Tennessee WildCast

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
  • 4.8 (60)
  • Wilderness
  • Updated Weekly

Tennessee WildCasts are weekly podcasts brought to you in both video and audio formats. These podcasts provide information on the mission of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, outdoor events and activities from hunting, fishing, boating and just about anything Outdoors. Come back each week and thanks for tuning in!

  1. 5d ago

    #500 WildCast Celebrates 500 Episodes: Mystery Guests, Iconic Moments, and Wild Tales!

    Celebrate a milestone with us—Tennessee WildCast has officially reached its 500th episode! What began as a simple idea back in 2016 has grown into an award‑winning podcast and radio show featured on 36 stations across Tennessee. In this special episode, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Don King welcome every regional information coordinator who has helped shape WildCast through the years. Amy Spencer, Barry Cross, Mime Barnes, and Matt Cameron step out from behind the microphone to share their personal journeys, their love for the outdoors, and the work they do every day on behalf of Tennessee’s wildlife. This episode reflects on the roots of WildCast, from the early inspiration of Doug Markham to memorable moments interviewing Bill Dance on the banks of Kentucky Lake, wildlife rehab tales, emotional interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes conservation stories that rarely reach the public. Together, the team looks back at standout episodes—from snapping turtles and spotted skunks to YouTube personalities, country artists, and meaningful interviews that have saved lives. It’s also a moment to honor the people who make the agency shine: educators, wildlife officers, biologists, communicators, and the passionate crews behind fisheries, biodiversity, and WMAs. WildCast has always been about showcasing the heart of TWRA—its mission, its people, and the wildlife they protect. Thank you for 500 episodes of listening, watching, and supporting Tennessee’s outdoors. Here’s to the next 500!

    #500 WildCast Celebrates 500 Episodes: Mystery Guests, Iconic Moments, and Wild Tales!

  2. Sep 14

    #499 Tennessee River Basin Network: Partners for the River’s Future

    Tennessee WildCast hits the road for a special on‑location episode from Henry Horton State Park, where host Jason Harmon sits down with a remarkable group of partners working to protect one of the most biodiverse river systems in North America. This episode dives into the heart of the Tennessee River Basin Network (TRBN), highlighting the collaboration, science, and passion behind efforts to conserve the Tennessee River System. Park Manager Shaun Rainone opens the show with exciting updates on major improvements at Henry Horton, including a new visitor center, restaurant, archery and mountain biking expansions, disc golf additions, and a highly anticipated lodge expected to open next year. From there, the conversation shifts to biodiversity as TWRA’s Jason Miller explains why the Duck River is a national hotspot for aquatic species and how conservation teams monitor and protect rare mussels and fish. Guests Shannon O’Quinn of TVA and Daniel West of TRBN break down how the network formed, why collaboration across seven states matters, and how local stories, students, agencies, and citizen scientists all play a role in caring for the river system. The episode also features filmmaker and long‑distance paddler John Guider, who recounts unforgettable river adventures and shares insights from paddling the full Duck River for an upcoming documentary. Listeners will hear how partnerships, science, and community involvement are shaping the future of the Tennessee River Basin and how anyone can get involved. Don’t miss this deep dive into conservation, connection, and the rivers that make Tennessee special.

    #499 Tennessee River Basin Network: Partners for the River’s Future

  3. Sep 7

    #498 The Woodpecker Comeback: Inside the RCW Restoration Story

    Take a quick trip into Tennessee’s wild side as Tennessee WildCast brings you the latest updates on the return of the red‑cockaded woodpecker. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Mimi Barnes welcome guests David Haney (TWRA) and Sam King (TDEC) to break down the progress of this major restoration effort at Savage Gulf. From habitat management to planting future pine forests, the team explains how partners across the state are working together to bring this once‑lost species back to Tennessee. You’ll hear how RCWs build their tree cavities, why they need mature shortleaf pines, what other species benefit from this habitat work, and how experts capture and relocate birds safely. Plus, learn about the partnerships fueling this project, updates from the Biodiversity Summit, and ways you can support conservation — including some very comfy merch. If you love wildlife, conservation wins, or just enjoy learning something new about Tennessee’s outdoors, this episode is a must‑listen. Tune in, share with your fellow nature fans, and follow along as this historic comeback unfolds.

    #498 The Woodpecker Comeback: Inside the RCW Restoration Story

  4. Aug 31

    #497 From President’s Island to Shelby Forest: Life on the River’s Edge

    Step back into the heart of West Tennessee with this week’s Tennessee WildCast as we explore one of the state’s most iconic landscapes—Shelby Forest. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Amy Spencer bring listeners inside the stories, challenges, and everyday adventures of the team that manages more than 35,000 acres of wild land stretching from the Mississippi River to the Chickasaw Bluffs. Recorded at the National Bird Dog Museum, this episode introduces Chris Park, Austin Bibb, and Kenny Lepard—three dedicated TWRA staffers who have built their careers (and sometimes second careers!) around caring for wildlife, stewarding habitat, and supporting Tennessee’s hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. From high‑stakes waterfowl management to the legendary President’s Island quota hunt, the crew shares what it really takes to protect habitat, plant vital food plots, battle unpredictable river levels, and keep a complex network of wildlife areas functioning year‑round. Hear the inside stories—from planting corn three times thanks to flooding, to tracking daily river gauges, to managing impoundments that operate around the clock. You’ll also get a behind‑the‑scenes look at how they work with hunters across the state, maintain partnerships with the park system, and adapt to challenges like wild hogs that have reshaped the landscape since 2011. Whether you love duck hunting, birding, deer season, or simply exploring Tennessee’s natural spaces, this episode delivers a deeper appreciation for the people protecting them. Tune in, learn something new, and rediscover why the call of Tennessee’s wild places keeps bringing us back.

    #497 From President’s Island to Shelby Forest: Life on the River’s Edge

  5. Aug 24

    #496 National Bird Dog Museum: History, Heritage & Legendary Dogs

    In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Amy Spencer take listeners inside one of Tennessee’s most unique treasures—the National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction. This 30,000‑square‑foot facility is home to more than 40 breeds of pointing, flushing, and retrieving dogs, and preserves more than 150 years of bird‑dog history, field‑trial tradition, and sporting‑dog heritage. Jason and Amy sit down with Rex Brotherton, a lifelong West Tennessee local whose deep ties to the area’s bird‑hunting culture make him the perfect guide for exploring the museum’s origins, its archives, and the incredible artifacts inside. From foundational sires like Count Noble to historic trophies, handler saddles, artwork, taxidermy collections, and extensive breed Hall of Fame exhibits, Rex shares stories that bring the museum’s rich past to life. Listeners will also hear how the Bird Dog Foundation, a 501(c)(3), keeps the museum thriving through donations, endowments, and community support—ensuring future generations can discover the legacy of field trials and sporting dogs. Amy highlights the museum’s impact on field trips, research, and youth engagement, while Rex reflects on how preserving this heritage helps keep bird hunting traditions alive in a rapidly changing world. Whether you're a dog lover, history buff, sporting enthusiast, or simply curious about Tennessee’s outdoor culture, this episode is full of reasons to make the National Bird Dog Museum your next destination. Tune in for stories, history, and inspiration—straight from the heart of West Tennessee’s bird‑dog country.

    #496 National Bird Dog Museum: History, Heritage & Legendary Dogs

  6. Aug 17

    #495 Straight‑Wall, Bait Permits & More: Your Guide to This Year’s Big Changes

    This week on Tennessee WildCast, hosts Jason and Don welcome Dr. Dan Grove of UT’s School of Natural Resources and Dr. Adam Edge, TWRA’s Deer Program Coordinator, for a deep dive into everything hunters need to know before deer season kicks off. With the new Hunting & Fishing Guide now available, the team breaks down what’s changed, what’s new, and what hunters should expect across Tennessee this fall. The episode highlights the updated deer season dates, the introduction of the straight‑wall cartridge opportunity during the muzzleloader season, and important updates within the CWD Management Zone. The crew will also unpack the newly created Deer Bait Privilege Permit—explaining who needs it, where it applies, and how to use it responsibly to protect wildlife and minimize disease risks. Listeners also get clarity on feeder types, baiting best practices, and how wildlife health factors—from chronic wasting disease to hemorrhagic disease—are influencing management decisions statewide. The team shares encouraging news, noting strong fawn recruitment, improved deer body conditions, and a promising outlook for deer activity thanks to last year’s exceptional mast crop. The episode closes out with a look at a new recovery tool available to hunters: drone-assisted deer and elk recovery under specific guidelines and permissions. Packed with expert insight and practical guidance, this discussion helps hunters stay informed, prepared, and excited for the season ahead. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share—and stay connected with TWRA at tnwildlife.org!

    #495 Straight‑Wall, Bait Permits & More: Your Guide to This Year’s Big Changes

  7. Aug 10

    #494 Celebrating Wins In Conservation: Biodiversity Summit 2026

    This week on the award‑winning Tennessee WildCast, we’re taking you straight into the heart of Tennessee’s wild side as we gear up for the second annual Tennessee Biodiversity Summit! Host Jason Harmon is joined by co‑host Ashley Garrison, plus biodiversity experts Josh Campbell and Chris Simpson, for a fast‑paced, energetic dive into one of the most exciting conservation events in the state. Fresh off earning national recognition at the ACI Conference, WildCast is celebrating in style by spotlighting the incredible biodiversity that makes Tennessee truly one‑of‑a‑kind. From bald eagles soaring back from the brink, to newly discovered crayfish hiding beneath our waters, to over 1,500 species of greatest conservation need—this episode is jam‑packed with fascinating stories and surprising discoveries. You’ll hear how last year’s summit drew participants from 72 counties and 12 states, and how this year’s event is set to be even bigger. With the theme “MOVING THE CONSERVATION NEEDLE: WINS IN CONSERVATION,” the crew highlights conservation wins, innovative research, citizen science through eBird, and the brand‑new Conservation Opportunity Area Maps that connect YOU directly to the wildlife around you. And of course, they reveal this year’s keynote speaker: Chris Wood from Cornell University—director of eBird and one of the most influential voices in avian science today. Ready to be inspired? Ready to discover something wild? Won’t you take us back to Tennessee? Tune in and get your Biodiversity Summit tickets at TNWildlife.org!

    #494 Celebrating Wins In Conservation: Biodiversity Summit 2026

  8. Aug 3

    #493 The Path to Wild Quail: Inside the Ames–Tall Timbers Partnership

    Step into West Tennessee with the Tennessee WildCast team as we broadcast from the National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Amy Spencer sit down with experts Matt Backus of Ames Plantation and Alex Jackson of Tall Timbers to explore an exciting new chapter in quail restoration and field trial tradition. Ames Plantation has hosted bird dog field trials for 127 years, and now a bold, science‑driven partnership aims to bring wild quail back to the landscape and elevate the National Championship experience. Matt and Alex explain how intensive habitat management, timber work, prescribed fire, and strategic predator practices are being used to restore early successional habitat and rebuild healthy quail populations on more than 5,000 acres. They discuss how these changes benefit not only bobwhites but a variety of wildlife species, and how the research‑based work at Ames could inspire landowners across West Tennessee and beyond. Listeners will also learn why the afternoon field trial course is undergoing major restoration, how long the transition may take, and what milestones indicate success. The crew highlights the importance of community outreach, landowner education, and the rich hunting and conservation heritage tied to quail management. Whether you’re a field trial fan, a habitat enthusiast, or simply curious about what it takes to restore wild birds in today’s landscape, this episode provides a deep look at intentional land stewardship and the people making it happen. Join us for a fun, informative, and forward‑looking conversation.

    #493 The Path to Wild Quail: Inside the Ames–Tall Timbers Partnership
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4.8
out of 5
60 Ratings

About

Tennessee WildCasts are weekly podcasts brought to you in both video and audio formats. These podcasts provide information on the mission of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, outdoor events and activities from hunting, fishing, boating and just about anything Outdoors. Come back each week and thanks for tuning in!

Information

  • Creator
    Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    500
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
  • Show Website
    Tennessee WildCast

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