Mike is joined by Ben Fairbanks, the Archery Education Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VA DWR), to break down everything you need to know about the upcoming 2026 Archery Open, coming January 10th to Richmond, VA.

Ben tells us what participants can expect at this year's event, including competition classes, pay outs, new features, youth involvement, education initiatives, and why the Archery Open continues to grow as one of Virginia's premier archery gatherings. Whether you're a seasone bowhunter, a competitive shooter, or a family looking to get involved in archery for the first time, this episode will get you fired up for January 10th!

https://dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open/

#huntingpodcast

In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Brady, current interim and past president of the North Carolina Bowhunters Association (NCBA), for an in-dpeth look at the organization's rich history, traditions, and impact on the bowhunting community including a touching story of the organization is rallying together to help one of their own.

https://ncbowhunters.wildapricot.org/

Jamie walk us through the NCBA's origins and how it has grown into a powerful force for conservation, education, and ethical bowhunting over the past 5 decades.We also highlight the 50th anniversary celebration, featuring legendary bowhunter and outdoor icon Tom Miranda as the guest speaker.

Jamie shares his personal journey in archery, including receiving the prestigious Fred Bear Award, one of the highest honors in the NCBA. We also dive into the NCBA's efforts to get youth involved in archery, fostering the next generation ethical hunters nd outdoor enthusiasts.

From charitable initiatives to community outreach, the NCBA continues to lead the way in philanthropy within the outdoor world-and Jamie gives us an inside look at the many ways their work is making a difference across North Carolina.

If you love bowhunting, conservation, or stories that inspire, this is an episode that you won't want to miss.

In this episode, Mike sits down with Jason Schmitt, the events coordinator with Hunters for the Hungry, an incredible organization helping to provide millions of meals to families in need across Virginia. Jason breks down exactly how the program works, how hunters can donate venison, how anyone can contribute financial support, and why community involvement matters more than ever.

We also cover the full calendar of events, raffles, and fundraising opportunities that help keep the mission alive. Whether you're a hunter, conservationist, or someone who simply cares about helping others, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Of course, we can't sign off without diving into Jason's YouTube channel, Struttin Obsessions, where he shares hun ts, outdoor adventures, and educational content that celebrates the lifestyle we all love.

https://h4hungry.org/