Steve & Mark sit down with Ben Reynolds (@b_reynolds_ak) to discuss the topic of thriving — not just surviving — on difficult hunts. This is an open-ended conversation on the topic of thriving, which includes practical advice, personal experience, and even some philosophical perspective.
Listen Now — Hit play in the header above, access the podcast on Spotify, or download the episode from SoundCloud.
Topics Discussed
- The importance of identifying what is required to thrive, not just survive, when things get difficult in the backcountry
- Developing a framework to develop as a more capable hunter
- Why you need to define the outcome of a successful hunt, and why it is more than just filling a tag
- How challenging backcountry experiences can change us at a fundamental level
- The need to embrace the process with purpose and patience
- The difference in being motivated by experiences vs being motivated by outcomes
- How to apply hunting knowledge in a practical and beneficial way
- The need for humility and the danger of pretense
- How to learn from more experienced hunters
- Why you need to investigate the motive and background behind sources of hunting information
- How physical ability (strength and endurance) will help or hinder your capability and effectiveness as a hunter
- The value of pursuing fitness for your life, not just for hunting
- The importance of thinking long-term and not underestimating the capabilities that can be developed over time
- How to develop skillsets that contribute to your effectiveness as a hunter, but why those skills don’t need to be developed specifically in a hunting context
- Why you need to take notes and be extremely intentional to develop your potential
- How mindset is a key to success and the importance of eliminating distractions to stay present and engaged on a hunt
- Why gear is an “accessory” to thriving in the backcountry
Header Photo: Steve took this photo of Tyler hiking a remote Alaskan ridgeline on a Dall Sheep hunt.
