Aaron Watson: “I’d Rather Hunt a Spike With My Kids Than a World-Class Elk Alone

Texan and Country artist, Aaron Watson joins the Country Outdoors Podcast with Mary O’Neill Phillips for a conversation about family, hunting traditions, and building a career in country music on his own terms. Watson has spent more than two decades proving that independent country artists can succeed without following the traditional Nashville path. In this episode, he shares why time spent hunting with his kids matters more than trophies, how the outdoors has shaped his perspective on life, and what authenticity really means in modern country music. From raising a family around hunting culture to staying grounded in faith and values while navigating the music industry, Aaron talks about the experiences that have defined both his career and his life outside the spotlight. In this episode • Aaron Watson on hunting with his kids • Why family matters more than trophies • Building an independent country music career • Faith, values, and life on the road • The connection between country music and the outdoors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tomorrow on the Country Outdoors Podcast, independent country artist Aaron Watson joins us for a conversation about doing things your own way — in music and in life. From the meaning of being an “outlaw” in country music to why he’d rather hunt with his boys than chase trophies alone, Aaron shares the mindset that’s guided his career outside the Nashville machine. Full episode premieres tomorrow at 6 PM CST. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Country Outdoors Podcast, Mary O’Neill Phillips sits down with Hunter and Chase Farrior of Spring Legion and Austin Collins, founder of the Quack Shack Podcast — three young hunters building brands around their passion for turkey hunting, duck hunting, and the traditions of the outdoors. Hunter and Chase Farrior are the brothers behind Spring Legion, a brand rooted in the history and culture of turkey hunting. Hunter is also the author of Ballad of a Turkey Hunter and Any Given Spring Morning. Hunter draws inspiration from the storytelling traditions of legendary turkey hunters like Tom Kelly and Gene Nunnery and wants to be a bridge to the next generation of turkey hunters. Together, the Farrior brothers are committed to honoring the heritage of turkey hunting while helping preserve its future through conservation and storytelling. Austin Collins is the voice behind the Quack Shack Podcast, a waterfowl hunting platform built around his passion for duck hunting and the culture that surrounds it. Through Quack Shack, Austin travels, records conversations with other hunters and outdoor entrepreneurs, and tells the stories behind the people, brands, and traditions that make up the waterfowl world. Beyond the hunt itself, Austin is also a husband and father who believes the outdoors should be something worth passing down. For him, building Quack Shack isn’t just about duck season — it’s about creating a community and a legacy that his kids can one day be part of. In this conversation, they discuss: • The traditions and history behind turkey hunting culture• Building grassroots hunting brands from scratch• The influence of writers like Tom Kelly and Gene Nunnery• The role of conservation in the future of turkey and waterfowl hunting• Why storytelling and podcasts are shaping the next generation of hunters• The passion that drives hunters every spring and fall For these hunters, the goal isn’t just building a brand — it’s preserving the traditions of the outdoors and creating something worth passing down to the next generation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded live from the NWTF Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, this special episode of the Country Outdoors Podcast brings together some of the most exciting voices in country music and the outdoor world. Host Mary O’Neill Phillips sits down with a lineup of guests who share a passion for hunting, conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle. From stories on the road in country music to conversations about turkey hunting, conservation, faith, and the future of outdoor media, this episode captures the energy of one of the biggest gatherings in the hunting community. Guests in this episode include: • Drake White – sharing his story of faith, resilience, and finding purpose through hardship. • Colby Acuff – talking music, Western roots, and the outdoors. • Sydnie Wells – discussing hunting, conservation, and the next generation of outdoor media. • Tyler Booth – on traditional country music and life outdoors. • Leon Majcen – sharing insights from the shooting sports world. • Kasey Tyndall – discussing her music career, time on the road, and her connection to the outdoors. Filmed on location at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention, this episode highlights the intersection of country music, hunting culture, conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle—all from the heart of one of the outdoor industry’s most iconic events. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded live from the NWTF Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, this special episode of Country Outdoors brings together leading voices from country music, hunting, storytelling, and conservation — all from the floor of one of the most important gatherings in the outdoor industry. This live podcast captures conversations with artists, filmmakers, advocates, and conservation leaders who share a common passion for the outdoors and preserving hunting traditions for future generations. Featured Guests Michael Ray Country music artist and lifelong outdoorsman Michael Ray discusses balancing life on the road with his passion for hunting and why the outdoors continues to play a central role in his life. Sam Soholt Public land advocate and filmmaker Sam Soholt joins the conversation to talk about conservation responsibility, protecting access to public lands, and the future of hunting in America. Ben O’Brien Outdoor storyteller and conservation communicator Ben O’Brien shares perspectives on modern hunting culture and the importance of authentic storytelling within the outdoor community. HunterGirl Country music artist HunterGirl discusses her connection to hunting, faith, and family, and how her outdoor upbringing continues to influence her career and music. Mo Pitney Traditional country artist Mo Pitney talks about songwriting, heritage, and the deep relationship between country music, rural values, and outdoor life. William Toll Filmmaker William Toll discusses conservation storytelling and the role film plays in documenting and protecting America’s natural resources. Matthew H. McGee and James B. Lawson — The Buffalo River Project Representing the Field & Stream short film The Buffalo River Project, McGee and Lawson share the conservation story behind protecting one of America’s most significant waterways. About This Episode The NWTF Convention represents more than hunting. It is a gathering of people committed to conservation, community, and the preservation of outdoor traditions. This episode highlights the conversations and stories shaping the future of hunting, conservation, and country music culture today. Recorded live at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Kelley and Brittany Kelley join us live at NWTF to talk Tribe Kelley’s Mossy Oak camo launch, Made in USA apparel, Florida Georgia Line reunion rumors, solo music, faith, fishing tournaments, and life in the outdoors. We dive into Brian Kelley’s sport fishing obsession (blue marlin, SFC League, Gulf Coast Cowboys), growing up hunting in Georgia and Florida, turkey season plans, deer camp memories, and what it really means to stick to your values in today’s world. Brittany shares the story behind Tribe Kelley’s American-made clothing brand, their Mossy Oak collaboration, and how faith has shaped their journey over the last five years. We also address the Florida Georgia Line reunion speculation, Brian’s solo single “93 in the Keys,” conspiracy theory culture, and what both Brian and Brittany want to be remembered for. This is an unfiltered, faith-forward, outdoors conversation from the NWTF show floor — hunting, fishing, music, business, marriage, and God at the center of it all. If you love turkey hunting, blue marlin fishing, Mossy Oak camo, country music, Florida lifestyle, and real conversations about faith and family — this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Mobile, Alabama to millions of streams, Muscadine Bloodline has built one of the most loyal fanbases in country music—without playing by Nashville’s rules. In this episode of the Country Outdoors Podcast, Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton break down their journey from college bar gigs and cover bands to gold records, sold-out shows, and full creative independence. We talk songwriting, staying independent in a major-label world, building a career from the ground up, and why owning your music matters more than chasing charts. The conversation also dives into their Southern roots, faith, family, and deep connection to the outdoors—turkey hunting, fishing, Mossy Oak culture, and how time outside keeps them grounded in a demanding industry. This is a real, behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to build something lasting—on your own terms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Country Outdoors, Mary O’Neill Phillips sits down with Adam Sanders — number-one songwriter, avid outdoorsman, and winner of The Road — to talk about the moment years of grinding finally paid off. Adam breaks down how he approached the competition differently than any other artist, why connecting with the audience mattered more than out-singing the room, and how he strategically built performances to win a fan-voted national television show. He also opens up about life in Nashville, being pigeonholed as a songwriter, and why he ultimately chose to turn down a record deal after winning. Beyond the stage, Adam shares his deep connection to the outdoors — from chasing whitetails and turkeys across the South and Midwest to finding peace and clarity in the woods. The conversation takes a powerful turn as he reflects on faith, letting go of control, and learning to trust God with the timing of his career. This is a raw, honest look at success, patience, and staying grounded — in music, hunting, and life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A heartfelt story of resilience, faith, and outdoor adventures that will inspire hunters and anglers alike. Mary O’Neill Phillips sits down with veterinarian Emmy Patterson-Wood to explore how a life rooted in the outdoors shapes resilience, purpose, and compassion. Emmy reflects on growing up in a large, active family, where camping, hiking, and fishing trips fostered her love for wildlife and animals. She shares how caring for a sibling with special needs strengthened her empathy—lessons that carry over to both veterinary work and the hunting and fishing world. Listeners will hear Emmy’s experiences balancing college rodeo, motherhood, and a career in veterinary medicine while navigating profound grief after losing her husband. She discusses how faith, community support, and time in nature helped her heal, highlighting the therapeutic power of pets and the outdoors for managing stress and loss. For hunters, anglers, and outdoors enthusiasts, Emmy’s story offers practical inspiration: finding purpose through challenges, trusting the process, and valuing relationships with family, friends, and the natural world. From deer stands to fishing trips, this conversation underscores how outdoor pursuits can anchor us in times of hardship and remind us to embrace life’s joys. Follow the show for more weekly hunting and fishing conversations that explore life, resilience, and the outdoors. Presented by: Field & Stream Get more from Field & Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/ Get to know your host, Mary O’Neill Phillips: https://www.countryoutdoors.com              Join the F&S 1871 Club and experience a membership dedicated to the outdoor culture of sporting traditions, storytelling, and the conservation of our lands: https://www.fieldandstream.com/1871-club/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What you feed your dog can shape performance, longevity, and recovery far beyond genetics. Serious hunters and anglers know a good dog is more than a companion. A bird dog in the field, a retriever in icy water, or a cattle dog putting in miles all day demands nutrition that matches the work. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how canine nutrition actually supports stamina, joint health, digestion, and long-term soundness. Animal nutrition scientist Kathy Gross breaks down why inflammation sits at the center of many common canine issues, from arthritis to digestive trouble, and how diet choices can either amplify or manage those problems. The discussion explores protein, fat, and carbohydrate balance for active dogs, explaining why endurance dogs, sprint-style working dogs, and sporting breeds all burn fuel differently. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of gut health and the microbiome, why frequent food switching creates digestive chaos, and how antibiotics, stress, and allergies can derail a dog’s performance. There’s also a practical look at organ meats, omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and electrolytes, and why these matter for recovery after long days in the field. Rather than chasing trends or marketing hype, this episode emphasizes evidence-based feeding strategies rooted in animal science and real-world field experience. It’s an insider-level conversation that helps hunters and outdoorsmen make smarter decisions for dogs that work hard, travel often, and deserve to stay healthy season after season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices