Join host Dana Dykema as she sits down with Madie Demaske at Sheep Show 2026. Madie is a dynamic hunter-lawyer, advocating for hunters' rights through her role at Safari Club International. As a key member of SCI's litigation team, Madie delves into her day-to-day responsibilities, which include crafting legal briefs, engaging in court filings, and providing public commentary. Her work, particularly focused on Alaska, involves collaboration with agencies like the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service, highlighting her dedication to wildlife conservation and hunting rights.

Madie's path to becoming a prominent figure in conservation law began with an internship at the Wild Sheep Foundation, where she discovered the possibility of building a career around her passion for hunting and conservation. Her involvement with Women Hunt further underscores her commitment to expanding access and mentorship for women in the hunting community. Madie emphasizes the importance of mentorship in retaining and growing the hunting community.

In this episode, Madie also shares her trailblazing experiences, including being the first woman to travel to Morocco for an Aoudad hunt and to import the animals to the United States. Her stories from international hunts in Morocco, Tajikistan, and Mongolia illustrate the cultural and ethical dimensions of hunting, emphasizing its role in food systems and conservation funding.

Madie's personal journey, rooted in a family legacy of hunting, adds a personal lens to her professional advocacy, as she continues to lead and inspire future generations in the hunting and conservation space.

This description captures Madie's multifaceted role and her inspiring journey, appealing to listeners interested in conservation, hunting, and women's leadership.

In this week's episode of the Ignite Podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with the inspiring Jana Waller-Behr at Sheep Show 2026. Jana, a seasoned hunter and television host, shares her lifelong passion for hunting, which began in her childhood under the guidance of her father. She recounts her early experiences in the duck blinds and pheasant fields, which ignited a passion that has spanned over five decades.

Jana discusses her journey into the hunting industry, highlighting her transition from a career in the financial sector to becoming a prominent figure in outdoor television. She shares the story behind her show, Skullbound, and its evolution over the years, including the recent launch of her YouTube channel, Skullbound with Jana Waller Bear. This new platform will feature a comprehensive collection of her work, including episodes from the past 16 seasons, shorts, and how-to videos.

The ladies also delve into the topic of health, biohacking, fitness and good food. It takes a lot of physical fitness for Jana to hunt as much as she does so Dana asked her to share how she stays fit and the things she does to make sure when she's in the field, her body will be strong.

Dana and Jana also delve into personal stories, discussing the challenges and triumphs of their hunting adventures. Jana's anecdotes about her most memorable hunts, including her sheep hunt and grizzly bear expedition, offer listeners a glimpse into the thrilling and often emotional experiences that define her career.

This episode is a testament to Jana Waller-Behr's passion for hunting, her dedication to conservation, and her role as a trailblazer for women in the outdoor industry. Her stories inspire and encourage listeners to pursue their passions and embrace the adventures that life offers.

You can follow Jana on Instagram at @skullboundtv and follow her new YouTube channel at @SkullBound_TV

Summary

In this episode of the Ignite podcast, host Dana Dykema sits down with Gray Thornton, the President and CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation. They discuss the aftermath of the Sheep Show, the importance of mentorship in hunting, and the transformative power of the Wild Sheep Foundation's programs. Gray shares his personal journey into the hunting community, emphasizing the significance of relationships and inclusivity. The conversation highlights the foundation's impact on conservation efforts and the excitement surrounding the upcoming 50th anniversary Sheep Show.

Takeaways

The Sheep Show is a significant event for the Wild Sheep Foundation, marking a time of reflection and planning for the future.
Gray Thornton has dedicated 18 years to the Wild Sheep Foundation, focusing on conservation and community engagement.
The Wild Sheep Foundation has raised over $70 million for conservation efforts in the last decade.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in introducing new hunters to the community and ensuring the continuation of hunting traditions.
The hunting community is characterized by strong relationships and a sense of family among its members.
The transformative experiences of participants in programs like Women Hunt highlight the impact of mentorship and community support.
Hunting is not just a sport; it involves hard work, dedication, and a deep connection to nature.
The Wild Sheep Foundation emphasizes inclusivity and welcomes all individuals interested in conservation and hunting.
Gray Thornton's personal journey into hunting began with a mentor who guided him through the early stages of his hunting career.
The future of the Wild Sheep Foundation looks bright with ongoing planning for the 50th anniversary Sheep Show.

Titles

Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation
The Journey of Gray Thornton

Chapters

00:00 The Aftermath of Sheep Show
07:23 Gray Thornton's Journey in Conservation
15:39 From Corporate to Conservation: A Career Shift
21:50 Building a Community: The Wild Sheep Foundation
29:53 The Impact of Membership and Fundraising
35:52 The Cultural Side of Hunting
47:07 The Impact of Mentorship
49:42 Memorable Hunting Experiences
01:06:30 The Challenges and Rewards of Hunting
01:09:48 The Power of Partnership in Conservation