Hunting Connection Podcast

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Nathan, the creator of Sambar Tracker—an innovative app built by hunters, for hunters. Sambar Tracker is designed to help hunters get more out of every trip to the bush. From integrated Victorian hunting maps and trip planning tools to harvest logging, weather data, freezer management, and sharing hunts with mates, it’s an all-in-one platform created specifically for Australian deer hunters. Nathan shares how he got started hunting, the inspiration behind developing Sambar Tracker, and how the app has grown into a valuable tool for hunters looking to stay organised, track their success, and build a detailed history of their time in the field. We also chat about sambar hunting in Victoria, technology in hunting, and how collecting and analysing hunting data can help hunters learn, improve, and make the most of every opportunity in the bush. A great conversation about hunting, innovation, and giving hunters the tools they need to hunt smarter.

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast I’m joined by Dustin Fincher, better known as “Dusty”. Him and I have been going back and forth for years swapping hunting stories, photos and plenty of good yarns, so it was good to finally sit down and have a proper chat. Since moving house and trying to get the new setup sorted, I’ve been a little short on episodes, so I hit Dusty up for a quick catch up about how he got started hunting and what he’s up to these days. Even though this one only runs for about 45 minutes, it honestly felt like 5. Dusty is a full-time outdoorsman living the sort of lifestyle most hunters dream about. From assisting guided hunts in Alaska during hunting season, to guiding shark fishing charters in Florida, he’s spent his life outdoors. He also took his first deer at just 6 years old, so hunting has been in his blood from the start. This definitely won’t be the last episode with Dusty either — once the new studio is fully set up we’ll be getting him back on for a lot more chats. Give him a follow on Instagram at @runtotheoutdoors.

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Brett Beesley. After my last chat with Rick from Life Goes On Adventures, Rick suggested I reach out to Brett—and I’m glad he did. We dive into Brett’s story, touching on his accident, the road to recovery, and how he’s adapted to life while continuing to chase his passion for hunting. Brett shares how he’s modified his quad bike to suit his needs, allowing him to get back out there and take on big adventures. Brett’s hunting journey is nothing short of incredible—from chasing buffalo, boars, banteng, and scrub bulls in the Top End, to hunting lions in Africa. He’s another paraplegic hunter proving that nothing can hold you back when the drive is there.

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Dan from Hunters Reward Co. We chat about how it all started, what drove him to build it, and his passion for hunting and the Aussie hunting community. Hunter’s Rewards is built by hunters, for hunters — a membership-based community rewarding hunters and fishos for doing what they already love. We dive into the roots of hunting in Australia, the lifestyle, the mateship, and why bringing the community together matters now more than ever. Members get access to monthly giveaways, exclusive discounts, gear deals, and a growing network of like-minded people — all while supporting Aussie businesses that back the industry. It’s not run by suits — it’s built by someone living the lifestyle. Check it out here: https://huntersrewardsco.com.au/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAdGRleAQ3IoZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAaehqdQiH9wMFgcqXD9nhBpoDaw_NFDpm8y2Ru43yFmGuNMY961XbcMhs5VVfQ_aem_jtST4TIO4nQt3QiBrSZ61g

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Scotty Stewart and his 11-year-old son, Khyson. Scotty has over 30 years of bowhunting experience and spent many years pig dogging, and he’s well known for consistently taking big boars and Billy goats. We talk about how Scotty got started, his journey through hunting, and what it’s been like passing that knowledge on to his son. Khyson is in and out of the podcast as we record at a park—chasing a feral cat, catching turtles, and just being a kid. Khyson also shares his own hunting stories, including his first pig and two incredible Billy goats: a 37-inch at just 10 years old and a 38-inch—trophies most bowhunters dream of and spend a lifetime chasing. Scotty dives into some wild stories about “Billy-eating boars”—pigs that are purely predatory and will kill and eat not only kid goats but mid to fully grown goats—and his theories on why this happens. We had to wrap things up quicker than planned, with Scotty getting eaten alive by mozzies by the lake, but I’m looking forward to sitting down with him again and hearing more of his stories in future episodes.

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Chance from Quillcreek. Chance is a mad-keen waterfowl hunter from Wisconsin with a deep passion for ducks and geese. From guiding waterfowl hunts to competing in waterfowl calling competitions, Chance has been immersed in the waterfowl world for years. We dive into how he first got started in hunting, how he learned and refined the art of calling, and what led him to begin making his own custom calls. We also talk about the waterfowl scene in the United States, the dedication and practice it takes to compete at a high level, and what keeps him driven to chase birds season after season. It’s a great chat covering hunting culture, craftsmanship, and the obsession that comes with waterfowl hunting.

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Rob Baldinger, also known as The Venison Diplomat. We dive into how Rob got into hunting, what it truly means to him, and his passion for strengthening the hunting community by educating the next generation. Rob shares the story behind his new children’s book, I Am a Deer Hunter, with more titles already in the works. This fun and engaging book is a fantastic read for kids and a great way to introduce them to hunting values, respect for nature, and where food really comes from. Learn more about Rob and his work at thevenisondiplomat.com.au

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Ben Hohnke from Hohnke Outdoors. Ben is a passionate outdoorsman with a love for hunting, fishing, spearfishing and foraging. I first discovered Hohnke Outdoors through their TikTok, where they showcased their awesome foraging identification cards for kids. With the release of his new book, “Rivers of Passage,” it was the perfect time to get Ben on for a chat. We dive into how he got started in all his outdoor pursuits, and how the foraging cards, the book, and the spice mixes all came to life. Be sure to check out the website, explore everything they’ve created, and grab yourself some gear and a copy of the book! 🔗 https://hohnkeoutdoors.com

On this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined once again by Calem O’Grady for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation. We take a deep dive into the South Australian bowhunting ban and unpack why Calem believes the right to bowhunt is not just a recreational choice, but a fundamental human right. He explains why banning it is, in his view, morally and ethically wrong—not only for hunters, but for wildlife management, cultural connection, and personal freedom. From there, we explore Calem’s journey into the world of traditional archery, including his passion for crafting and knapping his own arrowheads. He talks about how going traditional brought him closer to the origins of hunting and deepened his understanding of the craft. Calem also shares stories from his fieldwork teaching bushcraft and survival skills, and how hands-on learning shapes more responsible and capable outdoorsmen and women. We discuss his involvement with Wild Origins Australia, what the organisation is working toward, and why their message matters now more than ever. To wrap things up, Calem gives us an exciting preview of his upcoming trip to Africa—what he hopes to learn, what he hopes to teach, and how the experience ties into his broader mission within the hunting community.

In this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Carly Parker — host of the Women Who Hunt Podcast! Carly is a relatively new hunter, but her passion for the outdoors and her drive to inspire others are second to none. We dive into how she first got into hunting, what sparked her interest, and the experiences that have shaped her journey so far. Carly also shares the story behind starting her own podcast — Women Who Hunt — and the powerful message she hopes to spread through it. We talk about breaking barriers, encouraging more women to get involved in hunting, and creating a space where female hunters feel supported and connected. Carly’s enthusiasm and positivity really shine through in this chat, making it an inspiring listen for anyone passionate about the outdoors and community. I really enjoyed this conversation, and I’m sure you will too — tune in and check it out!

In this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Cass — better known as The Aussie Adventuress! Cass might be fairly new to hunting, but her passion for the outdoors, conservation, and adventure is absolutely contagious. We dive into how she first got into hunting, what drew her to the lifestyle, and some of the incredible experiences she’s had along the way. Cass shares her journey of learning the ropes, the challenges of being a newcomer in the hunting world, and how she’s built confidence and skill through each adventure. We also chat about the idea of her starting her own podcast — what inspired it, the message she hopes to share, and the importance of building a positive and supportive hunting community. It was an awesome chat with plenty of laughs, insights, and inspiration for anyone who loves the outdoors or is just starting their hunting journey. Hope you enjoy this one as much as I did!

In this episode, I’m joined by Graham David, the man behind the Australian Hunting Group on Facebook — the largest hunting community in the country, with over 100,000 members. We chat about how he got into hunting, the story of how he came to run the page after the passing of the legendary “Gibbo,” and the fresh direction he’s taking it in today. We also dive into memberships, giveaways, and plenty more! Use code HcPodcast for 10% off memberships and merch. Hope you enjoy the episode!

In this episode of the Hunting Connection Podcast, I’m joined by Matty White from The Journeyman Way—a passionate outdoorsman whose journey into bowhunting and fly fishing has deep roots in a unique upbringing. Matty grew up on a deer farm, giving him early hands-on experience with animal behaviour, seasonal patterns, and the kind of awareness in nature that most hunters spend a lifetime developing. We dive into how that background laid the foundation for his skills in the bush, especially when it comes to tracking, stalking, and understanding wildlife movement. Matty shares how he got into bowhunting and fly fishing, what keeps him drawn to the challenge and discipline of both, and how these pursuits offer more than just a harvest—they’re a way to connect deeply with the land. But Matty’s outdoor journey doesn’t stop there. He’s also passionate about dog training, photography, bushcraft, and woodcrafting. We chat about how spending time in the bush, learning to work with your hands, and mastering the basics of survival and self-reliance can be just as rewarding as a successful hunt. Whether it’s carving a tool, building a campfire shelter, or simply slowing down and observing the world around him, Matty brings a thoughtful and grounded approach to the outdoors. This episode is full of insight, stories, and shared appreciation for the lifestyle we love. Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, bushcraft, dogs, or just hearing from someone who’s walking the walk—this one’s worth a listen. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the yarn!