Raised in the Woods

Dive into the wilds of the Midwest as Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton explore the quirky world of outdoor adventures with guests like Captain Frogman and game bird ecologist Taylor Finger. Discover bizarre bird nesting habits atop skyscrapers and learn why goslings aren’t great at calculating heights. Get homesteader Sarah Marinus’ insights on companion planting […]

Sat Jul 4, 2026

44:01

Dive into the fascinating world of migratory bird management with Joel Kleefisch and his crew, featuring special insights from Wild Goose Chase and Migratory Bird Management. Learn how Border Collies are used to humanely herd nuisance geese, preventing urban chaos without harm. Explore the challenges and triumphs faced by bird enthusiasts like Taylor Finger, Wisconsin’s […]

Guest: Sarah Marenes

Sat Jun 27, 2026

44:01

Dive into the quirky world of frog gigging with the one and only James Cooper, Wisconsin’s sole frog gigging guide. Raised in Louisiana, James shares his unique journey from family traditions in the bayou to becoming the state’s ‘Captain Frog Boy.’ Learn about the art of frog gigging, its conservation significance, and the legal quirks […]

Sat Jun 20, 2026

44:01

The podcast dives into the rising number of women embracing the outdoors in the Midwest, discussing both triumphs and challenges they face. A panel including Danielle, Dave, and Joe explores how women hunters are transforming the landscape, despite obstacles like social media pressures and skepticism from traditionalists. The episode emphasizes fostering inclusivity and respect in hunting communities. Listeners are treated to a tantalizing discussion on wild game recipes, featuring venison goulash and a unique fusion dish with dashi broth. The hosts champion kindness and collaboration, urging everyone to choose positivity and support for one another in the great outdoors.

Sat Jun 13, 2026

44:01

The podcast dives into the pervasive impact of social media on our lives and the outdoors. Joel Kleefisch and guests like Chad Belding and Brittany Christensen discuss how social media blurs reality, causing generational shifts where kids struggle with interpersonal communication. They explore the contradiction of needing social media for business while yearning for genuine […]

Guest: Chad Belding

Sat Jun 6, 2026

44:01

Joel Kleefisch hosts a riveting episode featuring Chad Belding, national host of The Fowl Life, diving into the profound impact of hunting on personal networks and life experiences. Chad shares how the humble Mallard Duck connected him with fascinating people across diverse fields. The crew discusses the essence of manifestation, debating its role in success […]

Sat May 30, 2026

44:01

Joel Kleefisch hosts a lively episode featuring Eric Loebner from Wisconsin’s DNR and former Chief Warden Todd Schaller. They dive into outdoor adventures, wildlife management, and the joys of turkey hunting. Chef Lawton introduces a mouthwatering brunch dish—turkey toast with poached eggs, avocado, and pomegranate seeds. The discussion shifts to turkey camp cuisine, including a […]

Sat May 23, 2026

44:01

Get ready for a wild ride through the Midwest’s great outdoors with hosts Joel Kleefisch and Chef Ellie Lawton. This episode is a smorgasbord of turkey tales and culinary experiments. Special guests Eric Lobner and Todd Schaller from the Wisconsin DNR share insights on conservation, turkey hunting antics, and the challenges of adapting to political […]

Guests: Megan Salazar, Todd Schaller, Eric Lobner

Sat May 16, 2026

44:01

In this heartwarming episode, hosts Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton dive into the unexpected journey of Ashlyn Whitting, a former vegan who found love and hunting through her outdoorsman partner. Ashlyn shares how their relationship, rooted in mutual respect and open dialogue, led her to embrace hunting and culinary exploration. The episode also features Shelby […]

Guest: Shelby Christensen

Sat May 9, 2026

43:00

Many hunters share a similar origin story: an older family member or other trusted adult ushers a young child out into the wilderness to teach them the ropes. The kid might be excited by the magic of nature or the thrill of the hunt, or they may not even want to be there at first. […]

Guests: Megan Salazar, Sarah Marenes, Shelby Christensen

Sat May 2, 2026

43:58