Shows / The Ozark Podcast

The Ozark Podcast
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our guests and…
Episodes
The Ozark PodcastEp. 190 - Dan Kreher & Augy Knickmeyer of Missouri Smallmouth Alliance - Missouri's Ongoing Battle for Smallmouth Protection
→ Join "The Holler" We're floating down the scenic Meramec River with two passionate voices in smallmouth bass conservation: Dan Kreher and…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 189 - The Old Ozarks - Sow Coons a-Blowin' Across this Land (S1: E10)
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins... We dig into the region’s long and violent relationship with tornadoes, known around here by a wide variety…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 188 - Spencer Daniels of AGFC - Debunking Black Bear Myths + What To Do If Acorns Drop Early (Again) This Season
→ Join "The Holler" The Ozarks are home to one of the most remarkable conservation comeback stories in the U.S.: the return of the black…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 187 - Chef Matt Cooper - The Real Reason You Won't Find Wild Venison or Fresh-caught Fish on Ozark Menus
→ Join "The Holler" In this episode, Matt dives deep into what it means to cook with purpose, the tangled laws behind serving wild game and…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 186 - The Old Ozarks - Off We Go into the Clabbered-up Yonder (S1: E9)
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins... Sometimes, a single word can "open up the sky" to an entirely new world. In this episode, we begin with…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 185 - Chef Matt Cooper - How this James Beard Nominee Gets Inspiration from His Ozark Roots
→ Join "The Holler" What if a restaurant wasn’t just about food, but about roots and connection? In this episode, we sit down with Chef Matt…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 184 - The Check Station - Building the Ultimate Ozark Watercraft, Featherfoot Update, and Saving the Lightning Bugs
→ Join "The Holler" How do you preserve the heart of the Ozarks while inviting more people in? Welcome back to the Check Station: from campsite…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 183 - The Old Ozarks - Pie-Balds and Poetry (S1: E8)
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins... What exactly is a “bald knob”? Let's follow that winding road straight into the remarkable, overlooked…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 182 - Xieng Chanthavong - Why Striper Fishing on Ozark Lakes is So Challenging (and So Worth It)
→ Listen to Part 1 of Xieng's Story on The Holler When it comes to catching monster stripers on Beaver Lake, few know the patterns, pressure, and…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 181 - Mike Rusch - Can the Cycling Boom in the Ozarks be a Positive Step for Conservation?
The Ozarks are experiencing a cycling boom unlike anything we've seen before. But with new trails, booming tourism, and a rapidly changing landscape come big…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 180 - The Old Ozarks - Akard Whets a Banner (S1: E7)
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins... Long before we had Instagram call-outs or basketball court boasts, folks in the Ozarks had their own…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 179 - Dr. Grant Woods - This Deer Habitat Strategy is More Important than Food Plots (and Leads to Bigger Bucks) [Greatest Hits]
In this episode, we're calling back to our conversation with renowned wildlife biologist and land manager Dr. Grant Woods for a practical, science-based…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 178 - The Check Station - Saving 'Featherfoot' the Chicken, Protecting Smallmouth & Exploring the Ozark Identity Crisis
The Kyles are back at The Check Station with a chicken rescue mission, Colorado moose encounters, and some controversial reel reactions. They also spotlight…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 177 - The Old Ozarks - The Brogues and Brogans of the Irish Wilderness (S1: E6)
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins... Every now and then, a name on a map leads you down a rabbit hole of forgotten history. That’s what…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 176 - Jared Phillips - Who ACTUALLY Benefits from the Mountain Biking Culture in the Ozarks?
In this episode, historian, farmer, and University of Arkansas professor Dr. Jared Phillips returns to explore the deep and sometimes uncomfortable tension…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 175 - Jared Phillips - Why is Ozark Culture Being Defined by Outsiders?
In this episode, historian, homesteader, and University of Arkansas professor Dr. Jared Phillips joins us to unpack the misunderstood and rapidly changing…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 174 - The Old Ozarks - Nathan and Olive Light a Shuck (S1: E5)
Ever had to make a quick getaway? In the Ozarks (surprise surprise) we have our own unique way of saying that... In episode #5 of The Old Ozarks, Dr. Blevins…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 173 - Duane Hada & Tadd Fore - How to Hunt for Trophy Smallmouth in Shallow Summer Water
When it comes to chasing big smallmouth in skinny water, few know the game like Duane Hada and Tadd Fore. This episode takes you deep into the art of summer…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 172 - The Check Station - Brown Trout Debacle, Hammock vs. Tent Camping, & "The Devil in the Ozarks"
In this episode, we bring back the “Check Station” with a fresh new format—blending Ozark news, reel reactions, and controversial takes. IF you're a ozark…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 171 - The Old Ozarks - Long Knives and Native Lands (S1: E4)
Did you know? Before Oklahoma became Indian Territory, there was nearly an Indigenous homeland carved into the heart of the Ozarks. In this episode, Dr. Brooks…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 170 - Ralph Meeker of AGFC - How to Hold More Deer on Small Properties this Fall (Hint: It Starts this Summer)
In the heat of summer, deer hunting might be the last thing on your mind but it’s the perfect time to start preparing for fall. In this episode, Arkansas Game…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 169 - Chad Johnson - Choosing the Right Fly Even When the Hatch isn't Obvious
Fly fishing the White River is part science, part sorcery and no one unpacks that mystery better than Chad Johnson. In this episode, he breaks down the bug…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 168 - The Old Ozarks - Moses Austin Finds Lashins and Lavins of Lead (S1: E3)
When you hear the name “Austin” - Texas might come to mind but its roots run deep in the rocky soil of Missouri’s lead belt. In this third episode of The Old…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 167 - Chad Johnson - What Every Angler Should Know About White River Flows
If you’ve ever fished the White River and left wondering what just happened, this episode is your cheat sheet. In this tactical deep-dive, master guide Chad…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 166 - The Check Station - We've Been Building Something Behind the Scenes...
The Ozarks are changing—and so are we. In this Check Station episode, we open up about big changes, new shows, and the birth of a brand-new community called…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 165 - The Old Ozarks - The Whomper-Jawed Ozarks (S1: E2)
In this second episode of The Old Ozarks, Dr. Brooks Blevins tackles one of the trickiest questions in regional history: where exactly is the Ozarks—and who…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 164 - Jackson Butt - Kings River Tactics to Win the 2025 Smallmouth Shootout (via The Mayfly Project)
In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, local angler and tournament co-director Jackson Butt joins the crew for a deep dive into the upcoming Mayfly Project…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 163 - Bo Brown - Could You Survive Out in the Ozark Wilderness Alone? Primitive Tools, Cordage Techniques, and Fire Methods
If you were dropped into the Ozark wilderness with nothing but your hands—could you survive? In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, survival expert and author…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 162 - The Old Ozarks - What's in a Name? (S1: E1)
In this debut episode of The Old Ozarks, historian Brooks Blevins dives deep into the origin of that peculiar word—“Ozark”—and charts its journey across maps…
The Ozark PodcastIntroducing: The Old Ozarks with Brooks Blevins
Drumroll please, we have a new show: The Old Ozarks... ...is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 161 - Bo Brown - The Man Who Wrote the Book on Foraging the Ozarks...Literally
You can’t take a step in the Ozarks without walking on food—but most of us don’t even realize it. In this rich and thought-provoking episode of The Ozark…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 160 - LIVE from Turkey Camp: First Birds, Morel Boosts, and A Triple-Bearded Gobbler
Turkey camp in the Ozarks is about a lot more than tagging a bird—it's about camaraderie, chasing gobbles at sunrise, laughing around the fire, and learning…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 159 - Neosho Bass Panel Presentation: Science, Management, & Culture (from Historic Cane Hill Arkansas)
In the heart of the Ozarks lies a native fish species that tells a bigger story—not just about streams and scales, but about identity, ecology, and cultural…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 158 - Sam Hallam & Bear Newcomb - Overcoming the Most Common Mistake of Turkey Hunting + PREVIEW of Turkey Camp
When the redbuds bloom and the gobbles echo down the hollers, spring has officially arrived in the Ozarks. In this episode, we sit down with seasoned Turkey…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 157 - Ben Levin - Identifying Ideal Smallmouth Habitat + the BEST Rivers and Streams in Arkansas & Missouri
Smallmouth bass are more than just a native fish—they’re the true emblem of Ozark angling. In this episode, we reconnect with expert fly fishing guide Ben…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 156 - Ben Levin - Mastering the White River Caddis Hatch: When & How to Catch Trophy Brown Trout
The White River in Arkansas has quietly become one of the premier caddis hatch destinations in the country. In this episode, fly fishing legend Ben Levin joins…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 155 - Jon Conklin - Hook into Some Crappie and Striper this Spring + GIVEAWAY
As spring hits full swing in the Ozarks, it's prime time to hit the water—and in this episode of The Ozark Podcast, guide Jon Conklin of FishOn Guide Service…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 154 - Jon Conklin - The Best Kept Secrets of Walleye Fishing: An Expert Guide's Tips for Timing, Baits, and Gear
Walleye fishing in the Ozarks is often overlooked - but for those who know where to look and how to fish for them, the rewards are well worth the effort. In…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 153 - Dr. Brooks Blevins - Rediscovering Forgotten Figures, Untold Stories, and the "Unique" Ozark Dialect + ANNOUNCEMENT
What makes the Ozarks truly special? Is it the rolling hills, the winding rivers, or the deep-rooted traditions passed down for generations? In this episode of…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 152 - A Controversial Arkansas Gumbo Recipe [REEL REACTIONS]
If you love the intersection of wild food, land stewardship, and outdoor adventure, this episode is for you. Learn how to use bear fat in your cooking, forage…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 151 - Daniel Mallette (PART 2) - Boost Turkey Habitat with these PROVEN Land Management Tactics
For hunters and land managers, success isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation and stewardship. In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, Daniel Mallette of…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 150 - Daniel Mallette (PART 1) - Prescribed Burning Methods to Improve Hunting and Wildlife Habitat
Fire is often feared, but when used correctly, it’s one of the most powerful tools for land and wildlife management. On this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 149 - Tim Hammer (PART 2) - Foraging: Uncovering Wild Foods that Reconnect Us with the Land
In PART 2 of this episode, we continue our conversation with Tim Hammer of Homegrown Native Foods, exploring how responsible foraging can benefit both people…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 148 - Tim Hammer (PART 1) - Foraging: Unlocking the Ozark's Hidden Pantry of Wild Foods
In PART 1 of this episode, we sit down with Tim Hammer of Homegrown Native Foods to explore the abundance of wild, native ingredients thriving in the Ozarks…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 147 - Embracing the Ozark Membership Mentality
We've just finished 'diving' into two cave episodes with Tom Aley and Dave Woods of Ozark Underground Laboratory and now we're back with an internal episode…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 146 - Dave Woods of OUL - Exploring an Underground Ozark Cave (PART 2)
We're back with Dave Woods of The Ozark Underground Laboratory (OUL) after we've literally gone down into the cave! This episode dives into the creatures of…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 145 - Tom Aley of OUL - Exploring an Underground Ozark Cave (PART 1)
We're visiting with the world's leading karst expert, Tom Aley of The Ozark Underground Laboratory (OUL) to discuss the importance of groundwater and its…
The Ozark PodcastMerry Christmas! Here's What Happening in 2025...
It's Christmas Day! We hope you're enjoying some time off with friends and family. 2024 was an amazing year, and we've got some exciting news for 2025...Merry…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 144 - Dr. Brooks Blevins - What is the Regional Identity of the Ozarks? (Regifted)
We've combined our 2-PART discussion with Dr. Brooks Blevins into one MEGA episode, re-gifted for you this Christmas Season. This is one of our most asked…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 143 - Russten Johnson - Late Season is Where the Big Bucks Are? + Hunting Blind Setup
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 142 - Chef Erin Rowe (PART 2) - The Recipes of High South Ozark Cuisine
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 141 - Chef Erin Rowe (PART 1) - The Roots of High South Ozark Cuisine
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 140 - Kyle Plunkett - Big Buck Stories from Hunting the Rut
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 139 - Drew Atkinson - The Secret to Hunting "Rut Funnels"
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 138 - The Ethics of Baiting Game Animals + REEL REACTIONS
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 137 - Ozark Folklore, Cryptids, and Superstitions
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 136 - Jason Isabelle of MDC - What if Hunter Numbers Continue to Decline?
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 135 - Ralph Meeker of AGFC - What if Deer Hunters Stopped Hunting?
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 134 - Ethan Kemna of Genuine Pursuit - Success on Public Land in the Early Season + Mobile Setup Reveal
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…
The Ozark PodcastEp. 133 - Winston & Zach Sommers - Harvesting a 170" Ozark Mountain Buck on Private Land
Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cellular trail cameras with A.I. integration Acres - Value…