PH Journals Podcast

There are the obvious things you pack for safari… and then there are the items you don't think you need—until you're out in the bush wishing you had them. In this solo episode of PH Journals, I share some of the most underrated pieces of gear that have earned a permanent place in my bag over the years. From recovery tools after long days on your feet, to action cameras, spotting scope adapters, leather gloves, beanies, neck cozies, and even a few unconventional additions that can save the day when things go wrong. I also talk about why a small "gear first aid kit" containing items like thread, a needle, and super glue can be worth its weight in gold, plus why a Leatherman and an electric screwdriver have become must-haves on my safaris. These aren't necessarily the first things people think to pack, but they've made a huge difference in camp and out in the field. In this episode we cover: Hyperice infrared and vibration belt for recovery The GY6 action camera setup Using Ollin with a spotting scope for incredible footage Leather gloves for cold mornings and evenings A simple gear repair and emergency kit Beanies and neck cozies Why a Leatherman multi-tool belongs on every safari The surprisingly useful electric screwdriver Whether you're planning your first African safari or have been hunting for years, hopefully this episode gives you a few ideas for items that can make your next adventure a little more comfortable and a lot more enjoyable. Enjoy the episode, and as always, thanks for listening to PH Journals.

This episode breaks down why the first 48 hours of a safari determine everything that follows. From airport pickup to the first morning in the bush, I unpack the psychology, leadership, and subtle decisions that shape a hunter’s experience. Whether you're a client preparing for Africa or a PH looking to refine your approach, this conversation will give you practical insight into what really makes a safari unforgettable. Because it’s never just about the first animal — it’s about the foundation you build before the first shot.

Tipping after a hunting safari in Africa is one of the most misunderstood parts of the experience — especially for international hunters visiting South Africa for the first time. In this solo episode, I break down safari tipping and gratuities in a clear, practical way. We cover who should be tipped, how much is considered fair, when tips are usually given, and why tipping plays such an important role in the African hunting and game industry. This episode includes real-world guidance on: Tipping a Professional Hunter (PH) Gratuities for trackers, skinners, and camp staff Common tipping mistakes hunters make Why gratuities directly impact conservation, livelihoods, and service quality How to plan and budget for tips before your safari Whether you’re planning your first African hunt or returning for another safari, this episode will help you feel confident, prepared, and respectful when it comes to tipping in South Africa and across Africa. This is an honest, experience-based conversation aimed at improving understanding within the hunting industry and helping hunters navigate safari culture with clarity.

What should you pack for a South African hunting safari? In this episode of the PH Journals Podcast, we break down a complete African safari gear bag from the perspective of a professional hunter who spends hundreds of days in the veld. This is not a catalogue gear list or sponsored episode. It’s a real-world, practical safari packing guide covering everything from binoculars, boots, and optics to the small but critical items most hunters forget — including medical kits, hygiene essentials, and camp-life gear. Whether you’re planning your first African plains game safari, returning for your second or third hunt, or simply want to refine your kit, this episode will help you avoid common mistakes that cost hunters comfort, confidence, and opportunities in the field. 🎯 In this episode, we cover: Choosing the right safari gear bag (and why soft bags matter in Africa) Binoculars, rangefinders, and optics that actually work in African conditions The ideal safari clothing system for heat, cold mornings, and long walks Hunting boots and foot care — avoiding blisters on safari What medical items and personal gear every hunter should bring to Africa Electronics, batteries, and power solutions for African lodges and camps Important documents and permits hunters often overlook What not to pack for a hunting safari in South Africa Why your gear should disappear while hunting — not distract you 🦌 Who this episode is for: First-time African safari hunters Returning plains game and dangerous game hunters International hunters traveling to South Africa Bowhunters and rifle hunters alike Anyone searching for a realistic African safari packing list 🌍 Why African safaris are different: South African hunting conditions are dusty, dry, unpredictable, and physically demanding. Packing correctly isn’t about bringing more — it’s about bringing the right gear, tested in real hunting scenarios. This episode is built on experience, not theory, and is designed to help you hunt more comfortably, more confidently, and more effectively in Africa.

In last night’s PH Journals podcast, I unpacked one of the biggest recent shifts in African game regulations: the Bontebok has officially been removed from CITES Appendix II. In this episode, I break down:• What the CITES delisting actually means• How this affects the South African hunting industry• Why export becomes easier — but not completely unrestricted• Whether Bontebok trophies can now be imported into the United States• The difference between CITES rules and U.S. ESA regulations• Why hunters should still be cautious about assuming “permit-free” imports• What this could mean for conservation, game farms, and future management This is a crucial moment for landowners, outfitters, PHs, and international hunters — and the implications go far beyond one species. If you want to understand where the industry is heading, this episode is a must-watch.

In this episode of PH Journals, we dive into one of the biggest conservation headlines of the year — the High Court ruling in Kimberley that could change the future of rhino conservation in South Africa. The court has opened the door for the legal and regulated export of rhino horn from conservation-bred animals — a potential game changer for funding wildlife protection, supporting rural communities, and taking the fight to poaching. But beyond the headlines, I also explore a deeper question in the hunting world…Why do we as hunters feel the need to constantly justify ourselves with phrases like “public land”, “free range”, or “ethical shot”?When did storytelling turn into defence? Join me as I unpack both topics — the new era of rhino conservation, and the way we as hunters can reclaim our narrative with pride, honesty, and respect. 🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or right here on YouTube.#PHJournals #RhinoConservation #EthicalHunting #FairChase #AfricanSafari #HuntingPodcast #WildlifeConservation #ConservationThroughHunting