Episodios

  • Hunter's Quest

    Hunter's Quest
    Mar 17 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Hunter McWaters about his life, experiences in hunting, and the influence of family and community on his passion for the outdoors. They discuss the differences between living in urban and rural areas, the importance of cooking in outdoor adventures, and the role of sponsorships in the hunting industry. Hunter shares his journey from childhood fishing trips to becoming an independent bow hunter, emphasizing the thrill of bow hunting and the need to protect wildlife and ecosystems. In this conversation, Hunter McWaters shares his profound journey through hunting, addiction, and personal transformation. He discusses the adrenaline rush of hunting, the psychological aspects that drive hunters, and how his experiences in the outdoors have shaped his life. From the thrill of the hunt to the struggles with addiction, Hunter emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and connection through nature. He recounts his life-changing first Western hunt and how it led him to a career in hunting media, highlighting the spiritual and physical benefits of immersing oneself in the wilderness. Takeaways: Hunter enjoys the diversity and opportunities in Northern Virginia. Korean food has become a favorite for Hunter. Documenting outdoor adventures can lead to unexpected success. There's a growing interest in outdoor cooking among hunters and non-hunters. Sponsorships are crucial for outdoor content creators. Hunter's early experiences with his dad shaped his love for the outdoors. He became obsessed with bow hunting after his first successful hunt. The Chesapeake Bay has a rich history of waterfowl hunting. Hunter emphasizes the importance of protecting ecosystems. Learning about rifles has been a recent journey for Hunter. The adrenaline rush of hunting is unparalleled. Hunting is deeply rooted in our neurological reward system. Experiencing nature can lead to profound personal growth. Independence in hunting often begins in adolescence. Social activities can distract from outdoor pursuits during youth. Addiction can be countered by immersing oneself in nature. Hunting can serve as a catalyst for finding purpose. Backcountry hunting offers a unique and transformative experience. The connection between spirituality and the outdoors is significant. Hunting can be more than a hobby; it can be a way of life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 22 m
  • SPRING BREAK!!!

    SPRING BREAK!!!
    Mar 14 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Jeremy Dinsmore share nostalgic college memories, discuss the impact of technology on daily life, and delve into the importance of prepping for unforeseen circumstances. They also explore hunting plans for the upcoming season and the rising costs of archery equipment, reflecting on the balance between personal passions and family responsibilities. In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of hunting, including the effectiveness and pricing of trail cameras, the traditions surrounding rifle season in Pennsylvania, and the implications of changing hunting regulations. They delve into the debate over Sunday hunting laws, the dynamics between public and private land hunting, and the importance of family traditions in turkey hunting. The conversation highlights the balance between maintaining traditions and adapting to modern hunting practices. Takeaways: College experiences can lead to lifelong memories and friendships. Technology plays a crucial role in our daily lives and can disrupt our routines. Prepping for emergencies is becoming increasingly relevant in today's society. Hunting and outdoor activities provide a sense of adventure and connection to nature. The rising costs of hunting and archery equipment can be a barrier for many enthusiasts. Balancing family life with personal hobbies is a common struggle for parents. Nostalgia can be a powerful motivator for sharing stories and experiences. The importance of health and fitness in relation to outdoor activities is often overlooked. Investing in quality equipment can enhance the hunting experience. Community and camaraderie in hunting can lead to lasting friendships. Trail cameras are essential tools for modern hunters. Rifle season traditions in Pennsylvania have evolved over the years. Changes in hunting regulations can impact family traditions. The debate over Sunday hunting laws continues in Pennsylvania. Public land hunting presents different challenges compared to private land. Family traditions play a significant role in hunting experiences. The importance of adapting to modern hunting practices is emphasized. Hunters are encouraged to advocate for their rights and regulations. Turkey hunting is a cherished family activity for many hunters. Maintaining good vibes and safety is crucial in hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 7 m
  • Past, Present, Future

    Past, Present, Future
    Mar 7 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson shares insights into his busy family life, balancing wrestling, baseball, and outdoor activities with his children. He discusses the importance of public lands and the potential impact of political decisions on access to these areas. Dan reflects on the challenges of balancing personal hunting trips with family time, emphasizing the joy of involving his kids in outdoor adventures. He shares his recent shed hunting experiences and plans for the upcoming hunting season, including scouting new properties and setting up for turkey and deer hunting. The episode highlights the excitement of passing on outdoor traditions to the next generation. Takeaways: Life is incredibly busy with family activities and sports. Public lands are at risk due to political decisions. Balancing family time with personal hunting trips is essential. Involving kids in outdoor activities enhances the experience. Shed hunting provides valuable insights into deer movement. New properties can offer exciting hunting opportunities. Planning ahead for hunting seasons is crucial. The joy of hunting with kids is unmatched. Understanding the local wildlife and terrain is key to success. Embracing the unpredictability of hunting seasons is part of the adventure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 m
  • Talking With A Wild Turkey Biologist

    Talking With A Wild Turkey Biologist
    Feb 28 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Patrick Wightman, a research scientist at the University of Georgia, about wild turkey research and conservation. They discuss the importance of habitat management, the impact of hunting on wildlife research, and the current state of wild turkey populations in North America. Wightman shares insights on the factors affecting turkey mortality, including habitat loss and predation, and emphasizes the role of both public and private landowners in conservation efforts. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by federal funding cuts and the need for a broader understanding of wildlife management. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Patrick Wightman discuss ongoing research at the University of Georgia focused on wild turkeys, including innovative technologies being used to study their behavior and population dynamics. They explore the importance of collaboration among researchers, the future of wild turkeys in North America, and the impact of habitat management on turkey populations. The discussion highlights the challenges and advancements in turkey research, emphasizing the role of technology and conservation efforts. Takeaways: Patrick Wightman has been studying wild turkeys for about 10 years. His research focuses on wildlife ecology and management. Hunting experience provides a unique perspective on turkey research. Federal funding cuts are impacting wildlife research projects. Private landowners play a crucial role in habitat management. Recent years have shown a stabilization in turkey populations. Habitat loss is a significant factor in turkey mortality. Early successional habitat is vital for poult survival. State agencies manage turkey populations at a broader scale. Predation is a concern but is linked to habitat availability. We're looking at disease prevalence across these studies. We're putting GPS backpacks on these turkeys. The idea was to get gobbling chronology. It's very difficult to manage for a species where you don't know how many are on the landscape. We're hoping to learn enough about individual gobbling behavior. We can train computer software to identify differences in individual signatures. We have to get the unit back in hand for audio files. Increasing the habitat can absolutely increase the number of turkeys. Almost half of male mortality is from avian predation at night. We need to make the habitat the best we can. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 4 m
  • Hunter Profile: Brandon Ringwolski

    Hunter Profile: Brandon Ringwolski
    Feb 26 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes back Brandon Ringwalski to discuss various topics, including their experiences with harsh winter weather, memorable road trips, and the intricacies of deer hunting. The conversation delves into the environmental factors affecting deer behavior, the terrain they hunt, and the strategies they employ to locate and track deer. Brandon shares insights on the unique agricultural practices in his hunting area and how they influence deer movement and bedding patterns. In this conversation, Brandon Ringwolski shares his insights on deer hunting strategies, focusing on the importance of understanding wind direction, managing hunting pressure, and the significance of timing in the hunting season. He discusses his personal experiences, including successful hunts and the emotional connections tied to them. Brandon emphasizes the need for building relationships with landowners to gain access to hunting properties and shares valuable lessons learned over the years about hunting big bucks. The conversation also touches on the importance of access routes and wind direction in planning successful hunts. Takeaways: The harsh winter weather has been challenging for both hosts. Memorable road trips can lead to lasting life lessons. Deer hunting environments vary significantly based on terrain. Agricultural practices can influence deer behavior and movement. Bedding patterns of deer are affected by elevation and cover. Thermals play a crucial role in deer bedding locations. Using e-bikes can enhance scouting efficiency. Deer often bed based on wind direction for safety. The driftless area offers unique hunting opportunities. Good cover is essential for deer bedding. Limit early season pressure to increase success later. Utilize weather patterns to strategize hunting trips. Focus on thick cover for hunting big bucks. Building relationships with landowners is crucial. Understanding deer movement patterns is key to success. Timing your hunts can lead to better opportunities. Access routes can make or break a hunting trip. Harvesting does is part of a balanced hunting strategy. Be prepared to help landowners in exchange for access. Learn from past experiences to improve future hunts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 7 m
  • Hypothetical Scenarios & Missing Limbs w/ Tony Peterson

    Hypothetical Scenarios & Missing Limbs w/ Tony Peterson
    Feb 21 2025
    In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson and Tony Peterson explore a variety of themes ranging from their bizarre dreams to pet peeves that annoy them. They delve into misconceptions in hunting, the importance of personal growth, and the impact of jealousy and comparison on one's happiness. The discussion also touches on the cultural differences observed in social settings and the often frustrating conversations about money. In this engaging conversation, Tony and Dan explore themes of generational wealth, cultural differences, and the value of humility in wealth. They discuss their musical tastes and how music connects to emotions, before pivoting to hunting stories and experiences. The conversation takes a humorous turn with hypothetical scenarios about life choices, including the implications of cutting off a hand for financial gain. Takeaways: Dreams can reveal our subconscious fears and desires. Pet peeves often reflect deeper personality traits. Misconceptions in hunting can lead to poor practices. Personal growth requires self-reflection and responsibility. Jealousy is a natural human impulse but can be detrimental. Comparison can rob us of our joy and satisfaction. Conversations about money can be tedious and unproductive. Cultural differences can shape our perceptions of others. Humor can be a coping mechanism for stress. Understanding our values can lead to personal fulfillment. Generational wealth can shape cultural perspectives and behaviors. Humility in wealth can make individuals more admirable. Music serves as an emotional outlet and a form of expression. Hunting stories often reveal unexpected humor and insights. Gun safety is a critical topic in hunting discussions. Hypothetical scenarios can lead to interesting life reflections. Cultural differences influence how wealth is perceived and discussed. The unpredictability of music can enhance its appeal. Humor can be found in serious topics like hunting and gun safety. Life choices can be influenced by financial considerations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h
  • Grunt, Gobble, Meow

    Grunt, Gobble, Meow
    Feb 19 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes back Paul Campbell to discuss the upcoming turkey hunting season, the challenges of balancing life and hunting passions, and the importance of parenting. They delve into the significance of time management and the emotional aspects of giving to conservation organizations like the NWTF. The conversation also highlights the purpose of the NWTF convention and its historical context in turkey conservation. In this conversation, Paul Campbell and Dan Johnson discuss the evolution and significance of the NWTF Convention, highlighting its role as a major event for turkey hunters and a fundraiser for conservation efforts. They explore the unique culture of turkey hunting, the community it fosters, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming turkey season. The discussion also touches on the differences between turkey and deer hunting, emphasizing the camaraderie and shared experiences among hunters. In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson and Paul Campbell share their experiences and strategies in turkey and whitetail hunting. They discuss memorable hunts, the thrill of chasing elusive game, and the unique behaviors of deer. The conversation flows from humorous anecdotes about unconventional hunting tactics to serious discussions about hunting ethics and future plans. Paul shares his quest for a giant buck, reflecting on the challenges and excitement of the hunt, while also emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences in the hunting world. Takeaways: Paul shares his recent hunting experiences and successes. Dan discusses the struggle of balancing work and family life. The importance of valuing time with family as one ages. Paul reflects on the emotional reasons behind charitable giving. The NWTF convention serves as a hub for turkey hunters. 90% of donations to NWTF go directly to conservation efforts. The podcast emphasizes the significance of raising functional adults as parents. Both guests acknowledge the challenges of time management in their lives. The conversation highlights the grassroots nature of the NWTF. Paul expresses pride in his role within the NWTF and its mission. The NWTF Convention serves as a family reunion for turkey hunters. The event has grown significantly, attracting close to 90,000 attendees. It's a major platform for companies to launch new turkey hunting products. The convention includes educational components and competitions that promote turkey hunting. Conservation efforts are highlighted through events like the callmaker show and fundraising concerts. Turkey hunting fosters a unique culture with less ego compared to deer hunting. Hunters celebrate the opportunity to participate in the sport rather than focusing on scores or trophies. Paul shares his extensive turkey hunting plans across multiple states. The camaraderie among hunters enhances the overall experience of turkey hunting. Paul emphasizes the importance of enjoying the hunt and sharing experiences with others. Turkey hunting can be unpredictable and humorous. Using unconventional methods can lead to success in hunting. The thrill of the chase is a significant part of hunting. Building relationships with landowners can enhance hunting opportunities. Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting. Patience and strategy are key when hunting elusive game. The bond between hunters fosters a sense of community. Hunting experiences often lead to valuable life lessons. The excitement of seeing a giant buck is unparalleled. Future hunting plans can drive motivation and focus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 28 m
  • The Evolution Of A Hunter and Man

    The Evolution Of A Hunter and Man
    Feb 14 2025
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson engages with Brandon Ringwalski, discussing the rich culinary traditions of Wisconsin, the transition into fatherhood, and the evolution of hunting strategies over the years. Brandon shares his experiences from pre-kids hunting to military life, and how these experiences shaped his approach to hunting and family life. The conversation delves into the challenges of balancing hunting passions with family responsibilities, and the importance of relationships in navigating these changes. Brandon reflects on his hunting successes and the realistic expectations of deer hunting in Wisconsin, providing insights into the hunting culture and personal growth. In this conversation, Brandon Ringwolski shares his journey of adapting his hunting strategies and mindset after becoming a parent. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with hunting, the importance of learning from past mistakes, and how he has found success by reevaluating his approach to scouting and hunting. Brandon emphasizes the value of using time efficiently and prioritizing family while still pursuing his passion for hunting. Takeaways: Wisconsin is known for its rich culinary traditions, especially fish fries. Transitioning to fatherhood brings significant changes to hunting habits. Military life can limit hunting opportunities but strengthens relationships. Post-military, there is a renewed focus on hunting and making up for lost time. Balancing family life and hunting requires communication and understanding. Hunting strategies evolve significantly after becoming a parent. The importance of independence in a relationship enhances mutual support. Success in hunting often comes with patience and realistic expectations. Wisconsin offers a variety of hunting opportunities, including quality deer. Personal growth is often reflected in the evolution of hunting practices. Brandon experienced a meltdown during his hunting journey. He initially repeated mistakes but learned from them over time. Hunting should be fun and not a source of stress. Reevaluating goals is crucial when life changes occur. Scouting in the offseason can lead to better hunting success. Consolidating hobbies can free up time for hunting. Success in hunting can come from reduced pressure on hunting spots. Finding success requires adapting to new life circumstances. Scouting days can be more valuable than hunting days. Family should always come first, even in hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 9 m