Driftwood Outdoors Podcast

Brandon Butler and Lauren "Big Fish" Plunkett interview Kevin Morlock, owner and operator of Indigo Guide Service. Indigo Guide Service has offered guided fishing trips on West Michigan’s rivers for over twenty years. These rivers include the Pere Marquette River, Manistee, White, and Muskegon, where they target trout, steelhead, and salmon. They've also guided the flats of Beaver Island in the summer for over fifteen years, fishing for carp, smallmouth bass, and pike. Topics Discussed: Pere Marquette, chuck-n-duck fishing, Steelhead trout, walking across Spain with his wife, Spanish cuisine, culture, topography, and wildlife, building a lifestyle of no regrets, taking chances, unplugging from the news, upcoming adventures, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Indigo Guide Service Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler interviews Captain Frank Campbell, Niagara Region Charter Service guide. Frank is a full time guide with over 25 years of guiding experience on Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the Niagara River. He has been featured on numerous television shows including In-Fisherman, Keith Warren Outdoors, O’Neil’s Outside, Bob Redfern Outdoors, Mid-West Outdoors, and Angling the Great Lakes along with the CBS Morning Show. He has also been featured in media print for several magazines including In-Fisherman, Outdoor Life, Fishing Facts, Salmon Trout & Steelheader Magazine, Great Lakes Angler, New York Outdoors, Lake Ontario Outdoors as well as ESPN Outdoors.com. Topics Discussed: New Director of Missouri Department of Conservation, first afternoon turkey in Missouri, guiding and tourism in Niagara, AGLOW Conference, Freshwater Fishery in Niagara, The Great Lakes, regional smallmouth fishing advice, keeper regulations and etiquette, guiding perks and challenges, rod setups, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Niagara Region Charter Service Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan "Shags" McLeod interview Jason Smith, Spoonbill World Record Holder and owner of Smiths Fishing Adventures. Jason has dedicated most of his time to learning and testing several techniques with fishing for Spoonbill on Lake of the Ozarks and Truman Lake using the most up-to-date electronics. "Going beyond the old school ways of fishing has brought more fish into my boat than I could have ever imagined. These techniques better allow me to put my guests on fish." Topics Discussed: Spoonbill world record details, live scoping, dipsy divers, blue catfish, walleye in the Ozarks, how to find catfish, ways to clean and eat a spoonbill, paddlefish facts, snagging and trolling off a catfish boat, how he got into guiding from Chicago to Stockton, Mid Mo Youth Outdoors, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: MO Fishing Guide Smiths Fishing Adventures Jason's Cell: 573-268-4082 Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler interviews several special guests during the 2024 Conservation Day at the Capitol. Conservation Day was created by Brandon Butler, Nathan "Shags" McLeod, Trevor Morgan, and David Calandro. It is an annual event held at the Missouri Capitol, promoting and supporting our natural resources and outdoor heritage. Citizens and legislators learn about the diverse outdoor passions of Missourians, and recognize our Legislators of the Year for their work protecting our outdoors during legislative session. Interviews: Tyler Schwartz - Executive Director of Conservation Federation of Missouri Kyna Iman - Jefferson City Lobbyist Rolla Middle School Choir Members Jacob Buxton - Legislative Liaison of Missouri Department of Conservation Andrea Smith - Associate Director of Development of Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Steve Jones - Vice President of Conservation Federation of Missouri Colton Zirkle - Executive Director of Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation For More Information: Share the Harvest Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Legislative Action Center Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation Misty Mountains Guiding Service Capital City Fly Fishers Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Gavin West, Marine Veteran, successful entrepreneur, Naval Academy graduate, Johns Hopkins graduate, and board member of Retrieving Freedom. Topics Discussed: Time in the service, Beaver Island, upper peninsula Michigan, smallmouth bass, carp, sight fishing redfish in the south, favorite fishing spots in Texas and Louisiana, Retrieving Freedom, Grouse habitat and conservation, favorite places traveled, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Retrieving Freedom Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview several MONASP attendees at the annual national tournament in Branson, Missouri. Archery is a sport for everyone! With Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP), students in grades 4-12 learn the skill of target archery beginning at the local level with the goal of qualifying for the state, national, and possibly, the world tournament both individually and as teams. This program promotes education, self-esteem and physical activity for Missouri students – regardless of age, size or physical ability. It’s a great team-building experience promoting skills and friendships that last a lifetime. Topics Discussed: Growth, support, and uniqueness of MONASP, the difference it has made in the lives of the kids, words from the people who make it happen, how and why to get involved, vendor involvement, and updates from former competitors. For More Information: MONASP Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation Donate to Heritage Foundation Cerakote Heritage Foundation Auction Page Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan "Shags" McLeod interview Taneycomo Fishing Legend, Duane Doty while fishing in the snow. "As a guide, my intent is more than just taking a person fishing for a day. I would rather educate clients about the water being fished, and the species pursued, and, then, by easing the learning curve, make it possible for them to return, without a guide, for a productive fishing trip. I enjoy and take great pride in sharing the information, knowledge, and experiences I have learned from my countless hours on the water to help others create great memories of fantastic fishing adventures." - Duane Doty Topics Discussed: Jig fishing, wood working and winter projects, the seasons and fishing in Taneycomo, changes and mainstays in media and marketing, Lauren "Big Fish" Plunkett loses a big fish, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Ozark Trout Runners Facebook Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler interviews Vietnam Veteran Ivan and his wife Mary Jo about the difference Retrieving Freedom Inc. has made in their lives. Retrieving Freedom, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization passionately committed to enhancing the lives of Veterans and children with autism through a specialized Service Dog training program. They breed and train chosen dogs that exhibit specific traits necessary to perform tasks to help these individuals, and believe in matching the dog to the client. Topics Discussed: How they came to realize a service dog could help, the difference Retrieving Freedom has made in both of their lives, the application and training process, the skills the service dogs acquire, Vietnam War, PTSD, how to get involved in the organization, and more. For More Information: Retrieving Freedom Inc. Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Roger Franklin, owner of Big Rock Candy Mountain. Big Rock Candy Mountain Retreat is your vacation destination! Just a mile and a half from the beautiful spring-fed Current River and the Ozark Scenic Riverways, it's home to the best fly fishing, floating and family fun in the state! BRCM is 18 acres of beautiful forest teaming with wildlife, fantastic bird watching, nights filled with fireflies and stories around the fire. You can spend your days filled with the many trail systems for horses, Side-by-Sides, hiking or biking, go kayaking, canoeing or floating and fishing on the current river. Topics Discussed: How BRCM came to be, 35 years of marriage and adventure, under-utilization and things to do on the Current River, how friendliness is contagious, live music and best shows, the very special new wedding venue, tourism in the Ozarks, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Big Rock Candy Mountain Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler, Nathan “Shags” McLeod, Savannah "Forever Fiance" Light, and Lauren Plunkett interview Blake Harris while fishing for keepers on Lake Taneycomo. Blake Harris, Captain at Excel Fishing Charters, is a well-versed angler who has years of fishing experience behind him. He loves taking people out to fish and giving them a great time on the waters. Topics Discussed: Blake's fancy new boat, using live bait, Brandon's love and fascination with bobber fishing, Gaston's, Taneycomo v. White River, the CFM Media Event, bets on the Superbowl, the love of guiding and things he has learned, St. Croix gear, mystery bait bucket, and more. For More Information: Excel Fishing Charters Excel Fishing Charters Facebook excelfishing046@gmail.com 636-295-1579 Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Tommy Bench, a returning podcast friend and Gasconade River Fishing Guide, as they spend an hour on the water chasing river monsters. Topics Discussed: Qualifications of a monster, baits he uses, Little Piney Tributary, guide service packages and cabins, Live Scope integration, targeting smallmouth, perks of being a guide, the love and regulations of turkey and deer hunting, catch and release mindset, best outdoor experiences, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Gasconade River Guide Service Ozark Smallmouth Anglers Gasconade River Guide Service Facebook Call or text 417-718-7716 Special thanks to: Living The Dream Outdoor Properties Superior Foam Insulation LLC Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Nathan “Shags” McLeod sits down with Eric Baker, Dave Downes, and Tim Flanner to recap the float trip and the incident that will never be forgotten. Splish splash. Eric's taking a bath in the river we no longer speak of. Topics Discussed: Having a famous son, professional wrestling, Down Syndrome, deer and turkey hunting, bobcat mounts, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Baker Banter Facebook Baker Banter Instagram Baker Banter Website Baker Banter TikTok Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan "Shags" McLeod interview Charles Bruce, local renaissance man whose fitness journey took him to a mountain top in Nepal. Topics Discussed: Starting his fitness journey, hiking Pikes Peak with his son, planning stages of his trip to Nepal, travel, language barriers, permits, and regulations abroad, using the most dangerous airport in the world, the brutal and beautiful Mount Everest Base Camp, bodily attrition, experiencing altitude sickness, close calls, future climbing plans, treasuring the bond he shares with his son, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Outdoor Himalayan Treks Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler interviews Kevin Orthman at the Shot Show in Las Vegas, NV. The SHOT Show is the once-a-year gathering place for the shooting, hunting and outdoor industry—manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, publishers and non-profit organizations. It’s where a passion for firearms, ammunition and outdoor equipment, plus the industry’s unified support for the Second Amendment, are on display. The SHOT Show generates millions of the dollars in revenue that funds NSSF programs and services that help “promote, protect and preserve” the shooting, hunting and outdoor industry. Among those programs are NSSF’s government relations efforts, Real Solutions® programs such as Project ChildSafe®, the industry’s firearm safety education program; Operation Secure Store®, which helps firearm retailers prevent thefts; Don’t Lie for the Other Guy®, which works to prevent illegal straw purchases; National Shooting Sports Month each August; and the +ONE® mentoring initiative. Topics Discussed: Moving to Japan during Covid, outdoor lifestyle, agriculture, sushi, and fly fishing in Japan, outdoor shop ideas, California living and politics, almond production and the environmental impact, shared stories of friendship and trouble making, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Shot Show Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Al Agnew, famous naturalist painter known for his work capturing wildlife and scenery in realistic detail, and who has also never eaten a brown trout. To view an Al Agnew painting is to be given the gift of a moment suspended in time. Whether on safari in Africa or roaming his native Ozarks, Agnew focuses all his attention on his subjects with the intensity of a predator. The sights, sounds, even the air that is breathed are channeled from his eye and mind to the stroke of his brush in exquisite detail. It is the culmination of his knowledge, love, and respect for the natural world, combined with his extraordinary skill of interpretation, that have made his work so effective in advocating the conservation of our natural resources, as well as earning him numerous honors and awards. Topics Discussed: Teaching K-12 art classes, the difference between talent and interest, transitioning from teaching to artistry, his love for smallmouth bass, fishing every Sunday with his father, favorite spots in the Ozarks to fish, advocating for catch and release, flies that he has made, "Save the Meramec" history, his love/hate relationship with gigging, Yellowstone Park, rafting mishaps, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Al Agnew Website Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Ryan Cokerham, Director of Merchandising with Midway USA. Ryan is an NRA Benefactor Member, avid hunter, angler, and an accomplished competitive shooter with multiple F-Class State Championship wins. When he’s not in the office, he can often be found on the lake, competing in, or helping run competitive long-range shooting matches. Topics Discussed: The 15 years he has been with MidwayUSA, the growth and evolution of the company, the new distribution facility, products, and selection, cutting edge technology they are using, receiving the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, competitive shooting, fishing DC Rogers Lake and Taneycomo, local turkey hunting, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: MidwayUSA Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Noah Brocato, Outdoor Education Center Specialist for Missouri Department of Conservation. Noah Brocato is a Missouri State University Wildlife Conservation graduate from Pacific, Missouri. His story is a wonderful example of the full circle of finding purpose in conservation, community, and life. From teaching to college sports, and back around to teaching-- he is now a respected mentor, teaching educational conservation courses across Missouri. Topics Discussed: Best wishes to Sara Parker Pauley, recapping holiday experiences of 2023, growing up in Pacific, Missouri, the full circle of his relationship with being a mentor, college sports and injuries, weirdest bait ever used, Montauk Park environment, North Fork of the White River experiences, shooting ranges MDC has to offer, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: Missouri Department of Conservation Education Courses Missouri Department of Conservation Hunting Education and more Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod interview Trey Dawson, Founder and Owner of BackyardK9 and Recovery Outdoors. Trey Dawson opens up about his personal journey through addiction and recovery. His hopes are to break down stigma and encourage conversations that can lead to support, healing, and ultimately, breaking the chains of addiction. Through the power of the outdoors, transparency, faith, and a few dad jokes, he shares his experience here. Topics Discussed: His journey through incarceration, addiction and sobriety, growing up in Gravois Mills and his early run ins with the law, the origin of Puppies for Parole and BackyardK9, his hopes for Recovery Outdoors, qualifying for Bass Master Kayak Tournament, his dog training schedule, New Year's Resolutions, mystery bait bucket and more. For More Information: BackyardK9 Recovery Outdoors Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler, Nathan “Shags” McLeod, and now Semi-Paid Pro Staffer Adam Voight take us on a month-to-month recap of 2023, sharing some of the good, some of the bad, and ALL of the outdoors. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from your friends at Driftwood Outdoors! Topics Discussed: The highlights from things that each of us have done this year, experiences that taught us something, the people we treasure, a few that we miss, the gratitude we share for our community and each other, what we are hoping to accomplish next year, and more! Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod celebrate Christmas with Eric Call, founder of Mid Mo Youth Outdoors and owner of Superior Spray Foam, LLC, while doing Meat Eater Trivia and exchanging gifts. Mid Mo Youth Outdoors was created to bring kids ages 9 to 16 years of age together and to provide them with the knowledge and understanding of outdoor gaming and survival skills. Topics Discussed: How Mid Mo Youth Outdoors was inspired, how it was built, the benefits of insulation, what's good for the bird is good for the herd, meat eater trivia and all the big words Eric knows, his bear hunt in Maine, mystery bait bucket and more. For more info: Mid Mo Youth Outdoors Superior Spray Foam, LLC Facebook Superior Spray Foam, LLC Website Connect with Driftwood Outdoors: Facebook Instagram Special thanks to: Doolittle Trailers Smithfly Rafts Scenic Rivers Taxidermy Email: info@driftwoodoutdoors.com