In this heartfelt season finale of The Storied Outdoors, Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on the remarkable guests and memorable essays that made Season Ten so special. From deep conversations to inspiring stories, they revisit the moments that left a lasting impact—and share what they’ve learned along the way.
In classic Storied Outdoors fashion, this episode also takes a few scenic detours. Bryan shares about a recent family trip to Jekyll Island, GA, and a peaceful birding outing with friend Damian Bankhead. The two co-hosts also catch up on life, laughter, and what’s on the horizon for the podcast.
Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about the future of The Storied Outdoors, and a quick reminder—only 7 more hat preorders needed to bring the next batch to life!
This episode is both a reflective snapshot of a full season and a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the friendship that fuels the storytelling.
Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving episode, co-host Bryan Gill shares a reflective and emotional story of guiding his teenage son through his first deer hunt. A Father’s Charge is more than just an account of a hunting trip—it's a meditation on legacy, manhood, reverence for life, and the sacred responsibility of fathers to lead with both courage and tenderness.
Set in the quiet, golden light of a frosty Alabama morning, Bryan recounts the moments of anticipation, a whispered prayer, and the irreversible stillness that follows a successful shot. With vivid storytelling and honest emotion, this episode explores the tension and beauty of passing on a tradition that shapes character and invites young men into a deeper awareness of their place in creation.
In This Episode:
The emotional weight of a first hunt
The sacred nature of taking life
How the outdoors can be a space for spiritual formation
What it means to be a father raising a son
Reflections on legacy, reverence, and responsibility
Whether you're a hunter, a parent, or simply someone drawn to stories that matter, this episode offers something meaningful to hold on to.
🔗 Links & Resources:
Website: thestoriedoutdoors.com
Watch on YouTube: The Storied Outdoors Channel
Follow us on Instagram: @thestoriedoutdoors
Legacy, Leadership & the Moose Story – A Conversation with Dr. Jay Wolf
Episode Description:Dr. Jay Wolf served as Pastor of First Baptist Montgomery for nearly 30 years and now continues his Kingdom work as Pastor Emeritus. In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Dr. Wolf to talk about life, legacy, leadership, and a few unforgettable stories—like how the amazing story of his daughter-in-law's healing makes his epic Moose Hunt look like a mouse.
Raised as the son of a cowboy in Texas, Dr. Wolf shares how his roots shaped his faith and calling. From his first deer to his philosophy of family discipleship—“If you hunt with your son, you won’t have to hunt for your sons”—Jay emphasizes the deep importance of relationships and outdoor moments that form lasting bonds.
We also explore his global mission work, his passion for Christ-centered service, and what’s next as he continues supporting ministries like Hope Heals, led by his son and daughter-in-law.
This is a rich, meaningful, and often hilarious conversation with a man who embodies what it means to Fix Your Eyes on Jesus.
🎙️ Topics Covered:
Growing up cowboy-style in Texas
The first deer hunting story
An Epic Moose Story
Family, discipleship, and outdoor ministry
His current mission work and future adventures
🔑 Quote of the Episode:“Relationship is the meat and marrow of life.”
In this soul-stirring episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Jim Barger Jr.—a nationally recognized trial lawyer, acclaimed author, environmental advocate, and College Professor. But his résumé only scratches the surface of a man whose life is deeply rooted in story, place, and purpose.
From his childhood on the coastal shores of St. Simons Island, Georgia, to the literary halls of Ole Miss, Jim’s journey weaves through courtroom battles, conservation efforts, and deeply personal revelations. You may know him from his essays in The Bitter Southerner or as co-author of Jimmy Carter: Rivers & Dreams, a beautiful exploration of Carter’s lesser-known love for fly fishing.
But in this episode, Jim opens up about the deeper currents shaping his life—faith, family, and finding peace in a complicated world.
🎣 What shaped his love for the outdoors?🌿 Why did he move his family back to the Georgia coast—and what does he hope to pass on to his sons?📖 What sparked the creation of “Rivers and Dreams,” and how did that journey transform him?🙏 What does it mean to live with “two great loves”—a love for Jesus, and for the person standing right in front of you?
Jim doesn’t just talk about the outdoors—he lives out a net-positive lifestyle, using his platform to fight for environmental preservation and cultivate generational legacy.
This episode is a quiet invitation to rethink what matters most. And somewhere between the salt marsh and the written word, you'll discover a story about returning—both to a physical place and to a deeper sense of calling.
Don’t miss this episode—whether you’re a reader, a father, a fisherman, or someone just searching for deeper clarity in your own story, there’s something here for you.
Hit play, and let the tide of Jim Barger Jr.’s story carry you to places you didn’t expect to go.
Purchase “Jimmy Carter: Rivers and Dreams” HERE, use promo Code StoriedOutdoors at checkout to save some money.
“The deer hunter habitually watches the next bend; the duck hunter watches the skyline; the bird hunter watches the dog; the non-hunter does not watch.”— Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac, 1949
A Feather For My Hat – Pheasant Hunting, Heritage, and Outdoor Legacy
In this episode of *The Storied Outdoors*, we take you deep into the heart of South Dakota’s upland fields for an unforgettable pheasant hunting experience. More than just a sport, this journey is about heritage, camaraderie, and the enduring traditions passed down through generations.
From childhood memories of flipping through hunting magazines in a barbershop to the thrill of stepping into the golden switchgrass fields with shotgun in hand, Jacob shares a reflective and nostalgic story of his long-awaited pheasant hunt. Alongside seasoned sportsmen and skilled bird dogs, he discovers the profound connection between hunting, storytelling, and legacy.
**Key Topics Covered:**
✅ The thrill and tradition of pheasant hunting in South Dakota
✅ How hunting fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and conservation
✅ The history and beauty of the ring-necked pheasant in North America
✅ The importance of sportsmanship, ethics, and respect for the land
✅ The bond between hunters and their dogs in the pursuit of upland game
✅ Reflections on outdoor heritage, family traditions, and passing down a legacy
**Why Listen?**
Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who appreciates storytelling rooted in adventure, this episode will resonate with you. We explore not just the sport, but the values and lessons it instills—honoring the past while looking forward to future generations of hunters and conservationists.
**Share Your Story!**
Have you ever had a hunting experience that connected you to your heritage? We’d love to hear about it! Tag us on Instagram @TheStoriedOutdoors and share your story with our growing community of outdoor storytellers.
#PheasantHunting #UplandHunting #HuntingTraditions #TheStoriedOutdoors #OutdoorHeritage #HuntingPodcast #Conservation #SouthDakotaHunting
In this episode, we’re joined by Damion Bankhead, a wildlife and nature portrait photographer based in Birmingham, AL, whose work goes beyond simply capturing images—it’s about revealing the beauty both around us and within us. Damion’s journey into photography started young, seeing the world in pictures before he even had a camera in hand. His passion took a defining turn on a simple hike when he captured a Carolina wren in full song—a moment that connected him to the birding community and set him on the path to having his work published in Amateur Photographer and Alabama the Beautiful.
With a background spanning fitness, the Army, and law enforcement, Damion has always been drawn to storytelling, and through his lens, he aims to help people see themselves and the world with fresh eyes. Today, we’ll dive into his adventures, his approach to natural portraiture, and the moments that have shaped his creative journey.
We sit down with wildlife and nature photographer Damion to explore the journey that led him behind the lens. From an early love of photography and art to his time as a musician and personal trainer and even his service in the military and law enforcement, Damion’s path has been anything but ordinary.
We discuss how his experiences have shaped his ability to see beauty in the world, even after witnessing its darkest moments. He shares the deeper meaning behind his philosophy, “It’s all God’s art, and I just capture it,” and how faith plays a role in his creative process. And, since we like to think of this podcast as a digital campfire, we ask Damion to share one of his go-to stories—one that embodies his adventurous spirit and passion for the outdoors.
Finally, we look ahead to what’s next for Damion as he continues his journey of capturing the natural world through his lens. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!
Visit Damion’s Website HERE
Follow Damion on Instagram HERE
Support Damion’s Work by visiting his store HERE
The Storied Outdoors with Aaron Scheer
In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Aaron Scheer, Executive Director of Centershot Ministries. As an expert bowhunter and passionate archery advocate, Aaron has dedicated his life to using the sport as a tool for faith-based outreach. Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Aaron leads Centershot Ministries, a program that equips churches and communities to engage with archery while sharing the gospel. His family boasts three generations of devoted elk hunters, faithfully participating in Colorado elk season year after year.
A Life Shaped by the Outdoors: Aaron shares powerful lessons from his upbringing on a Colorado ranch, where his father instilled wisdom about hard work, resilience, and the natural cycle of life.
Quote from Aaron: "The outside is good for the inside."
Wisdom from Matt McPherson: "Boys do what they want to do; men do what they should do."
Archery as a Calling: We explore Aaron’s journey into bowhunting and professional archery. He discusses the discipline, patience, and life lessons archery has taught him.
Key Takeaway: "Aim with grace. Judge targets, not people."
Elite Partnerships – Mathews Archery: Aaron shares his journey with Mathews Archery, his experiences competing at a professional level, and insights into the world of competitive archery.
Centershot Ministries – Archery Meets Faith: Discover how Centershot Ministries merges archery with Christian outreach, using the sport as a powerful metaphor to share the gospel.
Epic Backcountry Adventures: Aaron recounts a thrilling mountain lion encounter and other unforgettable moments from his years in the wilderness.
What’s Next for Aaron: From upcoming shooting competitions to one of the world’s largest archery events in Kentucky, Aaron discusses what’s on the horizon.
This episode is packed with inspiration, adventure, and wisdom for bowhunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection between faith and the outdoors. Whether you're passionate about archery or just love a good hunting story, you won't want to miss this conversation with Aaron Scheer.
Want to be part of this mission? Visit Centershot.org to learn more about how you can get involved, donate, or start an archery ministry in your community.
Don’t forget to subscribe to The Storied Outdoors, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow hunters, archers, and outdoor enthusiasts!
Episode Highlights: Why You Should Listen: Support Centershot Ministries:
Join us for an exciting return conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast! Ben is an avid outdoorsman, storyteller, and the driving force behind Dorsal Outdoors. Known for his passion for fly fishing, hunting, conservation, and capturing outdoor adventures through storytelling, Ben is truly our kind of people.
In this episode, we dive deep into Ben’s latest project—a powerful new YouTube series from Dorsal Outdoors called Born Retriever. This six-part series follows Ben’s journey as he trains his family Labrador, Riggins, from couch potato to fully-trained duck and upland hunting dog. Ben shares the challenges, triumphs, and valuable life lessons that come with training a dog for hunting, while also exploring the bond between hunter and retriever.
We discuss the importance of documenting outdoor stories, behind-the-scenes moments from the Born Retriever series, and why this series is so meaningful to Ben. He opens up about the reflection process in Part 6 of the series, the lost opportunities with Riggins that he sought to redeem, and what he’s learned from the experience. Ben also shares the dream projects Dorsal Outdoors is working on next and how listeners can support their mission to tell more outdoor stories.
Whether you’re a hunter, dog lover, or simply passionate about outdoor adventure, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Grab your favorite camp chair, sit back, and join us for an engaging conversation with Ben Meadows on The Storied Outdoors podcast.
Connect with Dorsal Outdoors on their Website Here
Subscribe to their YouTube Channel Here
Follow Dorsal on Instagram Here
Ep 145: Trent Ellis: Social Media Comedian/ Redneck Recorder
Title: Hunting, Humor, and Storytelling with Trent Ellis
Summary:
Welcome back to The Storied Outdoors, where we find clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. In this episode, we sit down with Trent Ellis—a husband, father, outdoorsman, and social media personality known for blending hunting and humor across platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Trent shares his journey into the outdoors, his creative process for content creation, and how he balances faith, family, and his growing online presence. We explore the intersection of comedy and conservation, the challenges of being a hunting influencer, and what’s next for his brand. Whether you’re passionate about hunting, storytelling, faith, or just love a good laugh, this episode is packed with insight and entertainment.
🔥 Topics Covered:
✅ Trent’s background and how hunting became a cornerstone of his life
✅ Balancing family life with content creation
✅ The inspiration behind his hunting and comedy videos
✅ The creative process behind his viral content
✅ Challenges of being a hunting influencer and handling criticism
✅ The future of his brand and upcoming adventures
🎧 Listen Now on: [Spotify] | [Apple Podcasts] | [YouTube]
🔗 Connect with Trent:
📱 Follow Trent on
#Hunting #Comedy #Storytelling #Faith #TheStoriedOutdoors
In this episode, we are joined by Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois—an acclaimed chef, storyteller, and outdoorsman whose passion for Southern cuisine is matched only by his love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Chef Jean-Paul brings a deep appreciation for food, tradition, and the stories that connect us, from his roots in Louisiana to cooking across the country.
In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois, a man whose love for the outdoors is as rich and deeply rooted as his passion for Southern cuisine. We start by exploring his upbringing in Louisiana, where his connection to the land and water first took hold. Jean-Paul remembers the moments of broken down boats and times in the duck blind that sparked his love for the outdoors, setting the stage for a life intertwined with food, tradition, and adventure.
We then dive into his journey toward a career in the culinary arts—how he found his way into the kitchen and the influences that shaped him as a chef. Much like a musician is molded by the songs they learn and the artists they admire, Jean-Paul reflects on the chefs, experiences, and flavors that have left a lasting mark on his cooking. From kitchens from New York City, all the way to France, to time spent in the field and on the water, he shares how his love for hunting and fishing has found its way back into his career and personal life.
But beyond the food and the wild places, Jean-Paul opens up about something even more profound. He recently shared a moment on Instagram—his baptism in the ocean. We talk about what led him to that powerful decision, what he remembers about that day, and the significance of experiencing such a life-changing moment.
We discuss faith, food, and the pursuit of a life well-seasoned with stories and adventure. You won’t want to miss this one.
Visit Jean'-Paul’s website: www.jeanpaulbourgeois.com
Watch Duck Camp Dinners presented by Meat Eater: Watch Here
In this action-packed episode of The Storied Outdoors, Brad and Bryan reunite with some unforgettable past guests for an adventure that will go down in the record books. Joining them are Captain Blake Walters, aka the Fairhope Fly Guy, along with Dr. Hank Hershey and Dr. Hugh Cheek, as they relive a truly epic day of fly fishing for redfish.
From poling skiffs through glassy marsh waters to heart-pounding moments of fish on (and fish lost), this episode captures the thrill, camaraderie, and storytelling that make time on the water so special. We dive into Bryan’s milestone moment—landing his very first saltwater fish on the fly—along with the inevitable tales of the ones that got away.
With plenty of laughs, unforgettable memories, and a celebration of the great outdoors, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love a good fishing tale, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy the ride!
🎣🐟 Keywords: Fly fishing, redfish, saltwater fly fishing, outdoor adventure, fishing podcast, Gulf Coast fishing, poling skiff, fishing stories, The Storied Outdoors, Captain Blake Walters, Fairhope Fly Guy.
Season 10 Premiere: A Reunion of Storytellers, Adventure, and Reflection
The Storied Outdoors podcast kicks off its tenth season with an unforgettable gathering of past guests and friends, celebrating a decade of storytelling, adventure, and the pursuit of meaning in the great outdoors. Hosts Brad Hill and Bryan Gill are joined in person by Dr. Hank Hershey, Dr. Hugh Cheek, and Mobile-area fishing guide Blake Walters for a fireside-style conversation filled with wild tales, deep reflections, and a look ahead at what’s to come.
We dive into the heart of The Storied Outdoors—why we tell these stories and the lasting impact they carry. Hugh shares a gripping account of floating through Kentucky’s wild waters, finding himself lying in the iconic bluegrass, staring up at the vast sky, and contemplating life’s bigger picture.
As we set the stage for an exciting new season, we drop hints about upcoming episodes that promise even more adventure, wisdom, and insight. Join us as we celebrate our 10th season of finding clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us.
Listen now and be part of the journey! 🎧🏕️🎣
Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on an incredible Season 9 of The Storied Outdoors! Like trying to pick a favorite child, they highlight some of the most memorable interviews—conversations with Kansas Sartin and the team at Pakmule, Courtney Ellis, Leonce Crump, and many more inspiring guests. This season has been a journey of fresh perspectives and familiar voices, all coming together to share stories that shape us.
🚨 Hat Preorder Update! 🚨 We’re just 25 hats away from fulfilling our preorder! Be part of the adventure by grabbing a Storied Outdoors hat and helping us continue telling these stories. DM us on Instagram or visit our website to claim yours today!
Thank you for being part of The Storied Outdoors community! We hope these stories inspire and challenge you to write your own and step into new adventures. If you’ve enjoyed this season, please leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform—it truly helps us keep sharing these incredible journeys. 🌿🎙️ #TheStoriedOutdoors #Podcast #OutdoorAdventure #Storytelling
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome two incredible guests to The Storied Outdoors: Pastor Joby Martin and author Charles Martin. Joby, the founder and lead pastor of The Church of Eleven22 in Jacksonville, Florida, is not only a devoted husband and father but also an “epic outdoorsman,” as described by our mutual friend Léonce Crump. With countless hunting stories and a deep well of spiritual insight, Joby brings a unique perspective to our conversation.
Joining him is an acclaimed author and now a three-time guest on the podcast Charles Martin. Together, Joby and Charles have co-authored the powerful new book Run Over By the Grace Train, which explores the transformative nature of God’s grace—how it changes everything about us and leaves us powerless in the best possible way.
In this episode, we discuss:
We also hear some exciting news about Charles’s Keeper Series of novels and a new book that dives deeper into the idea of biblical manhood, addressing the responsibilities and privileges that come with it.
Grab a copy of Run Over By the Grace Train and dive into the incomparable, immeasurable grace of Jesus: Link to purchase.
Thank you for listening to this episode of The Storied Outdoors. If you enjoyed it, please take a moment to rate, review, and share it with someone who loves adventure, faith, and the great outdoors.
In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we welcome Matt Russell, a 70.3 Ironman Champion, professional triathlete, coach, and one of the fastest athletes in Kona Ironman World Championship history. Raised on a New York farm, Matt shares how his upbringing shaped his determination, work ethic, and love for the outdoors.
Matt’s story is more than just about podiums and records—it’s about faith, resilience, and seeing each day as a gift from God. He opens up about the lessons his father taught him about the outdoors and how his childhood on the farm instilled the perseverance required for his Ironman success.
We explore Matt’s journey from a young athlete to becoming a professional triathlete, the drive that fueled his passion, and the challenges he overcame along the way—including a life-threatening bike accident in 2017. Matt shares the inspiring story of his recovery and what it was like to return to the Kona Ironman World Championships after that near-death experience.
Listeners will hear Matt’s thoughts on turning adversity into an asset, the unforgettable experiences he’s had in nature (like spotting a moose during training), and why time spent outdoors creates deeper, more meaningful memories than any theme park visit.
Key Quotes from the Episode:
"Each day is a gift from God."
"Everyone has challenging times. You can go down a negative path, or you can turn the experience into an asset for you and for others."
"Pushing yourself to do new things, you sometimes hit a wall—but you see them as a hurdle."
Join us as we dive into Matt’s incredible story of grit, gratitude, and the transformative power of nature.
Follow Matt on Instagram Here
Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for 20% off online and in-store.
For questions or comments, email thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you.
Music Written and recorded by Brad Hill
We’re genuinely blessed to welcome back Wade Blevins, a cherished regular on The Storied Outdoors and a man with stories as vast as the waters he loves to fish. In this episode, Wade opens up about a life-threatening experience that forever etched itself into his journey.
What unfolds is more than a recounting of events—it’s a deep dive into how trials can refine our focus, intensify our purpose, and bring breathtaking clarity to the things that truly matter. With the dawn of this new year, Wade’s story will challenge you to reflect on your own priorities, reminding us all of the value of faith, resilience, and community.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation with Wade without some fishing tales sprinkled in, offering a perfect mix of adventure and wisdom around our digital campfire.
Pull up a chair and join us for one of our most powerful episodes yet. Be ready to laugh, reflect, and walk away encouraged. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Grab a cup of hot chocolate and cozy up by the fire for this episode of The Storied Outdoors as Brad Hill reads “Hidden Wonders,” a short story written by Dr. Bryan Gill. “Hidden Wonders” follows the Heatherford’s, a family whose plans were thwarted by an unexpected blizzard that grounded all southbound flights out of New York—including theirs. With limited options, they decide to drop in on their eccentric Uncle Doc for the holidays. While this was not their original plan for Christmas, it might just be the one they needed to restore their children’s fading Christmas spirit. We hope you enjoy this story and have a Merry Christmas!
Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.
The Christmas Pageant (A Christmas Story) by Dr. Bryan Gill is the story of a sweet family trying to figure out how to navigate the holidays after a tragic accident that took their mother and left their son disabled. After a resurgence of the town’s Christmas Pageant that reunites a town, this family finds a way to redeem their sadness with new Christmas traditions. We hope you enjoy this Christmas episode written by Dr. Bryan Gill and read by Brad Hill. Intro music is also presented by Brad Hill. Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.
“One Horse Open Sleigh” by Dr. Bryan Gill is inspired by the original lyrics of “Jingle Bells,” that read, “A day or two ago, I thought I'd take a ride And soon, Miss Fanny Bright Was seated by my side…” Bryan wrote this story about two little girls and a mahogany Clydesdale that loved nothing more than pulling a shiny red sleigh in the snow. The horse changes the lives of the little girls, but that’s not the only transformation that takes place. Enjoy this story that takes a peek into the fictional life of the iconic Christmas card image of a horse-drawn sleigh. Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure. We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.
The Fox and the Fawn, by Dr. Bryan Gill, is a whimsical story about a little girl and her father’s never-ending love for her. Brad Hill masterfully reads this story and makes the characters come alive. We hope you’ll enjoy this heartwarming Christmas story, The Fox and the Fawn.
Visit Redbeardsoutfitter.com and use promo code TSO for a 20% discount online and in-store. They have some amazing apparel and gear to outfit you for your next adventure.
We would love to hear from you, if you have any questions, comments, poems, and or recommendations for us, email us thestoriedoutdoors@gmail.com Music written and recorded by Brad Hill.
