David MacDonald’s story is one of survival, service, and strength. After surviving 47 broken bones from an IED blast in Afghanistan, he rebuilt his life, helped others with PTSD, and now manages Beretta Defense Technologies in Canada.
In this powerful conversation, we explore:
This episode goes far beyond firearms, diving into resilience, family, and what it means to live with meaning.
👉 Share this with someone who needs to hear it.
https://www.berettadefensetechnologies.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-macdonald-5693146a/
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
Merchandise - https://bit.ly/3ecyvk9
Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Silvercore Club giveaways & guest intro
01:54 – David MacDonald returns to the podcast
02:35 – Beretta Defense Technologies explained
04:23 – Beretta’s 500-year legacy & family ownership
06:46 – Beretta group brands: Benelli, Sako, Tikka, Steiner & more
09:15 – Behind the scenes at the Tikka & Sako factories
13:46 – Barrel life myths & factory standards explained
17:58 – Human error vs equipment failure in firearms
20:55 – Gun customization, training, and marketing
25:05 – The Canadian handgun freeze & firearms politics
31:00 – Buyback programs, registries & advocacy challenges
36:50 – The firearms community’s internal conflicts
40:50 – Educating the public about Canadian gun laws
47:00 – Navigating bureaucracy & firearms policy
55:00 – Fatherhood, change, and raising kids differently
01:01:13 – Postpartum depression, PTSD & men’s mental health
01:15:30 – Social media, loneliness & the need for men’s groups
01:28:00 – Suicide, warning signs & supporting friends
01:43:00 – Nature, hunting & outdoors as therapy
01:49:00 – Service, veterans, and reclaiming identity
01:52:07 – Closing thoughts & community challenge
Phillip Millar went from soldier to lawyer, and he’s never stopped fighting battles that matter. In this episode we get into the lessons he carried from military service into the courtroom, the cost of speaking out, and why telling the truth can make you a target.
This is a raw, unfiltered look at courage, conviction, and the price of standing your ground.
https://www.instagram.com/theroguelawyer
https://www.instagram.com/thirdeyeinsights.ca/
https://millarslaw.com/
https://thirdeyeinsights.ca/
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Silvercore Club - https://bit.ly/2RiREb4
Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
Merchandise - https://bit.ly/3ecyvk9
Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps
0:00 – Intro – Soldier to Lawyer
3:42 – Lessons from the Military
10:15 – Speaking Truth to Power
18:07 – The Price of Challenging the System
26:55 – Stories from the Courtroom
35:20 – Media, Spin, and Public Perception
44:12 – Standing Up When It Costs You
53:05 – Why Courage Matters More Than Comfort
1:03:10 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Zach Hanson was thriving in the world of AI and big tech...until the layoffs came. Two mortgages, a family to support, and no job in sight, he did what few with a white-collar background ever dare: he turned to trapping to survive. In this raw and timely conversation, Zach reveals how losing the comfort of corporate life reconnected him to skills that most of society has forgotten, skills that may be our only hedge in an uncertain future.
Travis and Zach explore what it means to be truly self-reliant in a world increasingly propped up by fragile systems. From welding school to wolf trapping, from modern brain rot to the mental health cost of career fragility, this is a conversation about grit, identity, and rediscovering the value of getting your hands dirty. Zach's new book, The Trade Gap, might just be the blueprint for how to stay human in an AI-powered world.
Order Here: https://geni.us/the-trade-gap
https://www.instagram.com/letmedielearning/
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps of Key Moments:
Ron Spomer has hunted wild terrain across six continents, tested elite gear, written thousands of articles, and shaped how generations think about the outdoors. But none of that explains the man behind the rifle.
In this rare and deeply personal conversation, Travis Bader sits down with the legendary outdoorsman to ask what no one else does: What’s he really been chasing?
Ron opens up about the quiet moments that changed him, the ego traps of the industry, and why the biggest threat to hunting today isn’t anti-gun activists, it’s our own disconnection from nature, each other, and ourselves.
They dive into legacy, ethics, spiritual frequency, and the kind of beauty that doesn’t need a trophy photo to matter. This episode will change how you see the wilderness, and your place in it.
What do elite performers, world-class cops, and Olympic athletes have in common? They train the mind as hard as the body. In this mind-expanding conversation, Travis Bader is joined by Jeff Johnsgaard, veteran police officer, Force Science Institute consultant, and founder of Training on Purpose by Design.
Jeff has taught use-of-force and high-stakes performance across four continents and multiple tier-one units. But in this conversation, he pulls back the curtain, not just on tactics, but on the mental software upgrades that determine who thrives in danger and who shuts down.
You’ll learn:
This one isn’t just for shooters or law enforcement. It’s for anyone who wants to perform better when it counts.
🔗 Learn more about Jeff’s work: https://www.onpurpose.training and follow him at https://www.instagram.com/jeff_johnsgaard/
🎣 Silvercore Club members: Don’t miss 40% off Skeena Spey Lodge (act quick limited space) and Tiffany’s bacon recipe!
👉 Not a member yet? Visit Silvercore.ca/club
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Silvercore Club - https://bit.ly/2RiREb4
Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
Merchandise - https://bit.ly/3ecyvk9
Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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00:00 – Silvercore Club updates & member perks
02:00 – Jeff Johnsgaard introduction: Who he trains and why
06:45 – “I’m a software guy”: Why mindset beats gear
10:15 – Threat vs. Challenge: The mindset that rewires your physiology
14:00 – The turning point: When Jeff realized words were weapons
20:30 – Mental rehearsal saves lives: The traffic stop study
26:00 – Michael Phelps, Wayne Gretzky, and world-class visualization
32:30 – The trap of post-performance rumination
34:45 – Failure is feedback, not a flaw
37:15 – Motivation: The forgotten force multiplier
41:30 – Why “slow trigger press” ruined Travis’s shooting
45:45 – Own your grip, own your trigger
48:45 – The most dangerous training scar in law enforcement
52:00 – How Jeff taught his daughter to drive like a tactical thinker
56:45 – Translating this to business and leadership
01:01:00 – The power of pre-experiencing critical moments
01:06:30 – Feed-forward vs. feedback: Escaping toxic rumination
01:12:00 – Using emotion, breathing, and body anchors to perform
01:17:00 – Visualizing for peak performance vs. anxiety
01:23:30 – “Prehabilitation”: Training like a combat veteran—before the fight
01:27:00 – One truth Jeff would pass on if he had to start over
01:33:00 – The Circle of Excellence: Anchoring performance states
01:36:00 – Wrap-up and resources
Canada bans suppressors. But in the U.S. and Europe, they’re considered essential safety tools. In this episode, Travis Bader sits down with Kyle Grob of KGM Technologies, a leading U.S. suppressor manufacturer, to dismantle the myths, politics, and science behind silencers.
Kyle shares how suppressors became wrongly vilified, how health and safety data is driving legal reform in the U.S., and what Canadians are missing due to outdated, emotion-driven laws. From engineering accuracy to military adoption, Travis and Kyle dive into real-world implications, regulatory nightmares, and what it would take to make change in Canada.
This is not about stealth. It’s about safety, hearing protection, and common sense.
🔗 Share this episode. Tag Silvercore. Let’s elevate the conversation.
https://kgm-tech.com/suppressors/
https://www.instagram.com/kgmsuppressors
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3erC59YOTKQV028ehe_BoA
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
Merchandise - https://bit.ly/3ecyvk9
Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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🕒 Key Timestamps
00:00 Intro
02:00 Suppressors in Canada and why they’re banned
05:45 U.S. history: suppressors & the NFA
09:00 Canada copied U.S. law without evidence
11:00 Health & safety driving U.S. suppressor reform
14:00 The Hearing Protection Act & federal deregulation
17:00 Travis's DIY suppressor story
21:00 Engineering precision: EDM & gas dynamics
28:00 POI shift and suppressor consistency
31:00 Travis’s baffle strike experience
35:00 Volume vs. baffle design for noise reduction
38:00 ATF regulation and KGM’s compliance
44:00 Canadian held in U.S. prison for barrel trace
47:00 Logic vs. emotion in firearms policy
59:00 Step-by-step approach to Canadian reform
01:06:00 Future of integrally suppressed rifles
Discover the elite insights of former JTF2 Operator, world-champion endurance athlete, and high-performance coach, Shaun Taylor. In this exclusive conversation, Shaun shares powerful lessons from decades of trial and error, guiding you on the path to superior sleep, effective stress management, optimal nutrition, hormonal optimization, and an unbreakable mindset. Whether you're a performance-driven athlete or simply seeking to live your best life, learn the strategies Shaun employs daily to maintain peak performance and personal fulfillment.
https://www.instagram.com/shauntaylors1/
https://www.instagram.com/the_collective_ig/
https://www.youtube.com/@the_collective_yt/streams
https://open.spotify.com/show/51fDAvBeENd0ANZhkw2pww
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
Merchandise - https://bit.ly/3ecyvk9
Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps:
What makes a product truly stand the test of time in a world of disposable everything?
In this episode, Travis Bader flies to Montreal to go behind the scenes with Nanuk, a Canadian company building ultra-durable cases trusted by first responders, hunters, military, and outdoor professionals around the world. But this isn’t just a story about rugged gear. It’s about values, vision, and how leadership and culture shape what we build and how we live.
Nanuk’s VP of Marketing, Charles Benoit, joins Travis to explore the evolution of gear that lasts a lifetime, the balance between work and family, and the deeply human moments that remind us what really matters. From gear innovations and recycled materials to a canoe rescue that saved a life, this conversation covers it all.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s behind the gear you trust or how to build something meaningful in your own life, this episode delivers.
https://www.instagram.com/nanukcases
https://www.youtube.com/@NANUKGearProtection
To join the Silvercore Club, check out https://www.silvercore.ca/club
Malcolm Wood’s Relentless Quest for Life
In this captivating episode of the Silvercore Podcast, Travis Bader sits down with Malcolm Wood, a man who has built a life that straddles the worlds of high-stakes adventure and global impact. From producing award-winning environmental documentaries praised by David Attenborough to launching successful restaurants and high-end fishing lodges.
Malcolm’s story is one of passion, resilience, and relentless drive. He recounts paragliding off Himalayan peaks, navigating near-fatal accidents, and building businesses from napkin sketches by campfires. Malcolm opens up about facing adversity, overcoming the mental challenges of extreme sports, and using setbacks as fuel for future success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a man who refuses to back down.
To follow Malcolm: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmgwood/
Learn more and connect: https://www.malcolmgwood.com/
To watch his latest film: https://m.olyn.com/7dec924269c4c5a7a89c7a90746af0eeb1118e67ccb0b87ad3d019295b2fc1ed
To learn more about sharing content directly with your audience, monetizing on your terms, and owning your data, visit the game-changing platform: www.olyn.com
Skeena Spey Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/skeenaspeyfishing/
Skeena Spey Lodge - https://www.skeenaflyfishing.com/
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction: Mentorship Through the Silvercore Club
01:00 – Why Malcolm Wood Was Travis Bader’s Inspiration to Start Paragliding
03:00 – Paragliding in the Himalayas: Aerial Sports and Mental Chess
04:00 – How Steelhead Fishing and Business Go Hand in Hand
07:00 – The Napkin Business Plan: Building a Lodge on a Whim
08:00 – Planning and Strategy: Malcolm’s First Rule of Business
10:00 – Adversity and Resilience: Losing Everything in the 2007 Recession
13:00 – Dyslexia and the Power of Turning Weaknesses into Strengths
15:00 – The Victim Mindset vs. Self-Motivation: Lessons from Entrepreneurship
17:00 – Homeschooling, Education, and the Value of Failure
19:00 – Extreme Sports as Meditation: The Mental Highs and Lows
21:00 – UN Mountain Hero of the Year: Malcolm’s Work on Climate Documentaries
24:00 – The Last Glaciers: Capturing Climate Change Through Extreme Sports
27:00 – Near-Death Experiences: Crashes, Injuries, and PTSD
32:00 – Teaching NIMS Purja to Paraglide: Breaking Records in the Himalayas
34:00 – Manaslu Massacre: Walking Away from Dangerous Expeditions
36:00 – The Rule of Threes: Assessing Risk in Business and Extreme Sports
38:00 – Business Lessons Learned from Paragliding and Climbing
40:00 – Malcolm’s Daily Routine: Time Management and Family Priorities
45:00 – Skeena Spay Lodge: More Than Just a Fishing Business
50:00 – Malcolm Would: A T-Shirt Slogan Born from Boldness
52:00 – The Last Glaciers: A Must-Watch Film for Outdoor Enthusiasts
55:00 – What Legacy Does Malcolm Want to Leave Behind?
After the dust settles from Canada’s federal election, what does it all mean for gun owners? In this episode of the Silvercore Podcast, I sit down with Daniel Fritter from Calibre Magazine to talk about why it’s not all doom and gloom.
We dig into the missed opportunities, surprising shifts, and overlooked reasons for optimism. From navigating political tactics to finding ways to make your voice heard, we break down actionable steps that every firearms owner can take right now to stay in the fight and keep pushing forward.
Plus, for Silvercore Club members, there's a private episode packed with even more practical advice on how to turn frustration into real, impactful action. If you’re frustrated or feeling stuck, this episode is packed with insights to help you turn that frustration into positive action.
https://www.youtube.com/@calibremag
https://www.instagram.com/calibremagazine/
https://www.facebook.com/calibremagazine
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Online Training - https://bit.ly/3nJKx7U
Other Training & Services - https://bit.ly/3vw6kSU
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps:
Chris Hunt forged Code of the West from the ashes of loss, burnout, and a mind that wouldn’t quit. In this unvarnished talk, he digs into suicide’s scars, sleepless nights, and a brain scan that flipped the script—plus a dark laugh or two. It’s not motivation, it’s discipline that pulls you through, he says. From rodeo plans to gear drops, he’s building a lifeline for the heavy-hearted. This hits deep, but if you’re lost, it might just point you home.
https://www.youtube.com/@the_codeofthewest
https://www.instagram.com/thecodeofthewest
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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00:00:13,170 - Intro & Silvercore Club - Welcome to the Podcast
00:00:40,860 - Meet Chris Hunt - Introducing Chris Hunt
00:01:55,275 - Impact of Code of the West - Changing Lives
00:02:23,745 - Messages from Followers - Voices of Resilience
00:04:59,355 - Happiness as Process - The Pursuit of Happiness
00:06:16,695 - Chris’s Struggles & Origins - From Loss to Purpose
00:08:02,804 - Friends’ Deaths Story - Facing Mortality
00:10:07,500 - Aftermath of Loss - Cascading Grief
00:11:13,140 - Reframing Life & Death - Living and Dying Well
00:12:17,325 - Suicide’s Ripple Effect - Pain Transferred
00:13:09,045 - Building Code of the West - Crafting a Philosophy
00:14:24,345 - Brain Scan Revelation - Understanding the Mind
00:16:46,035 - Movement Equals Life - Forward Momentum
00:17:07,425 - Sleep Strategies - Mastering Sleep
00:19:55,095 - Managing Data Overload - Taming the Brain
00:21:50,145 - Early Career Moves - Chasing Ambiguity
01:16:45,360 - Generational Reflections - Bridging Worlds
01:19:20,265 - AI and Modern Change - A New Era
01:20:41,174 - Thoughts on Legacy - Beyond Statues
01:22:03,690 - Death as Exploration - Embracing the Inevitable
01:22:35,415 - Future of Code of the West - What’s Next for Code of the West
01:24:06,960 - Documenting Stories - Show, Don’t Tell
01:25:16,245 - Rodeo Plans - Code of the West in Action
01:27:01,635 - Huckberry Collaboration - Gear with Purpose
01:30:12,480 - Zane Gray Influence - Roots of the West
01:33:31,170 - Willingness to Fail - Authentic Grit
01:34:53,310 - Wrapping Up - Leaving a Legacy
01:35:29,219 - Closing & Thanks - A Lighter Farewell
What do you get when you mix raw adventure, music tours in war zones, bowhunting in Africa, and building one of the most respected survival gear companies in North America? You get Christian Schauf.
In this episode, we go far beyond the typical founder story. From recording with Prince to launching survival kits that save lives, Christian opens up about what drives him: faith, fitness, hunting, entrepreneurship—and doing something meaningful with this short time we’re given. We talk about moose hunting in BC, building gear that’s actually reliable when things go sideways, learning from failure, and the mindset needed to push forward when most people quit.
Whether you’re into the outdoors, business, or just trying to live a more intentional life, this one’s for you.
https://unchartedsupplyco.com/ https://www.instagram.com/unchartedsupplyco https://www.instagram.com/christianschauf
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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00:00 – Podcast intro, Silvercore Club mention, and Christian’s bio
01:15 – How Christian came onto Travis’s radar: Half Face Blades and pack rafts
03:00 – Origin of the pack raft: military request, product design challenges
04:30 – Material development, Outdoor Retailer debut, slow early adoption
05:00 – Rafts used for hauling moose in Yukon and Alaska
07:00 – Living near elk and moose in Idaho/Park City, gratitude for the outdoors
08:00 – Reflection on time, legacy, and trying to do something meaningful
09:00 – Balancing ambition and faith; feeling overwhelmed; personal introspection
09:30 – Touring Iraq with a band, 39 trips for troop entertainment
12:26 – Using Prince’s sound guy, building portable sound systems for Blackhawks
14:43 – Making the shows about the troops, not the band
17:00 – Transitioning from touring to building new ventures
20:00 – Founding Crispin Cider, selling to MillerCoors
21:00 – Working with GoPro, Harley, and other brands post-touring
22:00 – Moving to SoCal, culture shock, and the roots of Uncharted
23:00 – Hard lessons in entrepreneurship, trusting the wrong people
24:30 – Importance of endurance, triage mindset, and grinding through obstacles
25:30 – Being taken advantage of, learning to manage yourself
26:45 – Facing new tariff issues, adapting with mindset
27:45 – You have to get comfortable with the pressure—it’s not going away
29:00 – Believing in your idea when others don’t
30:00 – Responding to doubters and building resilience
31:10 – Quality vs. garbage survival kits, building trust in the Uncharted brand
32:35 – Real-life use cases: jump starters, storm kits, hurricane response
36:00 – Designing gear that prevents emergencies before they escalate
37:00 – Color-coded, instructional layout of kits to reduce panic and improve usability
39:00 – Making gear intuitive even for non-experts
40:00 – No formal training offered yet, but strong content and future plans
41:00 – Most popular products: jump starters, first aid kits, survival kits
43:00 – Essentials Christian always carries, layering gear in “concentric circles”
44:30 – Saving his dog’s life with the Triage Kit
45:00 – Future of the company: growth, wholesale expansion, tariffs disrupting progress
47:00 – Transparent supply chain talk, China, FDA rules, and pricing realities
48:30 – Importance of American manufacturing and balancing affordability
49:30 – Drawing business parallels to survival mindset
50:00 – Upcoming hunts in South Africa (for school meat programs) and New Zealand
52:00 – Christensen Arms rifle use in mountainous terrain
54:00 – Travis’s Molokai access deer story and equipment mismatch
56:00 – Reaffirming the value of knowing your gear deeply
57:00 – Touching on faith, legacy, and leading by example
58:00 – Christian’s approach to faith: live it, don’t preach it
He rode freight trains across America, lived with nomadic reindeer herders in Siberia, and became a household name after winning Alone in the Arctic. But Jordan Jonas is more than a survivalist—he's a philosopher forged by hardship.
In this episode, Travis Bader sits down with Jordan for a raw and real conversation on solitude, family, faith, failure, and the uncomfortable truths we face when stripped of distraction.
They explore the mental battles of being truly alone, the lessons from Siberian trappers and prison-hardened mentors, and the generational strength passed down through adversity.
Whether you're a hunter, a parent, a spiritual seeker, or someone grappling with modern life's noise—this episode will stay with you.
🔥 Topics include:
🎯 Perfect for fans of Man’s Search for Meaning, Alone, and anyone seeking deeper connection with nature and self.
https://www.instagram.com/hobojordo/
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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⏱️ Timestamp Chapters – Silvercore Podcast 156: Jordan Jonas
00:00 – Intro: The Outdoors Reveals Who You Pretend to Be
00:59 – Why Jordan Jonas stood out: solitude, humility, and raw truth
02:17 – Riding with nomadic reindeer herders and hunting wolverine with a hatchet
03:22 – Hollywood connections, Megan Hine, and FOX’s ‘Extracted’
05:16 – Technology, connection, and craving the wilderness
07:25 – Starlink fears, forced disconnection, and focus
09:00 – ADHD, distraction, and being an info concierge
09:50 – Origin of “Hobo Jordo”: Riding freight trains across America
12:42 – Nearly drowning on a train in a puddle during a storm
14:00 – Police chases, jail time, and the underground hobo network
19:33 – Genius-level hobo maps and community secrets
19:53 – How a spontaneous prayer led Jordan to Siberia
22:00 – Life in a Siberian village: cow milking, hay scything, and survival
24:17 – Learning to trap solo in the Siberian wilderness
26:22 – Falling through ice, hard lessons, and resilience
27:40 – Mental isolation: when unresolved thoughts fester
28:50 – The power of writing things down in solitude
30:52 – Advice for someone struggling with being alone
31:49 – Where Jordan’s calm mindset really comes from
33:31 – Three pillars of resilience: Reading, heritage, and personal experience
35:49 – Jordan’s dad: strength through suffering, humility through hardship
39:18 – Relationships as anchors for mental strength
42:03 – Embracing discomfort and growing through failure
43:56 – The moose miss: turning failure into fuel
45:26 – Encouragement for those battling inner demons
46:22 – Developing emotional strength through adversity
47:56 – Third-party perspective: How future you will view your actions
50:44 – What 10 items Jordan brought on Alone and what he’d change
53:22 – Gill nets, axes, and the tools of true survival
53:41 – Nikki’s experience getting pulled at day 52
55:10 – Why Jordan worried they’d pull him for being “too skinny”
56:16 – Post-Alone blessings: family time and purposeful living
58:06 – Joy, gratitude, and the awareness that nothing is guaranteed
Heath Jackson was moments away from taking his own life. In this powerful conversation, he bravely shares his gripping journey through intense trauma, depression, and near-fatal decisions, ultimately rediscovering purpose and rebuilding his life. Heath’s story is raw, honest, and profoundly inspiring—a must-listen for anyone facing tough times or seeking strength through adversity.
*(Listener discretion is advised as this episode discusses suicide and self-harm.)
Learn more about Heath Jackson:
https://www.instagram.com/mbada_
https://www.truehaven.ca
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal ideation, help is available.
🇨🇦 Canada: Talk Suicide Canada: www.talksuicide.ca | 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) Crisis Services Canada: www.crisisservicescanada.ca
🇺🇸 USA: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org | Call or text 988 (24/7) Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7) | www.crisistextline.org
🇬🇧 UK: Samaritans: www.samaritans.org | 116 123 (Free 24/7) Mind UK: www.mind.org.uk
Photo Credit: https://www.shadowsandlightproject.com
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🕒 Timestamps of Key Moments: 0:01:47 – Introduction to Heath’s unique background and early life in Zimbabwe.Recorded live at the Wild Sheep Society of BC's Western Hunting Expo, this episode brings together industry leaders and passionate outdoorsmen to discuss the evolution of hunting, firearms policy, and conservation efforts. Join Travis Bader, Sean Zubor, and Joe Eppele as they explore the deeper meaning of hunting beyond the harvest, the importance of unified advocacy, and the shifting societal views on outdoor traditions. From grizzly bear conservation to firearms legislation and the camaraderie of the hunting community, this conversation pulls no punches. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the outdoors, this episode will change the way you think about the future of our wild spaces.
🔹 Inside This Episode:
✅ The real impact of the Wild Sheep Society on conservation
✅ Why hunting is seeing a resurgence (and why that matters)
✅ The firearms debate – is it really about public safety?
✅ Grizzly bear populations, conservation, and human-wildlife conflict
✅ How hunting unites people from all walks of life
✅ Why protecting outdoor traditions requires a different approach
📢 Silvercore Club Members: Get 25% off Beretta Group clothing and 10% off everything else on Stoeger Canada! Join the Silvercore Club today: [link]
https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/ https://www.instagram.com/seanzubor/ https://www.instagram.com/joe_eppele/
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Episode Highlights & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction: Wild Sheep Society Expo & Beretta Group Partnership
[00:02:10] - How hunting brings people together from different backgrounds
[00:04:04] - What the Wild Sheep Society really does for conservation
[00:09:57] - Why is hunting becoming “cool” again?
[00:13:17] - Hunting as the ultimate equalizer – shared struggles, shared rewards
[00:17:41] - The mental clarity that comes from hunting & being outdoors
[00:30:07] - The problem with banning grizzly bear hunting
[00:35:59] - Do ravens lead hunters to success? A theory on birds & gut piles
[00:42:55] - The "death by a thousand cuts" approach to firearms bans
[00:50:38] - Why logical arguments won’t work against emotional policy-making
For over 1,775 episodes, Stéphane Monette has spoken his mind. An extremely positive, and passionate lifelong hunter, entrepreneur, and CEO of Fermé Monette, he built a business around the outdoors—only to find himself on a government watchlist for speaking out.
This episode dives into the hard truths behind social media censorship, the battle over hunting rights, and the real impact of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) on the industry.
🔥 What’s inside this episode:
This isn’t just another hunting story—it’s a wake-up call for anyone who values personal freedom.
🔔 Subscribe now & hit the bell so you don’t miss out.
This episode isn’t just about hunting—it’s about who controls the narrative.
📢 What do you think? Are hunters and firearm owners being silenced? Drop a comment below.
https://www.instagram.com/stephmonetteonjase/
https://www.facebook.com/smonette
Connect with the brands talked about in this episode (Sako, Beretta, Norma, Tikka...);
https://www.stoegercanada.ca
https://www.instagram.com/sako_international/
https://www.instagram.com/tikka_international/
https://www.instagram.com/normaammo/ https://www.instagram.com/berettaofficial
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Show Notes:[00:00] Introduction
[02:00] Meeting at SHOT Show
[06:00] The Business of Hunting Products
[12:00] Anticosti Island & Early Days as a Hunting Guide
[18:00] Cooking, Hunting & The Wild Food Movement
[24:00] The Social Media Battle & Censorship of Hunting Content
[32:00] Government Monitoring & The Hunting Industry
[40:00] The Role of Firearms in Outdoor Life
[50:00] The Power of Consistency in Media & Business
[56:00] Final Thoughts & Advice
Jesse Griffiths isn’t just a chef—he’s a hunter, butcher, and James Beard award-winning author who’s on a mission to reconnect people with their food. From tracking feral hogs to teaching butchery and conservation, Jesse brings a no-nonsense approach to ethical hunting and cooking.
In this episode, we dive into the truth about wild hogs, why Jesse is committed to hunting locally, the surprising impact of invasive species, and the deeper connection between hunting, conservation, and food. We also swap stories about overcoming school struggles, the MeatEater crew, and the primal draw of hunting, its process and our connection to nature.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman, a passionate foodie, or someone who just wants to understand where their meat comes from, this episode will challenge the way you think about food, conservation, and the hunting lifestyle.
https://www.thewildbooks.com/ https://www.daidue.com/ https://www.newschooloftraditionalcookery.com/home https://www.instagram.com/sac.a.lait/______
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Blog Page - https://bit.ly/3nEHs8W
Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps:📌 [00:00:00] Intro – Meet Jesse Griffiths: Chef, Hunter & Wild Food Advocate
📌 [00:00:35] How a Signed Copy of The Hog Book Brought This Episode Together
📌 [00:01:52] Why Travis’ First Hog Hunt Was a Bust (& Why He’s Going Back)
📌 [00:02:16] Jesse’s Mission: Teaching People to Hunt, Butcher & Cook
📌 [00:04:19] The "Why" Behind Jesse’s Passion for Hunting & Cooking
📌 [00:07:49] ADHD, Struggles in School & How Unconventional Thinkers Thrive
📌 [00:15:13] The Surprising Truth About Black Bear Hunting & Ethics
📌 [00:18:37] Invasive Species: Why Axis Deer & Feral Hogs Are a Growing Threat
📌 [00:26:35] Will Wild Hogs Ever Take Over British Columbia?
📌 [00:29:10] The Impossible Battle: Why Hogs Can’t Be Eradicated
📌 [00:34:02] Gloves or No Gloves? The Real Risks of Handling Wild Game
📌 [00:42:46] Jesse’s Take on MeatEater, Giannis & Steve Rinella’s Food Obsession
📌 [00:50:52] How COVID Changed the Way People Think About Hunting & Food
📌 [00:56:06] What Happens When People Stop Supporting Local Farmers?
📌 [00:57:53] Is the Future of Food Moving Toward Sustainability or Big Business?
📌 [01:02:18] The Best Wild Game Jesse Has Ever Cooked (And How You Can Do It Too)
📌 [01:07:44] Final Thoughts: How to Start Your Own Journey Into Wild Food
Join me as I sit down with one of the world’s top survival experts, Megan Hine, for a raw and thought-provoking conversation. Megan is an expedition leader, the author of Mind of a Survivor, and a key figure behind some of the most extreme survival TV shows in the world. In this episode, we explore survival psychology, the power of human connection, and how the outdoors can heal and transform.
Megan opens up about her personal experiences with burnout, the lessons she’s learned from decades in high-risk environments, and the mental toughness it takes to thrive when the odds are against you. We also discuss the role of nature in balancing the chaos of modern life and how embracing discomfort can help us grow.
This is more than just a podcast—it’s a deep dive into what makes us resilient as humans. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a psychology buff, or just someone looking to be inspired, this conversation will leave you with new perspectives and actionable insights.
🔗 Connect with Megan Hine
📚 Megans Website: https://meganhine.com/
🌍 Follow Megan: https://www.instagram.com/megan_hine/
🔗 Connect with Silvercore
🎙 Subscribe for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/c/SilvercoreCa?sub_confirmation=1
🌲 Learn more about Silvercore: https://www.silvercore.ca/
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps
0:00 - Intro: Megan Hine, Survival Expert & Author
2:10 - Behind the Scenes: Working on "Extracted" and Survival TV Shows
8:30 - Childhood Adventures: Megan’s Early Love for the Outdoors
14:50 - The Psychology of Survival: Why We Seek Nature
18:20 - Social Media vs. Real Connection: The Nature Disconnect
21:05 - Megan’s Battle with Burnout and the Road to Recovery
27:30 - ADD, ADHD, and Finding Strength in Challenges
33:45 - Flow State in Extreme Environments: Megan’s Climbing Philosophy
39:15 - Spearfishing and Connecting with Nature in North Wales
44:00 - The Meaning of Hunting and Food Connection
49:25 - Human Connection: The Key to Happiness and Resilience
52:10 - Lessons from Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
57:00 - Mental Toughness: Managing Mindset in Extreme Situations
1:02:00 - What Keeps Megan Centered in High-Stress Environments
1:05:40 - Final Thoughts: How Resilience and Connection Transform Lives
This raw and unfiltered episode of the Silvercore Podcast features a deeply personal conversation with Jody Mitic, a decorated Canadian Armed Forces sniper, author, and veterans' advocate. Jody opens up about his struggles with addiction, his battles with flawed veterans' policies, and the challenges of finding purpose after life-altering injuries.
This episode is unlike any other—a mix of powerful insights, hard truths, and moments of vulnerability. While Jody's resilience shines through, the conversation also highlights the ongoing struggles he faces. This is a candid look at how personal and professional challenges intersect, and a reminder of the complexities of healing and advocacy.
Topics Discussed:
https://www.instagram.com/jodymitic
https://www.legion.ca/advocating-for-veterans/advocating-for-change/veterans-wellbeing-act
https://ncva-cnaac.ca/en/ncva-update/ncvas-action-plan-for-veterans-legislative-reform-2024-25
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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TimestampsHunting wild hogs in the heart of Texas Hill Country isn’t just about the chase, it’s about understanding the land, the culture, and the stories behind the hunt. In this episode, I join my friend Trevor Gibbs for a one-of-a-kind hunting adventure. We talk about the challenges of invasive hog populations, the cultural differences between Canadian and Texan hunting traditions, and the unique taste of wild game.
This isn’t your typical hunt. From using feeders and game cameras to conversations about firearms laws and the sheer scale of the hog problem in Texas, this episode offers a deep dive into a world many don’t get to see. We even explore Trevor’s plans to turn wild hog meat into his next big product for ManBar!
So, grab a seat in the blind with us, and let’s talk hogs, hunting, and the connection to the wild. What’s your most memorable hunting experience? Share it in the comments below!
https://www.instagram.com/trymanbar/
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Host Instagram - @Bader.Trav https://www.instagram.com/bader.trav
Silvercore Instagram - @SilvercoreOutdoors https://www.instagram.com/silvercoreoutdoors
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Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to the Hunt: Travis kicks off 2025 with reflections on an incredible year and introduces today’s wild adventure.
01:41 – In the Blind: Travis and Trevor paint a vivid picture of the hunting setup in Texas Hill Country.
02:55 – Texas vs. BC: Comparing hunting traditions and techniques, from feeders to game cameras.
07:22 – The Hog Problem: Trevor explains the invasive hog issue and the staggering damage they cause.
12:34 – Tasting the Wild: What wild hogs taste like and how environment affects flavor.
16:35 – Expectations vs. Reality: Travis shares his visions of hunting hogs with helicopters and ARs.
18:14 – Cultural Contrast: Travis reflects on the differences in firearm attitudes between Texas and Canada.
29:37 – Firearms and Freedom: A deep dive into the politics of guns, safety, and personal responsibility.
37:20 – Hunting as a Connection: Trevor shares the emotional experience of new hunters processing their first game.
49:50 – Future of ManBar: Trevor discusses big plans for his meat snack brand and collaborations with craftsmen.
54:00 – A Final Thought: Get outside, do what you love, and share it with people you care about.