Welcome And Opening Prayer

SPEAKER_02 0:24

Hey guys, how's it going? Zach here, that goes to the hunt behind the hunt, powered by the Buddhax hunting team. So we have a different kind of episode for you guys tonight. We're gonna Alexa and I are gonna go through how you overcome and conquer your doubts. But before we get into that, I'm gonna start off with a quick prayer. So Lord, I thank you so much for the opportunity for Alexa and I to come together and just chat, Lord. And I pray that you just speak through us and just share our passion for the outdoors. But more importantly, that we just focus mainly every day. In your name I pray. Amen.

SPEAKER_00 0:59

Amen.

SPEAKER_02 1:00

So Alexa, welcome to the show. Yeah, yes, thanks for having me. I appreciate you coming on.

SPEAKER_00 1:06

Yes, thanks for having me.

SPEAKER_02 1:07

Yeah, absolutely. So yeah, we were we were talking about before we got online or uh recording, we were talking about how you just overcome doubts. Like you're you're in the tree and you want a deer or any type of animal that you're hunting to just come by, like and you're explaining something amazing how you just how you just like are like, God, please help me. Like I thought that was absolutely incredible how you just talked about that.

SPEAKER_00 1:33

Yeah, so you know, you either whatever you're hunting, like you said, like I for me, it's white tails or turkeys is kind of what I usually chase. And like this happens to me every deer season. Like, I want that 160-inch deer to step out in front of me within bow range, and like you just you're sitting there in the tree, and you're just like, you know, like God please, I know it's silly to pray about this because it's you know, it's it's a hobby and it's like it's just something that I want at the time. And you know, it's just like you pray like I

Why Doubt Hits In Silence

SPEAKER_00 2:05

I need this, I want this like um confidence, and I want to win. So, you know, you're praying, and honestly, like honestly, nature's so beautiful, and so it's just a great time to actually just talk to yourself, talk to the Lord, think about all the things. So, you know, it's easy to sit there and talk out loud, just like I want this, but you know, like it's you know, God and nature, like it's not our time, it's they're not on our schedule, you know. So they don't they don't care. Um, and it'll happen. And you know, so I have a friend group that I I talk to, you know, it's nice to just vent to them, and you're just you're mad because you're like, oh, it's the neighbors or the pressure, or you know, there's there's so many things that you know just are you know what I mean?

SPEAKER_02 2:59

Like a lot of yeah, like there's a lot of stuff that just comes across yeah, yeah. We just there's there's just so much that comes through your head, especially when you're just sitting there and it's so quiet, and you are just you're there, you're it's almost like you suffer in silence in a way, and you're just like looking around, and that's where a lot of doubt starts to creep in. I've noticed when I could be on a long run, or I could just be sitting in my saddle, and all of a sudden I just start thinking about the negative things, and that's what Satan wants. He wants you to start thinking about those things because they become a reality for you. And I sit there and I'm just like, you know what? Not today, dude. And I literally sit there and pray. And like the other day when I was on my turkey hunt, this is kind of funny. Like, I was I was sitting there and I had a moment, and it was beautiful weather, sunny as all get out. There's no rain in the forecast. Yeah, and I had a lot of doubt in my mind, and I was like, dude, you know what? I'm not hunting right now. I I need to focus on God. I put my bow down, and I literally was already sitting up against a tree, and I just started praying to God, and I was like, I don't know why I am in so much doubt right now. Like, you're always there, you are constantly providing for me, like, and there should be no reason why I have this doubt. And I just for like an hour, I just like gave it all to him and I prayed. I literally raised my hands up and worshipped him, and all of a sudden, this rain cloud came out of nowhere and just started downpouring. And I was like, There's no rain in it, and I took it as like God just washing the stress away from me, and I was like, This is amazing. I literally took my hat off, took my jacket off, and I just sat there and I was like, This is this is exactly what I needed, and then within a moment it was gone and it was sunny again. And then this turkey comes around the corner, and I know he I know he sees me, and I'm looking at him, and he does like a little nod and turns around, goes back the way he he came. And I was like, What just happened? Like, did that just like just happen? Yeah, it was just the coolest moment of probably one of the top five moments of my life that that happened. I was like, especially like just feeling that sense of relief that he was there, like that helped me out so much.

SPEAKER_00 5:24

So, yeah, it's just changing your mindset because we can all get there because like we live in a world where we want convenience and that instant gratification, and like hunting is just the opposite of that.

SPEAKER_02 5:36

Oh, yeah, it's you are waiting constantly.

SPEAKER_00 5:39

And you there's failures and there's discipline, but there's you know, respect and reward, it's it's all the things, but similar story. So it was my very first bow kill. Same thing, I was by myself, and like I'm like, I wasn't seeing anything. And I'm like just said they're praying, like, I want this like so badly. Like, I want this deer, I want a deer to come to me. I won't have to be like, is that 30 yards? Is that 20 yards? And I wanted to make that decision on my own. And like, I and I love that, just doing like me making the calls, and you know, I'm on my you know, hunt solo hunt by yourself. So it's just it's all on me. Like, there's no one saying, like, draw back now, or you know, so it was my first bow kill. So I prayed and I'm like, please have a deer come out. And this, seriously, this little, I shouldn't say it was like 120 inch 10 point walks out, and I'm like looking, I'm like, oh man, you're not you're not quite big enough. And then I'm Benock, and I'm like, or are you? And I'm like, maybe you're maybe you're bigger than what I think you are. So I'm like, okay, you know what? If you come to me, it's meant to be, and I'm shooting you. And sure enough, that deer just like starts moseying over to me,

A Prayer That Changed The Hunt

SPEAKER_00 6:55

and I'm like, you get any closer to me, and so then, anyways, they he's and he stopped right in front of me. And I shot him. Now, I when I found him, I'm like, okay, definitely a 120-inch deer. He was young, probably should have let him walk away. But in the moment, I my heart was pounding and I was like fired up about it. And it was my first bow kill. Like I said, so I yeah, that's amazing.

SPEAKER_02 7:21

Like for me, my first bow kill was a spike, but I didn't care. Like, I shoot what makes me happy, but I also shoot to provide. Um, like my freezer is is packed right now, which is amazing. Like, to be able to have a full freezer is just oh, that's so good. But like, yeah, my my first bow kill was a spike. My best friend was in the field behind me and he heard the the thwack, and I was just like, that just happened. That is happening, yeah. Of course, he was talking trash, but at the same time, like he gave me like the biggest hug, and he was so happy for me. And I was like, so glad that my best friend was there with me. But it was just like, of course, as dragging this thing, he he was talking trash, but it's it's all fun and games.

SPEAKER_00 8:04

Oh, for sure. And I I will say I had a few people that were like, Alexa, why did you shoot that? And I'm like, Yeah, like I know. Um, like I understand what it takes, you know, to get a deer to be 160. But I'm like, listen, let me just get that out of my system. Because I was pretty hardcore. Like I told myself, I'm like, it's not 150, I'm not shooting it. Well, in that moment, I'm like, listen, I prayed for this. It literally just he, you know, came to me, he stopped there. I had my bow, I did it all myself, and I'm like, I was happy as can be. So yeah, and that's another thing, you just gotta block out the noise, and like I feel like that's everywhere, you know. Like, don't get me wrong, I am one like I love to fill my freezer as well, but I also want like I want that mature deer, I want that big mature as well. But like, I feel like there's so much pressure on people, and I, you know, at first I thought it's just a small town, you know, like you know, because you don't want someone being like, why'd she shoot that? Or, you know, but I think it's everywhere, and it's kind of like you know, if it if it gets you excited and makes you happy, like I mean, whatever, you know.

SPEAKER_02 9:11

Yeah, yeah, for real. There's there's so they've made everything a competition in the hunting industry, and uh yes, it's fun, but at the same time, it's like really, is this really hunting? Like, yeah, it's fun. You're getting the biggest, most mature animal you want, but at the same time, it's you going out there, learning the land, learning how to track, figuring out which way they're coming in and coming out, so that way you can actually harvest an animal. And that to me, that's the fun part is being able is is out witting them in their home environment. So that's the fun part to me when they come through and it's just like, yeah, yes, I did everything right, yeah.

SPEAKER_00 9:57

And that's yeah, and it's it's the biggest reward, and it's like it's yeah, you know, like it's hard to explain. I mean, I know people at hunt like they they understand this, they get it, but yeah, it's just like you went out here and you did this, and like you played the game and you made the decisions, and you you know, you bring it home and you get to put that on your table, like it's the most wholesome feeling.

SPEAKER_02 10:18

It really, yeah, it really is, and and there are times like you're sitting there and nothing like there's been guys I know that have gone hunting for like five years straight and haven't seen a single deer, and they've hunted almost every single day during whitetail season, and it's just like the doubt that comes over them, they're like, What am I doing wrong? Yeah, oh man, and it's like then they bring their their cousin with them and they kill the biggest boon and crock they've ever seen in their life, and they're just like, dang it, I've had it!

SPEAKER_00 10:51

It doesn't make sense, and you're just like you go out here one time, and I've been out here, you know, grinding away.

SPEAKER_02 10:58

Yeah, yeah, and I yeah, I'll tell my buddy that he he went about two years without killing a deer, and then finally he got one on opening day, and I was like, heck yeah, finally you got that out of the system. But like yeah, the year before that before he went on his two-year skunk, I I got skunked the year before, and I didn't see or shoot at anything. I was like, this is weird. But it was also my first year in that area. I had zero time to scout. I I kind of hindered myself because I wasn't a mobile hunter then. Um, but the the best way how I overcame that was just watching everyone else succeed around me because it just like it kept my spirits up because it's just like you don't want to dwell in that crap, you want to be able to be like, yo, dude, I am so happy that you hardly this animal, man. Like that's awesome. It doesn't matter if it's a doe, spike, a squirrel. Like, like I'm a short story writer, I'll write a story on people killing a cockroach if they want. Like, I don't yeah, if it makes them happy, I'm gonna write it. Like, that's just how it is.

SPEAKER_00 12:03

Yeah, for sure. I'm lucky that I have people like in my corner that will, like, you know, root for me, you know,

First Bow Kills And Second Guessing

SPEAKER_00 12:10

and try to help me. You know, if I'm after a deer, they're gonna tell me, like, hey, here's what you need to be doing and stuff. And yeah, I mean, but there is so many, like you said, so many doubts. Like, you can sit there and you're like, Do I am I doing something like wrong? Am I a terrible hunter? Like, I buy suck, like haven't seen a deer for three weeks, you know.

SPEAKER_02 12:30

No, yeah, like last year for me.

SPEAKER_00 12:33

It's a mind game for sure, but it's I feel like it's like any other hobby, you know, like yeah, and I feel like that just comes with it. And I feel like once you lose that passion and that, like, you know, the highs and lows of it, it's like, hey, if I ever lose that passion and that I'm gonna say like anger, probably, then I'm done.

SPEAKER_02 12:50

Yeah, yeah. My uh my outfitter says that to me all the time. He's like, once it's no longer fun, don't even bother doing it anymore. Yeah, and when he took me on my bison, like he and I got like he and I have been really close, and he's just a phenomenal person. His name's Jeff. He runs uh 4B outfitters out in Oklahoma. And when he and I were connecting last September, um, all he asked for was like, hey man, if you come out, man, like we'll get you hooked up, we'll set you up as well, and and make sure we get you on a good deer. I was like, 100%, dude. I trust you. Yeah, got out there and killed a deer, which was awesome. And it was a 12-point buck, and it was the my biggest fuck of all time so far. And honestly, like ever since then, he and I become like really, really good friends. And he tells me all the time, like, just don't let it, don't let the competition outweigh the fun that you have. And I was like, dude, you're absolutely right, man. And yeah, you and I've become like really, really close. He's it's like almost like brotherly, like brotherhood for each other, and I love it.

SPEAKER_00 14:00

Yeah, yeah, no, that's that's absolutely true. Like that you said, like the competition, and it can get to you because you know, you see these people on Instagram and you're like, like, that's I want to kill that deer, and like you know, it'll happen. And like, I just think the people who put in the time and mostly like just respect the animal and like just respect like being out in nature, and like I had to remind myself that too. Like, I mean, even though like I'm sitting here and I'm not even seeing like a dough, I'm like, I'm still loving it, like, I'm on a high.

SPEAKER_02 14:36

Yeah, and that's for real. A lot of people take that for granted, too. Like, being out in the woods is is like you said, it's wholesome, it's good for your soul. Like, oh, it is. I don't know. I just feel so at ease out there, especially when it when it's like just oaks all around you. Like, yeah, of course, there's some pine trees or whatever, but it's just it's open, you can see every other animal around you, just nature going about its business. There are times I'll just sit in the saddle and I'll just lean back, and I'm just like arms spread out, and I'm just like, oh, this is awesome.

SPEAKER_00 15:07

Yeah, this is like soaking it up. Like, I'm gonna feel this all the time.

SPEAKER_02 15:10

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And it's yeah, I am I'm so excited to get my kids more involved into it this year. Like, I'm no one judge me. I'm getting them hooked up with a crossbow, um, just because you know it's it's their age.

SPEAKER_01 15:24

It's their age, yep.

SPEAKER_02 15:26

Yeah, um, but they'll learn, hey, once you once you can pull back the 50-pound bow, that's it.

SPEAKER_00 15:32

Yeah, yeah, absolutely. Yeah, that's same.

SPEAKER_02 15:36

Not the not I'm just dishing on y'all crossbow hunters, like that's it doesn't bother me if you use a crossbow, longbow, or whatever you want, like whatever makes you happy. Some people are just injured, but yeah, so like I just I can't wait to get them out there. I know for the first maybe five sits, they're gonna be restless. Um, yeah, but and that's expected. Yeah, and that's expected, and it's just teaching them how to ease into it. But the biggest part is is teaching them that you're not out there just to harvest an animal, you're out there to connect with God, you're out there to connect with nature and connect with yourself. Like oh, it's that's yeah, that's where a lot of people forget. Like, you're out there for for your own mental health, if you will. But absolutely, yeah, and that's that's my go-to.

SPEAKER_00 16:25

That's when I've had like the hardest conversations with myself. Like, sometimes I zone out of hunting and I'm just I'm figuring out all my problems. Like, I mean, you know, and like don't get me wrong, like I I want to win. Like, when I'm out there turkey hunting, like I I I want to get turkey, and when I'm deer hunting, like I'm focused, but and you know, and I do I get mad at my neighbors, and I've gotten mad at family members because like I'm like, hey, sometimes I just want to be on the same page as them, you know? And like, yeah, and I've I have I get mad at myself because I'm like, I should not be, you know, like I can't get mad at them. We're not the same kind of hunting people, like we're not on that same page. But once again, like you're getting out of bed and you're chasing after an animal, like yeah, I just have to, you know, that just comes with the passion of it, just because, like, you know, it's like I know I know what it takes to get a deer on this farm and where these turkeys are at, and I know what you're doing is I'm gonna mess that up. But you know, it's it's out of my control. So it's like things that aren't in your control, you just have to like let it go. And that's everywhere. I think everybody has to complain about their neighbors at some point in time. But it's just you know, if you're just like, hey, I'm a better hunter than they are, I'm just going to, you know, if they're not playing the wind right, I'm gonna just do whatever I can, and I'm still getting out here, and they're not gonna ruin my hunt.

SPEAKER_02 17:50

So yeah, that's that's huge. Like realizing, like, yeah, you're frustrated here and there, but you're just like, you know what? Figuring out yourself in the woods is huge. Um, yeah, like self-criticism goes a long way, and a lot of people forget about that. But the biggest thing that drives me nuts is when people can't take criticism, they don't take it well, and then they get really, really frustrated and they just let it get out of hand. It's like, dude, there's no reason to get this frustrated over a little bit of criticism. I'm guilty of that, I'm sure everyone else is, but as I've gotten older, like I've realized, shoot, I need to take a step back and realize what they're saying and actually think about what they're saying, instead of just impulse, go for the throat,

Blocking Noise And Trophy Pressure

SPEAKER_02 18:45

like screw you, man. Like there's been so many times where someone says something, and I'm just like, shut up. Like, it's just like you're speaking to my business.

SPEAKER_00 18:54

Yeah, yes, I can totally relate, totally relate. Yeah, I just had this conversation, honestly, just with my um cousin. I he's actually like my boss and stuff too. But he's like, Yeah, he's like, listen, like he's like, I was the same way you were. He's like, Don't get me wrong. He's like, I used to get so mad, and he's like, like, it would just take the whole fun out of hunting. And he's like, but you know, like, once again, he's like, you just have to just be you know, be a better hunter than them. A therap, you know, if the deer's here and they're sitting here, and you're like, that's gonna scare that deer away. He's like, no, it's not. He's like, you know where the deer's at. He's like, you hunt it how you think it should be. So, you know, like, but but then you you just yeah, you just get mad in the moment, and like, I'm gonna call out my brother on this because I've gotten so mad at my brother, and my brother's like chill as can be, and I've said things to him, and he doesn't say anything back. I'm like, I'm probably lucky, but and I do feel guilty, but I'm almost like, man, I'm like, your scent is blowing to me, like it's in the bedding area, like you're gonna scare these deer. So I'm like texting him all this stuff, and he's just like, no, it's fine. I'm like, but you know what? Like, then again, I'm like, he's he likes it, let him hunt how he wants, and I'm out of my control, so yeah, yeah, exactly.

SPEAKER_02 20:16

The the biggest thing that my um my outfit always says, don't guide the guide, especially when they're out there trying to help. Because I've helped him on a couple of hunts where it's like telling this guy's like, hey, now when as soon as you see first light, you're gonna see silhouettes over to your left. And they're like, no, no, I won't. And then all of a sudden, there's like, oh dang. Should I shoot? I'm like, no, you can't see what it is. Wait, man. Yeah, yeah. And then um, there's and then there's times where like these deer will come in and you'll see like a solid A-point. He's like, Oh, I'm gonna take that. I was like, wait, there's a 12-point, it's gonna come out here in like five minutes, I'm telling you. But then they're impatient, and then all of a sudden they take the shot, and then they look over and there's a 12-point just staring at them, and they're like, Oh, it's like, yeah, man, like, but at the same time, I completely get when people get so frustrated so quickly, and it's just like, Yeah, yeah, I can see why you're mad. Yeah, that's that's at work all the time. I always say, when um this, I know this gets underneath my boss's skin, and honestly, I don't care because sometimes it just needs to be said, like he'll be yelling and blah blah blah, and he's like, Oh, I'm in charge. I'm like, if you're in charge, why are you yelling? And he just like screw you.

SPEAKER_01 21:36

Yes, leadership, it's all you can do, man.

SPEAKER_00 21:40

Yeah, no, that's and yeah, it's just one of those things you gotta control your emotions. And I think, like, you know, like people that are mentally tough, like, you know, it happens to you and you do not let that ruin your day. And like, same with hunting, like things can, you know, beginning of season can go wrong, but like if you're like mentally tough and you just Have to just like take that, let it go. It's not going to ruin my hunt. It's not going to ruin my day of work, you know.

SPEAKER_02 22:09

Yeah. There's been so many. I don't want to say so many hunts, but there's been quite a few hunts where nothing's going my way. Like, I'm walking in, Gabe Morton comes up right off the rip. Oh, it's your license, and you're just like, okay, here you go, dude. He's like, what kind of bow are you using? Or it's like, what kind of gun? I'm using a bow. He's like, okay, are you making sure you're using broadheads? You just have to stare at him like, really, dude? Really? Stupid questions. And then you get in there, and then all of a sudden, like you're behind, you're feeling rushed, and you're just forgetting the little things, like you're putting a stick up wrong, or whatever it is. And then you're just like, All right, great. I know. And then you start thinking about like, what did I miss? What did I what's going on here? And then you're frustrated. Like the only way you can do is just like just let it roll off your back. And sometimes just stuff happens. Game warnings are are, you know how they are. They're they're there for a job, but yeah, at the same time, they're human.

SPEAKER_00 23:10

So I last year in uh deer season, it was in rifle season, which rifle season in Missouri is like one of those things that I could probably get a little fired up about as well. But anyways, I was I was hunting and I like was watching this buck. Like he had ran, like these two little bucks ran out, and I'm like, okay. And I'm like, something else. I feel like I heard something else coming through, and this like bigger deal deer ran out. And I'm like, oh man, something must have uh well, I heard so I heard a shot earlier, and so I'm like, man, that he must have missed, or you maybe jumped up another deer. Anyways, my neighbor, like it was like five minutes later. So I'm in a stand, like I'm by myself, and I'm like watching this deer to the north of me. And I'm so I'm like like focused up, like everything, you know, you're you think you're by yourself out there, and you're supposed to be by yourself out there. Like everything's silent, you're just like, I'm focused on this deer, and I just happen to look over, and there's like my neighbor like trespassed on me and scared me. Like, I can't explain. I'm like, I mean, scared me to death. And I'm and I'm just gonna be from the city and like never met him before. And I'm like, first of all, there's a guy out here with me in front of me with a gun. Like, that was my first thought. I'm like, who is this guy? Also, I'm like hunting this deer as we speak, anyways. That's kind of a long story short, he's he was looking for this deer. I'm like, well, it's alive. I'm hunting it, and now the deer's probably gone. But I mean, that kind of that kind of got me fired up. But like, you know, then again, I'm his side of the story. He thought he shot a deer and he was just trying to do the right thing of looking for it. He could have done something a little bit probably different, like maybe got my number and called me. However, you know, it's one of those things, like I did, you know, we exchanged numbers, like, if it never happens again. But that was, I think I was more scared than Matt. I mean, I was mad after the fact, but at the moment I was like, so then I'm like, yeah, put that down as one-o thing this season that's just gone wrong. But yeah.

SPEAKER_02 25:25

Yeah, yeah. There's I I've had, I was in a blind. This was probably like three years ago, three or four years ago. I was in a oh, yeah, three years ago for sure. I was in a blind, and I see this guy with a red lens just come straight at me. So I like to get in there

Public Land Problems And Trespass Stories

SPEAKER_02 25:40

right at an hour and a half before sunrise. Like, I don't know, yeah, yeah. And I was sitting there and I see this white light is coming at me, changes to red, changes to green, changes to white. I'm like, what is this Jackalon doing? And he comes right into literally, like he's like in my blind basically, and I'm like, and he's just shining me in the face, I'm just staring at him, like, yes, and he's just like, Oh, I didn't realize you're in here. I'm like, You're like, You have a white light shining in my face, big dog. Like, do you think I was in here? Like, if there's a video crew there, they would have died laughing from my sarcasm. Oh my gosh. No, Jack, you think? Yeah, like well, well, he's just like he goes, like, do you mind if I just go over here? And I'm like, Where's over here? He's like, Oh, I'm just because it's public, and he's just like, Oh, like a hundred yards that way. I was like, Yeah, I mind.

SPEAKER_00 26:33

Yeah, you're watching yards.

SPEAKER_02 26:38

I was like, You go 500 yards, yeah.

SPEAKER_00 26:41

Like, what are you doing? Oh man, people just don't just don't get it. It's frustrating to people who like kind of you know get it a little bit. You're just like, Yeah, man, like you shouldn't want to go. Yeah, you shouldn't actually want to be this close to me as well.

SPEAKER_02 26:58

Yeah, I was just like, I sat there, I pulled up my phone, I'm I'm texting my buddy Ron, and I'm like, bro, you are not gonna believe this. Yeah, I told from the story, and he's just like that is one good thing.

SPEAKER_00 27:13

There, there's always a story, always a story, yeah, whether it's good or bad.

SPEAKER_02 27:19

Oh, but you know, and also like him walking in. Oh, I didn't know you were here.

SPEAKER_00 27:23

Yeah. Also, you know, another thing to point out. No, you're good, yeah. No, another thing to point out, like I always feel like like during turkey season, I always feel like it gets brought up like how people like I feel like everybody thinks that you're supposed to kill a turkey a certain way, like you're supposed to go, you're supposed to set up against a tree, you know, do all the things, and like some people get like worked up about if they're they use a blind or they use a decoy. And I'm like, I don't know where we've put all this like stipulation on it, but I'm like, if they're hunting the animal and they're doing it right, and they're you know, it's no cruelty involved, like you do you, as when it comes to like turkey hunting and stuff. Like, I don't know, you know, it's just like you said, there's there's competition and there's just so many people that think it has to be done a certain way. And I'm like, I'm just here, I'm just happy for anybody that you know gets what gets what they want. If they got their turkey, however, they got it, like good for you.

SPEAKER_02 28:22

Yeah, that's I thrive off other success. Like I get almost emotionally excited because it's like you just know how hard they work. Like the girl I did the podcast with last night, names Kayla. I was ecstatic for her because I've watched her progress from trying to figure out how to hunt turkey from the end of Whitetail season up until she got this Tom that she got. But like seeing the process the entire time uh was not just rewarding for her, it's rewarding for her viewers as well. And it's just like I love that. And being able for her to take a Tom that had an 11-inch and seven eighths beard or something, I was like, oh my god, and that was her first first tom, and like I'm like, that is a that's bone and crock for a for a turkey for turkey. Yeah, yeah, good for you, and that's another thing.

SPEAKER_00 29:18

Like, yeah, everybody should be happy for people's success, no matter if it's hunting or in business, like yes, um, there there is so much uh I mean, probably jealousy with a lot of it, but you know, it's that's everywhere. Like, I feel like everybody should like want to help other people. Yes, get the deer, get the turkey, get you know, elk, whatever it is. Like, I don't know why we can't be learning all the time from somebody. Like, I feel like people should share their knowledge and yeah, just be happy for people's success.

SPEAKER_02 29:50

Yeah, I feel like that's also like 90% of the hunting community. Um, I've had people contact me trying to figure out how to do certain things, and I help them to the best of my ability. Yeah, I had a guy reach out that he wanted to start an Instagram page very similar to mine. I'm like, go for it, man. Like, I want you to succeed. If you if you succeed past me, that's amazing. Like, I want that to happen for you.

SPEAKER_01 30:15

Yep.

SPEAKER_02 30:15

Um, and but then there's also those ones that just get very upset. And I had this happen to me recently. Someone got really upset with me because I started building arrows and stuff, and he and I no longer have a relationship because of it. And you know what? That's that's okay. Like it it hurts a little bit because he and I became good friends, but then he got upset with what I was trying to do as well because he was doing the same thing, but at the end of the day, like your name's not on it, and yeah, everyone does it, so yeah, and everybody can do the same thing, you know, like there's room for everybody. Yeah, absolutely. And I think that's what the narrative needs to change in today's society. Um, everyone's so wrapped up in fear with the media and whatnot. And honestly, like we gotta get out of that mindset. We need to start focusing on helping each other, being happy for those that are thriving, not focusing on the doubt, like ha ha, like gotcha. Like, I hate those, like, I can't stand it. Like, when people get the like the whole like, ah, got you, like, caught you doing whatever. And it's just like instead of like, hey man, you should probably not do that. Should probably do this, help each other out. Like, we're so fast in jumping the gun on that.

SPEAKER_00 31:32

The hunting community, though, I have honestly have not met anybody or talked to anybody that hasn't just been like a like a 10 out of 10 person. Like, yeah, I mean, you're gonna come across some people, but you can just kind of pick out like the people who are like just genuine.

SPEAKER_02 31:46

Yeah, and I love that. Like, uh, do you know who the boutique is? The page of boutique, he does like arrow wraps and stuff.

SPEAKER_00 31:53

Um, yes, yes, yes, yes, yeah.

SPEAKER_02 31:55

Oh my gosh. So, like his success is amazing. Like, I love his story. Mike is a phenomenal guy. Like, if y'all haven't checked out the boutique raps yet, like go to his Instagram page, the boutique raps. Like, he is he is dropping some fire lately. And um, I'll tell you what, like he and I talk almost daily, and it's so fun to watch his success just because it's just like, dude, that's awesome! Like, yes, like let's go.

SPEAKER_00 32:21

Like, yes, like that's how that's how everybody should be.

SPEAKER_02 32:25

Yeah, and and I understand some people are like, oh man, why couldn't that be happening? Why can't that happen to me? It's like exactly because you're not grinding, bro. Like, get out there, like when we yeah, when we pray, we always say, like, God, please let this happen, let this happen. Yep, but he is not gonna give you the he's not gonna give you the answer, he's gonna provide you the opportunity to make something happen, and it's for us to realize what's happening in front of us. That's my take on prayer. Like, we can't just rely on the whole, like, oh, if there is a God, please bring a book, God, please bring a book into front of me. Like, that's not how that works. Someone's walking by with a book in their hands like, hey sir, what kind of book is that? Do you mind if I look at it real quick? Like, yeah, look, like we have to be that um observant to what's going on around us, mentally, spiritually, physically.

SPEAKER_00 33:17

Yeah, so true. So true. Yeah, it's just like who you who you surround yourself with, and I mean, like, and that's that's everything, you know. Like, I mean, there's people who like I don't like small town stuff. I feel like we kind of get a little bit. I I'm not just diss on small towns because I love my small town, but I feel like it kind of happens here a little bit more because it is like a really small community,

Taking Criticism Without Losing Control

SPEAKER_00 33:40

and people not gonna say be jealous, but you know, it's like I want that. And if these people have money, like, well, how did they how do where you know where they get their money from? And I'm like, listen, I'm happy they have money because like they're doing something right, and I expect I'm gonna walk up to them and I'm gonna be like, hey, listen, can you teach me like how'd how did you get there? And like, yeah, yeah, and if they're like, hey, yeah, like I'll help you, or here's what I would do, then I'm like, yeah, solid person. I mean, you're not gonna find everybody like that, but it I mean, that just drives me nuts. Like, I just I love seeing success in hunting and in business.

SPEAKER_02 34:16

Oh, yeah, same. My um, I actually had a buddy reach out to me tonight and ask me for some advice, and I didn't I was just sitting there read a book to my kid, finish this book, and I was like, hold on, dude, let me get to you, let me read this book, read the book, got to him, and I was like, Yeah, man, this is all you gotta do. And it's just like the the hardest thing in the hunting industry, though, is there's always someone always is trying to outdo the other to get ahead. Yep, yeah, they don't want to do it without stepping on toes, um, which is great, but when it comes to trying to find your your niche, that's the hardest part. And then once you find it, you gotta run with it, you you gotta make it your own. Like the guy who owns Bullpath, uh, his name is Drew. He he is obsessed with making just gear for the mobile hunter. And when he is up all night sewing, and then by day he's out mowing yards and doing whatever he has to do to survive, but then he comes home at night, and what's he doing? He's turning and burning, right? He is just grinding, and it's just like, dude, I love your mentality. Like, we I talked to him last night, and his mentality is just like, I want to succeed. I'm like, dude, I'm here to help you. What can I do to help you?

SPEAKER_00 35:29

Yeah, well, we're winning, yeah. Yeah, and it's all yeah, it's just you gotta like honestly just become obsessed with it in in the best way, and like that's yeah, how you described it sounds like what he's doing. Like, you just you're just like laser focused on it.

SPEAKER_02 35:43

Oh my gosh, yeah. He's he's an awesome dude. Um, yeah, like I got some of his gear right now. Like, I'm wearing his hat right now. Like, he yeah, phenomenal, phenomenal gear. Bullpathgear.com is like he's got all that stuff on there for the mobile hunter. And I'll tell you what, like that dude's an animal. He's just like, I'm never gonna quit doing this because he's that passionate. Like, he is he can't hunt anymore because he's so passionate about it. He can hunt, but then the pro but then his his passion for his gear is gonna not be made properly or not be made on time, and like he just wants to, he just wants this to go far for him. And I'm like, you got you got me, man. I'm like I'm gonna have to support you. Yeah, dude, it is awesome.

SPEAKER_00 36:28

And this I uh I had changed uh jobs like in the last year, and like the people I work for, I will say, like, I mean, they they want everybody that's on their team like to the top, like and they are gonna help you get there like professionally, personally. Like when you have people that like invest in you and believe in you, it's just like it's honestly like just a it's life-changing, it's incredible.

SPEAKER_02 36:54

It really is.

SPEAKER_00 36:55

It's just on it, like you know, and you always like her, I always feel like you know, like your whole life, like who you hang around, you know, blah blah blah. And then you get older and you're like, Yeah, like I see you hang around winners, and you're gonna be a winner. Like, that's just yeah, how it is.

SPEAKER_02 37:10

So it's yeah, sometimes though you'll you'll see the one outcast, and you're just like, I want to help him, and then you start bringing them in one at a time, just helping them out, and that's everywhere. And it's just like you said, hang out with if you want to be a millionaire, hang out with millionaires. If you want to be a bow hunter, hang out with bow hunters, like it's just your crowd, man.

SPEAKER_00 37:32

Yeah, it is, and like, yeah, those are the people that yeah, you learn from them, and those are the people that actually like want truly want you to succeed, and yeah, no, I yeah, I could priest on that honestly all day long because it's just like yeah, just so true.

SPEAKER_02 37:50

Yeah, so can I, and it the one thing I've always enjoyed is is when people come out of the woods and thinking like, oh, I didn't get an animal, but they come out and they have a smile on their face, and you're just like, How'd it go? Like, I didn't kill anything, but you know, I had fun, I had fun doing it. And you're just like, that's all that matters, man. Like, you're out there, you're at peace, and that's what it's all about. And we forget that. We forget that it's it's not about the harvest, it's about yourself, it's about you going out there and just realizing you still did something. Yep, you learned, you learned something new. You might have realized, like, oh, you should probably sort of shit uh set up over there instead of over here. Yes, and it's just like next time I'll get it. And it's just yeah, that's that's the big thing.

SPEAKER_00 38:35

Lesson learned. Like, yeah, I mean, I mean, hunting truly is like you say, you know, like it's a challenge, it's failure, it's discipline, it's patience. It's like it teaches you just all the things, but most importantly, like, yeah, like your mindset and just being alone. But then also, like, I feel like during turkey season, like typically, you know, some people

Community Mindset And Helping Others Win

SPEAKER_00 38:55

go by themselves, but I feel like it's more of a social. So it's like, you know, deer hunting, you I kind of do that alone, but then turkey season comes, and you know, you get with a buddy or whoever, and I feel like those are the moments where you're like, ah, you know, I wouldn't have spent time with. So, like for me, I went out, there's this guy in town, he's probably turkey hunted for like 40 plus years, and he's like, you know, he's one of the guys that he's like, I taught this person and I taught this person, so I'm like, it's your turn to teach me. So I went with him one day, and I'm like, you know, like it was we didn't have we good luck, I should say, but we didn't get a bird. But I'm like, I as like I'm happy as like, you know, I got to spend time with you, I got to learn from you, and I'm like, you know, you know more than I do, so I'm like, hey, I'm this is a win for me.

SPEAKER_02 39:36

So yeah, and it's it's all about helping each other. Like last year, this guy is it? I met him on the he, I saw an arrow because it had a lighted knock fly through the air. I heard this flack, and I was like, good for him. And it was about to be pitch black, and I was like, you know what? I'm gonna go help this dude out. So I I go, I walk over there, I see him like walking through the woods, going through the brush, and I had my light on, and I was like, hey bro, do you want some help? And he was like, I would love that. I was like, all right, I'll be right over. I was like, Where's your gear at? So I could so I can put mine. He's like, it's over there by this certain area. And I walked over, put my stuff over, and got over there, introduced myself to him, and um, it was like his first year hunting on this delay and that we're hunting. I was like, You got a bear your first time out here. He's like, Yeah, I was like, that's awesome. Congrats, man. So like we grabbed this buck, it was a spike, but at the same time, like he was trying to put me in the freezer, and I was like, Good for you, man. Congrats. He's like, Oh, you're not gonna rack on me. He's like, Why? I have no reason to, like, you're you're you're trying to provide just like me. He was like, Yeah, all right, all right. And so, like, it's that mindset of like you have to build each other up regardless of whatever happens out there, but like it's all about helping each other. You gotta get out there and help one another because if you don't, then hunting's gonna go away. You also gotta get kids out there and teach them right, because if you don't, the hunting is gonna disappear because it's already slowly declining. There's based off the tags this year that were or licenses that were sold from last year are down, and it's just been a constant downward trend, and that's shameful. It's all these tablets and social media, it's the screens, unfortunately.

SPEAKER_00 41:25

But yeah, that's what I'm saying.

SPEAKER_02 41:27

No, you're right.

SPEAKER_00 41:27

Yeah, just getting kids out there and just teaching them. And um, I think hunting and sports is probably the two most in like things that can teach you life lessons out of your age.

SPEAKER_02 41:38

100%. I agree with that statement. Yeah, like that's putting this out there. I I actually just finished a children's book and it's about that, and I can't wait to get it out. Uh, it's at the Illustrator right now, and I am super pumped to have kids or parents read this book to their kids, and it's just like, and I hope it also opens up the minds of parents that are like, oh, I should probably take my kid outside. Like, that's the whole purpose of this book, and I'm so excited. Like, when it when it's out, like I'll I'm gonna send a couple copies to people and stuff so that way they can have it and read it, and but yeah, it's not the illustrator. I'm pumped about it, but wow, we need to do it. Thank you. I appreciate that. I didn't want to, I didn't really want to bring it up, but it's just like okay, I think people need to understand that screens are not the answer for children, it's not because we can't make it the easy way for them, we or for you, because that's what it is, is for you to be lazy. Yeah, I'm guilty of it. Yeah, I'm guilty of it. And there are times where I'll catch myself and I'm like, put it down, let's go side. Come on, all of us, I'll put my phone down, we're going outside. Um, and lately, since Echoes of the Hunt has been kind of taken off, I've my phone has been glued to my hip. And the other day it kind of dawned on me. I was like, my skill, like, dad, put your phone down. I was like, You're right. Just put it down and just left it there for the weekend and came back to it. And I was like, Oh, I am so behind. But at the same time, like my kids are are the future, and I need to realize that. We as parents and as adults need to realize that.

SPEAKER_00 43:24

Yeah, no, I mean it starts with us. Like, I feel like, and I do feel like, and I hope this isn't me just like wanting this, but like I feel like people work, like people recognize it, and I think like everyone's on the same page of like, we need to, whatever's going on in this world, like it's gotta stop. But it starts with us, and I feel like we could be the change, and I feel like everybody wants to kind of go back to, I always say, like, you know, 1990 would be yes, would be nice. Um, and I I feel like we might get there. I don't know.

SPEAKER_02 43:56

The the 90s, I feel like the style of the 90s is coming back. I love it. I'm seeing all the retro vibes. Like I got my my Kool-Aid arrows behind me with the 80s vibes going on. I'm just I'm obsessed with like the teal, the pinks, the yellows, like lately. Um but yeah, like it's kind of like it's all around us.

SPEAKER_00 44:20

I mean, it's just it's just the world we live in, like it's just everywhere. And it's kind of like you wanna you wanna keep up with the trends and you wanna, you know, like hate to go not to even mention AI, but you know, like I kind of have to learn that. I don't want to, but yeah, you kind of gotta learn some of it. But like we can still go back to traditions, honestly. And honestly, hunting is a tradition, like you know, you're used to you know, waking up with your dad on opening morning, and you know, and who knows then it was probably like you know, you didn't worry about the wind, and you just picked your clothes up out of your closet and went out there, no worries at all.

SPEAKER_02 44:59

But oh, I don't honestly, I'm people are gonna laugh. I don't play the win game. I just go out there, yeah. I really don't, and honestly, I've been very successful. I'm sure I could be even more successful if I play the win, but there are times where I'm just like, you know, whatever.

SPEAKER_00 45:18

Yeah, I I do, I mean, I kind of play the win. I I do, I will say I play the win, but I mean, I don't care if if you don't and you have success, then like whatever, you know, it's kind of all what you oh my my buddy Kyle, he goes like, yeah, be careful with those turkey.

SPEAKER_02 45:35

You gotta play the win game with them, or they'll uh wend you. And I just like I die laughing every time because it's just like for the guys that are just getting into turkey hunting, they're like, Wait, what? They can smell you? Like, yeah, I know. Like, just the best thing.

SPEAKER_00 45:47

Yeah, no, that is the best thing about turkey hunting, it's just way less stressful, I feel like, than to oh no.

SPEAKER_02 45:57

We're doing this again with the oh, there we go. There we go. Okay, cool. Did you hear me? I was like, oh no, yeah, I know. Dang, I I'm I don't know what keeps happening, but it's all it's technology, it's supposed to be far advanced,

Kids Outdoors Screens And Tradition

SPEAKER_02 46:10

but it's really not.

SPEAKER_00 46:11

Yeah, go 1990s, where are you at?

SPEAKER_02 46:13

Yeah, bring up AOL. There we go. Then you're really locked in, yeah. Yeah, so yeah, yeah, as you're saying.

SPEAKER_00 46:25

Um, what were we talking about here?

SPEAKER_02 46:29

We were talking about how the yeah, wow. I just said, oh no.

SPEAKER_00 46:34

Let's see, the wind.

SPEAKER_02 46:36

Oh yeah, yeah. No, like for Turkey, like you don't you could just go out there and just not have to worry about that. You could put on bug spray, thank god. Yeah, um, especially combat all of these uh genetically modified government ticks that everyone's worried about.

SPEAKER_00 46:53

Yes, yeah, I will say there is a rise, and it is a little bit like why all of a sudden is all these people getting alpha gals?

SPEAKER_02 47:04

I know. My wife really, or like I say, just my wife's my our friend has the uh that virus or whatever it is, and she she can't eat red meat, and it's just like man, yeah. But when they came down, actually, her and her husband both have it. They came down and um we had some bison, and they can eat bison. Um, so it was like red meat, but it was just like they can have that, and they're just like, This is like a normal steak again. I was like, we can have it again tomorrow night if you want. They're like, please, that's just all I want.

SPEAKER_00 47:35

So, yeah, but there's people doing acupuncture though, and like having good luck with it.

SPEAKER_02 47:40

I hear about that.

SPEAKER_00 47:42

Yeah, I know people in our town, which we live in a small town, and it's like a weird amount of people that have alpha cow, and everyone's going to this one lady, and like there's seriously, like, I haven't ate a steak in you know X amount of years, and they're like, I can finally have a steak now. Like, wild.

SPEAKER_02 47:57

That's that's crazy how something that is not pharmaceutical related, uh not necessarily cure you, but to help you. Um, yeah, it's kind of funny, isn't it? How that works out.

SPEAKER_00 48:10

That is the thing that works out. Yeah, but now everybody's on the square. Uh, I think they're gonna have a Lyme's disease vaccine or something now.

SPEAKER_02 48:18

I'm just like, oh boy, yeah, never know what to believe on all this stuff, but yeah, I'm I'm gonna try to stay out of the political realm. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Let's not even go there. I got helpful yeah, but yeah, when it comes to just conquering your stress, conquering your doubts, getting in the woods is something that has just been back to the beginning of time, like that is where you can go be yourself, that is where you can go think and like you're saying, criticize yourself. Like that is amazing. Like, self-criticism goes the farthest for anyone, especially for me. Like, when I criticize myself on dumb stuff, I'm like, why did I do that? You could have done so much better, Zach. And then I realized like these are the things how I could have done to prevent something, and now I know in the future to not do that again. So it's being in the woods and stuff.

SPEAKER_00 49:12

Oh, yeah, just just being out there in nature, and just like you said, like just being uh by yourself, and just it's it, yeah, nature teaches you so much.

SPEAKER_02 49:23

Yeah. So your turkey that you recently just hunted, how how'd that go? How'd that go down?

SPEAKER_00 49:30

So I got my so Missouri, you can harvest two birds, but they have to be one week apart. So I got my week one bird, moved on to week two. So at this farm, I typically know like this is where they roost. Uh they usually stretch, but week two, like the grass is getting taller. So I was like, yeah, it's kind of a gamble where they're gonna strut at, probably, you know, it could be here, here, here. So I'm like, I'm just gonna wing it. Kind of just, you know, got set up and like there was two birds on the farm right where I thought they'd be. Um, so I actually hunted those. I've actually hunted this, these two birds four different mornings. But the first two mornings, well, actually every morning, they just had hens with them. So like they were hind out in the timber. Um, the first two mornings they just weren't gobbling very good. And like, you know, I'm like, do I kind of get in there close to them? But if they're not gobbling and they're, you know, working their way my way, and I scare them, like, my guy'll get in here the next day. So the first the first two months is just kind of like a one of those things, just they were with hens and weren't gobbling, so it's just kind of a wash. So the third morning, um, so of course I was kind of feeling like, you know, when you think you're gonna get a bird that morning, you don't, you're just like, what? Like, what? Yeah, like I haven't got a bird in like six years, how it feels like. So then day number two, I didn't get one. I'm like, what? Like, and everybody's like, you get on your Snapchat, I'm like, well, they got a bird, they got a bird, and I'm sitting here like, I don't even know if I'm even in this game. Like, gosh, like, you know, all the things. So I was on the phone with, like I said before, like one of my buddies. So he's um he's done it for like 40 plus years, he's guided, so he's killed a lot of birds, and I was on the phone with him, and you know, I was all like sad, like I didn't, you know, on the third two mornings. He's like, Oh, poor you. I'm like, Yeah, that's what the birds are they're gone. He's like, Oh yeah, they're they're gone. So he always is picking on me. He's like, Listen, I got my bird, he's like, want me to go? I'm like, yeah, I'm like, because if we don't get it, if I don't get a bird with you, like then I know this bird's just not meant to die. And like, I'm like, then I know it's probably not me. It's not, you know, my terrible calling or whatever. I said to myself, yeah. So I go with him and we get set up. And this bird, like, there's so there's two birds, but one of them was just like fired up. So we get in the timber because I kind of was hunting like the the field. So we get in the timber, and this bird's like just I mean, he's just like hammering it in tree. So then he he flies down,

Week Two Turkey Plan And Execution

SPEAKER_00 52:05

and you know, it's that moment of silence. To me, that is like the most like adrenaline you can get because you're just sitting there, you're like, you're like waiting, and you're like, okay, he's either gonna be 30 yards, like he's flying down right to me, or he's gonna be 300 yards, so you just wait. Um this bird, he so he flew down, he's about like 80 yards, 70, 80 yards. So he just stands and he just gobbles and gobbles and doesn't really move. Well, then um, I heard this hen. And she just starts, it honestly was like I just was sitting there. I just was like, I'm eating this up because like she's just yapping and talking. He's just like fired up. Both of them were just fired up on the ground, and I'm like, this is just like, I mean, it was just right there, like just yeah, all the noises and all the things. I'm like, gosh, just like inject this in me. I want to, I want to hear this every day of my life. But so she works her way to me, and so then he so he gets getting a little closer, and it was one of those things that we were in the timber, and it was pretty hair, everything's pretty grown up. And I'm like, okay, if he comes to my right, I know I can shoot him, but I'm like, he circles over here to my left. Like, so then in my mind, I'm like, don't just don't even think that. Like, positive thoughts. He's gonna come here, I'm gonna put my gun up, like I'm ready. So he works his way, he was like 15, 20 yards. Like, I mean, you could hear him drumming and spitting and hears wings, could not see him at all. And I'm like, okay, like where you know, I'm like, I think so. He gobbled. I'm like, okay, he's over. I mean, we just we couldn't see him. So finally the hen gets, she's like, I mean, five steps from me, and then she starts clucking, and I'm like, shit. So she kind of gets a little bugged, and so she kind of starts going the other way. Well, he follows her, and then so we kind of make our move, getting a little closer to him, and then we we spot them. They're with they're two, two toms, two hens, and I'm like, well, we'll just wait here. Um, we call a little bit so they know where we're at. Um, waited there, and I'm like, they'll break away from the hens eventually. The hens are gonna go on, feed, they'll feel Mosey on. So sure enough, we kind of waited. The hens left them, and then we start calling at them, and they're probably like 70 yards, and I'm like, perfect. I like they're walking this little trail, and same thing. I'm like, this is what they're gonna do. I'm gonna put my gun up, shoot them, game over. Um, they get down this little low spot, and I lost them, and I'm like, okay, well, surely they'll pop back up. A few minutes later, my the guy I was done with my buddy, he was like, Oh no, don't move. And he's like, son of a bitch. I'm like, don't tell me. He's like, they're right here, other side of the tree. So like I couldn't move. And he's like, we got up when they got they left, and he's like, they were right here. I mean, it's like 10 yards.

SPEAKER_01 55:04

Oh my gosh.

SPEAKER_00 55:05

Uh he's like, I mean, he's like, I could have like literally shot them both. He's like, they're both standing here. And I'm like, I just kind of laughed. I was like, well, I mean, we had some close encounters with them, like that's you know, it was fun. You know, like I said, it was noisy the whole time, but I'm like, I was kind of laughing, still had fun. But the next day I'm like, listen, it's kill day. Like, I found these birds three mornings. Like, it's I've like no messing around, they're dead. So he's like, you need to get set up right here in the morning. He's like, This, you know, they're roosting here. He's like, I'm getting closer. Like, you're think you're you're not set up close enough to him. So um that that final morning I get up, set up. Um, they're probably like 120 yards, roosted. Um, I sat on the edge of the field because I'm like, I can't sit back in the timber again because it's just too thick. So um same kind of situation. They fly down. Well, they're just in the timber, and I mean they're just gobbling, fired up both of them, not moving. They sit there at 80 yards for I don't know how long, and I'm like, okay, do I do I make a move? Do I I'm like, I'm just gonna wait. Like, there's no reason to you know bug them. Like they're they're probably with their hands, and just gonna kind of see how this plays out. So, but they sat there and they just, I mean, they weren't moving. So finally got a little bit aggressive with my calling and then cut me off. And I'm like, all right, I'm in the game, like let's freaking go. So they so yeah, two toms, and then they they kind of split up, and one was kind of more like in front of me, one was a little bit to my left of me. Um, and then yeah, he gobbled, and I'm like, oh, he's like, I he should be stepping out any second. Like, I can't see him, I should see him. So um they both kind of walk out together, and then they had like three hints with him. So I kind of get up. Well, the sun's just like, I mean, of course, it's like beaming down on me at this point. And I'm like, um the whole time, like the sun's on me, they're probably gonna see me. And then I pull my scope up, and I'm like, Sun's riding my scope, and I'm like, I mean, whatever. So um, which I kind of was a little nervous because you know, when you have that many eyes on you, you kind of gotta like be fast, but also like move temporally. So, but it was awesome. And he gobbled right there in front of me, and yeah, I shot him at like 35 yards, but you know, like it's like in the moment, you know, like that was the most like I just just the feeling of like, man, I've hunted this bird like four different mornings, and honestly, though, like I was upset, but the whole time I was just like, I love being out here, and this is giving me like this bird gave me four opportunities to get out here, cover myself in ticks, whatever, and like to just learn and just like like just learning from each hunt, and yeah, yeah, it's just like yeah, I don't know. And when I shot that bird, I was like that. I just felt it's just like all the emotions, like it's you know how it is. It's just I mean, no matter how hard the hunt was or easy, it's just like you just feel like wow, I just did that, and like yeah, yeah, and it's like just a moment of like you have so much respect for the animal and just the way like and just just watching nature and how how it all works is just like it's just incredible. Like it's just like one of those things, like there's nothing on this earth that you can't like you can't you can't buy that, like there is no money that buys that right there.

SPEAKER_02 58:35

Oh, that emotion and just like it is so I can't I can't describe it. Like that the adrenaline that has that's going through your veins and knowing how everything has just come together is just like yeah, it's it's a it's a major accomplishment. Um yeah, like you think like yeah, graduating college, like that's a great accomplishment, but to me, like I'm sorry, but harvesting an animal is a bigger accomplishment to than graduating college or graduating boot camp or whatever it is to like that's my my take. Um that it it may be completely different for someone else, but like I don't know. I just find the fact that I can bring home food absolutely incredible. Even like when in the garden, like my wife has that she has like we have I can't even tell you how many strawberries we have right now, but like we have corn, onions, grapes, and we just have a plethora of food, and it's just like this is great. One, we're saving money, two, it's like there's nothing on the this I don't know, there's just nothing on these um on these plants that's gonna harm us. There's nothing that's wrong with these animals that's gonna harm us. Like what they go to farms or whatever, they probably eat foods with pesticides on it, but at the end of the day, like I'd rather eat that than uh store-bought cow.

SPEAKER_00 1:00:01

Yeah, oh no, I mean that a hundred percent. And there, yeah, there's just something about like you like and and honestly, like to me, like eating your own food and stuff, like that's just it's yeah, I mean it's and it's just like respecting the animal. Like, I didn't kill it just to so I could hold it up on Instagram, like I mean, I kill this because, like, you know, of course, all the things of like, you know, the reward and all that, but like when I'm sitting here eating my you know turkey pizza or grilled turkey or whatever, I make all kinds of things with it. I'm just like, like, that is like wholesome. Like that is just like you know, and same with the garden, like, you know, you're you you grew this and you didn't you didn't buy it, you loved it, you nurtured it, and it's just something something about it, and plus like the health benefits of it, like that's just oh, it's just it's just incredible.

SPEAKER_02 1:00:51

Yeah, it really just being able to go back to like what our ancestors did instead of it, like you said at the very beginning, we're creatures of comfort when we want to be able to have something very easily brought to us, or for us to go out and get it, and for us to just be like, no, I'm choosing the hard route, I'm choosing to be patient over it, that's what it's all about to me. Like I love that. It's just yeah, I think I could go on for days about it.

SPEAKER_00 1:01:22

I know something, yeah. It just says there's something about it, like it just yeah, just teaches you teaches you things that like you said, like money can't buy that.

SPEAKER_02 1:01:33

Like it's just yeah, and that's that's the other thing that a lot of people stress about is is money at the same day, at the same time. It's like we're so like we gotta realize there's there's other means out there to save money instead of stressing about it. It's like planting your own vegetables, planting your own fruits, going out and harvesting your own animals. Like to me, like we've shoot, we've saved so much on meat. Like, I keep looking over that freezer because I'm just like, man, like that's a lot of food that and money that is saved. And that's one thing I don't have to worry about. Like we're we're doing a good job at not eating all these processed foods, especially the ultra like high processed foods. But once again, yes, we are gonna be creatures in habit. We will get the cereals, we will get all this energy. Like it's just like sometimes you need that to survive. Um, and it's a a stomach filler for the children, and it's a stomach filler for us for because we need the energy. Um, but at the same time, it's like oh, it's just so rewarding being able to do all that stuff. Like, I love it. I love going out there and doing it on my own.

SPEAKER_00 1:02:42

Oh, yeah. Yeah, I know. Yeah, like yeah, I could, I feel so so passionate about that as well.

SPEAKER_01 1:02:49

Yeah, yeah.

SPEAKER_00 1:02:50

And like, you know, this the farm, I hunt like a few different farms. Uh, one is like my

Food Freedom From Hunt And Garden

SPEAKER_00 1:02:55

family farm that I've just known my whole life. So it's something about like, um, you know, my dad's the one who purchased it. And like this is kind of silly too, but it's just like, you know, he bought this like early, early on for us kids to come out here and enjoy it. And like, it's just like my dad, like, it's just he worked hard to get this farm for us, and then here I am, like just out here using it, killing animals on it, bringing it, and like I I cook for him, and I'm like, here, here's some of this turkey and stuff. So that also is like a little bit like kind of tugs at my heart.

SPEAKER_02 1:03:27

Like, it's just yeah, it's like dad, you you did this for us as a kid and is still providing for us, and we're able to do this for you now. Yeah, yeah, that's that's one thing that uh I feel like in this day and age, me growing up like it was tough. Um, like I I try to stay in touch with my dad as much as possible. It's very difficult. Um, he's older and the family dynamics are always different.

SPEAKER_00 1:03:56

But yeah, for sure.

SPEAKER_02 1:03:58

Man, I would I would give anything to have that type of relationship with my dad or my mom. But some people's not meant to be. But at the end of the day, like I hope when uh I am of his age that my children still come to me and be like, Dad, did you catch this? Like, yeah, I saw that buddy. Like, oh man, like and we sit there, we watch TV together, we eat food together, we still hunt together. Like, um, I hope it's like that. And I I pray that it's like that.

SPEAKER_00 1:04:29

And it's just like that's just tradition.

SPEAKER_02 1:04:31

Like, it's just yeah, yeah, tradition.

SPEAKER_00 1:04:33

And my dad still gets out there and hunts and stuff, and like um sometimes we'll go together. He doesn't generally turkey hunt, so that's kind of like that's kind of like my thing I do. And like, you know, like um yeah, like I said, which is it's just kind of like that, that farm to me is just like it's it's gonna be it probably in the family. Like, I hopefully like more willing, you know. Like, but it's just like, you know, honestly, probably to my dad, it's probably just like, oh, this is farm I bought back in the you know 70s. And to me, I'm like, no, like this is like home, you know.

SPEAKER_02 1:05:07

Yeah, it's interesting, yeah. Oh man, when I go back home to Georgia and I drive past where I used to live, there's I was like, I mean, I had like deer stands there, and now there's a Walmart, there is a UPS store, and you're just like, oh man, it's stupid. It's just like I can't stand big corporate buying up all this stuff. And it's just like uh every time we come, I get on the highway, I see these trees just getting tore up, and I'm just like, why? Why are you putting in a strip mall there? Like, why? Oh, it's just stop.

SPEAKER_00 1:05:41

Yeah, and isn't it funny how like you view land now? Like I view land as like so much more, like it's just it's valuable because I mean it's limited, but like you know, you just view and you're like, man, like you know, this is like great for turkeys, great for deer, great for this and that and squirrels and whatever. So it's just like you look at Leia just so differently, or you know, like man, I bet a turkey likes to, you know, shred around there and stuff. It's just, yeah. Um, after the farm across for me, when I when I was turkey hunting, this was another thing. I'm like, what in the world is happening? Like, I yeah, was it that? Yeah, it was an evening hunt. And I was like, I'm gonna slip in here kind of in the evening and see what happens. So I get on my gravel road, and right across the farm across, um, it's um, well, it's it's a it's called associated ground, so it's like a power plant owns it, so it's not really public, but kind of, but anyway, they were burning it. And I'm like, okay, so you're burning ground when things are patching and laying, and I'm like, these poor turkey eggs, like you just killed all my turkey eggs, anyways. I'm just like, uh, like that was another thing where I'm like, well, great. I that makes me kind of sad. And then I thought, well, I wonder if these birds are gonna go over there and peck around in the the field that's burned, and then they're gonna leave my farm. But, anyways, there's just stuff like that, like, you know, my god, I wouldn't be burning fields this time of year, probably, or yeah.

SPEAKER_02 1:07:18

Oh, yeah, for sure. There's especially the spring, like you said, there's so many birds that there's nests, there's all sorts of creatures that are just starting to come alive, and it's just like, what are you doing? It's not burning season right now.

SPEAKER_00 1:07:35

Isn't it kind of funny though? Like, we like we care about these animals. Like, I mean, we'll kill them, but like, I mean, I care about them. Like, I'm like, I want you to live, and you know.

SPEAKER_02 1:07:45

Well, that's the that's the thing that hunters get a bad rap for. They think that we are just out there being these killing machines, but in reality, we are the more caring and loving, nurturing for all of these animals out there. Like, we want them to thrive. And the other thing that drives me nuts is that like these people that cannot stand these hunters, like, look what's going on with with like different states where there's like like Ohio, it's like you only get like a certain amount of tags in certain areas, and like next thing you know, CHD and chronic waste disease is rampant. It's like, well, yeah, that's what happens when you have an overpopulated area of deer. Like, look what happened to the people back in the day, the black plague or some type of viruses goes around. It's like it's because there's too many in one area, you have to thin it. And it's just like I just wish people were educated enough to actually have a uh educational debate instead of just like oh you animals, you should die. Yeah, it's just like murderer, and it's just like yeah, okay, like don't you get to be able to do that?

SPEAKER_00 1:08:47

I'm gonna go to the store and yeah, yeah, I'm gonna buy this chicken that guessed didn't get killed.

SPEAKER_02 1:08:53

I don't know how it got here, but yeah,

Conservation Debate And Closing Prayer

SPEAKER_02 1:08:55

it's and that's just an ongoing conversation nonstop with every podcast and everybody around, but it's just like it blows my mind. It's it's like I'm not I didn't want to get political, but like the state of Virginia, like the the governor of Virginia banning AR platforms. It's like, why? Why are you banning the law-abiding citizen from being able to buy something? Not only that, you're going against their constitutional rights, yeah, but you're also telling criminals like, hey, we're there's other there's other citizens out there that are not gonna have these type of weapons anymore, the means to buy them. So go ahead, come on in and and run rampant with your AFK that you bought off of Joe Schmo on the black market, whatever.

SPEAKER_00 1:09:36

It's just like oh it's anyways. Yeah, that's a whole yeah, this world's gone completely crazy.

SPEAKER_02 1:09:44

Yeah, I don't, I don't get it.

SPEAKER_00 1:09:46

I don't get it either.

SPEAKER_02 1:09:49

It is whatever that's why we hunt, right? It gets us out there to to clean our minds and stuff like that.

SPEAKER_00 1:09:54

Yes, it is, yeah. Yeah, nothing like it.

SPEAKER_02 1:09:58

Well, first off, I want to say thank you so much for coming on to the show. Um, it means absolutely the world to me. And if you guys haven't checked out Alexa on Instagram, go follow her adventures. Uh, you'll be able to see in the description below her her uh tag or her handle. Go give her a follow, follow her adventures, keep up with what she does. She is just out there running and gunning, and I'll tell you what, she is a savage in the woods. Um, so once again, before we close out, I'm gonna give us a quick prayer. So, Lord, thank you so much once again for bringing Alexa and I together tonight and just talk about what's going on in the world, what's going on in our minds, and how to conquer uh all the doubt that's out there, Lord. And most of all, we appreciate the time that you allow us to go into the woods and just focus on you. And you are the one that has put us here to do your work, Lord. And thank you so very much for the opportunity to just witness and preach and just talk about you, God, and just spread your love. In your name I pray. Amen.

SPEAKER_00 1:11:04

Amen. Awesome. Well, thank you so much for having me on. It was great, great conversation.

SPEAKER_02 1:11:12

And yeah, and hopefully we'll do a part two of this.

SPEAKER_00 1:11:15

Yes, absolutely. But in the meanwhile, just yeah, keep grinding and chase your passions no matter what hobby it is, just get obsessed with it and just go for it.

SPEAKER_02 1:11:25

Absolutely. I love that. I can't I can't end that on a better note. So once again, Zach here from Echoes of the Hunt, Behind the Hunt with the uh Boondocks hunting family. So, once again, thank you guys for listening in.