Got Game University Podcast

Back from a short break, Mike and Ryan dive into a deceptively simple question: If you had the power to change one thing about hunting, what would it be? Ryan explores the tension around resident opportunity and out-of-state pressure in Idaho—and what it really means to choose a lifestyle built around hunting. Mike imagines a radical (and slightly ridiculous) shift in predator behavior that would transform spring bear season forever. Underneath the humor is a deeper conversation about sacrifi...

In this episode of Just the Tip Tuesday, Mike and Ryan flip the script on the usual “do more, grind harder” hunting advice. Instead of talking about what makes you a better hunter, they dive into what they’ve stopped doing—and how those changes made the biggest difference. Mike opens up about stepping away from regular alcohol consumption and the unexpected ripple effects it had on his health, family life, and time in the field. Ryan shares how letting go of social media pressure and the “nee...

Welcome back to Just the Tip Tuesday — and welcome to 2026. After a much-needed break from social media, podcasting, and the noise of everyday life, Mike Edgehouse and Ryan Smith are back with fresh batteries, tighter shirts, and a renewed perspective on what actually matters. This episode isn’t about New Year’s resolutions. It’s about intentions. Mike kicks things off by sharing seven powerful questions passed down from his son’s hockey mindset coach — questions that force real self-reflecti...

In this special Christmas edition of Just the Tip Tuesday, Mike and Ryan unwrap their ultimate hunter’s holiday gift guide—from budget-friendly gear to big-ticket upgrades that will change your season. The guys cover everything from the legendary Kinko mittens and “No Snow” leather treatment to Sitka layers, Tricer bino adapters, SheepFeet insoles, and even the game-changing SIG stabilized binoculars. You’ll hear steak-cooking stories, hunting-partner ribbing, and one traumatic neck-gaiter e...

In this episode of the Game Tech University “Just the Tip Tuesday” podcast, Ryan Smith sits down with Game Tech co-founder Tayler Tibbitts to break down an elk hunt that had just about everything: big summer expectations, painful misses, dad duty on the mountain, and a last-day bull that finally came together in the snow and fog. Tayler shares how a carefully scouted “plan A” fell apart when rifle season hit and the elk weren’t where he’d found them all summer. He talks through: Missing the s...

Whether it’s a small cut or something more serious, being prepared in the wild matters. Ryan Smith goes solo this week to talk about first aid in the field — what to pack, what to skip, and how to be ready for the unexpected. Hear practical advice from medical pros and get tips on lightweight gear that keeps you safe without weighing you down.

We’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes! In this rerun, Ryan and Mike go all out as they each share their top 3 must-haves in their kill kits. These aren’t your typical items like knives or game bags — we’re talking about the underrated, often-overlooked gear that can make a real difference in the field.

In this week’s episode of Game Tech and Cut Rite, Mike and Ryan reflect on another elk season—one filled with highs, lows, and lessons that will carry them into next year. From missed shots and bruised arms to the importance of remembering your “ABCs” in the heat of the moment, they dig into the hard-earned wisdom that only comes from time in the mountains. Mike shares how practicing “purposeful patience” led him straight into a bugle fest, while Ryan opens up about a missed opportunity that ...

Welcome back to Just the Tip Tuesday, a Cut-Rite x Got Game Tech collab. We’re rewinding to our Elk Nut series featuring Paul Medel—architect of the ElkNut app—and unpacking timeless elk language. In this first rerun, Ryan and Taylor revisit cow bugles, why meanings don’t change by gender, and when a “cow bugle” belongs in your cold-calling toolbox. Paul breaks down sneaking on advertising bulls, reading growls versus nervous grunts, playing both caller and shooter as a solo hunter, and using...

We’re bringing back a classic ElkNet conversation from the Got Game University Podcast archives. In this second episode of the series, Ryan and Taylor sit down with Paul “ElkNut” Medell for an in-depth discussion that’s just as valuable today as it was when it first aired. Paul unpacks whether bulls use challenging bugles toward cows, explains the emotional nuance in elk vocalizations, and shares proven strategies for hunting in open terrain. He also highlights the biggest calling mistakes hu...

On this Just the Tip Tuesday, Mike and Ryan blend hunting humor with a huge announcement: the brand-new CutRite app update. From improved video angles and real-time butchering tutorials to added taxidermy prep and meat care tips, the update redefines how hunters process game—at a fraction of the cost of a butcher. The guys also dive into why patience with purpose is one of the most valuable skills in the elk woods, sharing stories of close calls, smart plays, and lessons learned. A must-liste...

In this week’s episode of Just the Tip Tuesday, Mike Edgehouse and Ryan Smith dive deep into a simple but profound question: Why do we hunt? Beyond the gear, the packouts, and the early mornings, this episode explores the emotional, psychological, and spiritual reasons that keep them returning to the wild. From multi-day backcountry therapy to late-night meat prep, they reflect on the pride, peace, and purpose hunting brings. Whether you hunt, fish, hike, or just love the outdoors, this episo...

In this no-fluff episode, Mike and Ryan dive nose-first into elk scouting, literally. Skip the polished tactics and get real insights from a couple of Idaho rednecks who scout with their senses, not their gear. From turning family hikes into recon missions to sniffing out bedding areas mid-day, it’s grassroots elk wisdom with some fart jokes and man-cave banter thrown in. If you're short on time but big on drive, this one’s for you.