country. Help Fuel Our Mission at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/become-a-monthly-supporter-2 Brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wild Chef || Horrible People Podcast || Ep. 21
It's official: Tiffany is a Horrible Person. Tiffany Bader dives into her fascinating journey from a sociology graduate to a chef and wild food enthusiast. In this episode, Tiffany shares her passion for foraging, seasonal cooking, and hunting, including eye-opening experiences in Sweden. From exploring medicinal plants to experimenting in the kitchen and connecting with nature, she gives tips on living a more wild, flavorful life. Plus, hear about her adventures at a Wild Women’s Retreat, firearm education, and upcoming hunting trips. Meet Tiffany: https://www.instagram.com/bader.tiffany/ Meet Jenn: https://www.instagram.com/whyjennhunts/ Learn More About The Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/horriblepeoplepodcast_/ Horrible People Podcast chats with people who live life off the beaten path. From hunters and homesteaders to outdoor adventurers and self-reliant thinkers, guests share their stories, experiences, and unique lifestyles during relaxed, open-minded conversations. The podcast challenges stereotypes, uncovers the truth about unconventional ways of living, and explores who the people labeled as "horrible" truly are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Late Start That Changed Everything || HC Podcast || Ep. 166
Explore the inspiring journey of Renee Thornton, who transitioned from a novice to a conservation advocate, reshaping the role of women in wildlife management. This episode delves into the Women Hunt™ Program by the Wild Sheep Foundation, highlighting its impact on bridging gender gaps and fostering leadership. Renee shares her personal evolution, overcoming fears and societal barriers, while championing ethical hunting practices globally. Discover the unique value of women-only training courses and the critical attributes of female leaders in conservation. Gain insights from international perspectives on wildlife management and the future of sustainable hunting. Perfect for aspiring hunters and conservationists, this episode ignites passion and challenges perceptions, emphasizing the transformative power of community and legacy in the outdoors. Women Hunt Program & Application for the 2026 Field To Fork Program https://www.wildsheepfoundation.org/What-We-Do/Women-Hunt https://wildsheepfoundation.grantplatform.com/ Support our mission by joining our monthly supporter program https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/become-a-monthly-supporter-2 The Hunter Conservationist Podcast is brought to you by J Martin Taxidermy https://jmartintaxidermy.com/home/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
