The Mindful Hunter Podcast

Jay Nichol
  • 4.9 (104)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A deep dive into a mindful perspective on the discipline of hunting.

  1. 1D AGO

    EP 293 – The Importance of Storytelling in Modern Hunting with Robby Denning

    In this episode, I sit down with Robby Denning for a raw and honest conversation about storytelling, hunting, and what really matters.   We dive deep into how hunting stories shaped us growing up — from books and campfire tales to modern films and YouTube. Are we telling better stories today? Or have we lost something in the shift toward short-form content and constant cameras?   We talk about: Why written stories hit differently than video The evolution of hunting content over the last 15 years Ego, burnout, and the pressure to always create Finding balance between documenting the hunt and being present Mentorship, community, and the mistake of going it alone Recovery, masculinity, and how the outdoors can reshape a man   This isn’t a gear episode. It’s a conversation about identity, legacy, and why storytelling might be the most important thing hunters can do right now — especially as ballot initiatives and public perception continue to shape the future of our lifestyle.   Robbie Denning https://www.instagram.com/robbydenning/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    1h 9m

  2. 4D AGO

    EP 292 - Best Budget Hunting Gear? King’s Camo Elevation Hoodie & Ridge Pant Review

    Is King’s Camo the best bang for your buck in hunting apparel right now? In this video, I put the Elevation Quarter Zip Hoodie and Ridge Pants through real backcountry testing—scouting trips, goat hunts, and long training hikes. I break down the fit, function, and feel of each piece, compare them directly to Sitka and Stone Glacier, and share whether these budget-friendly options can truly hang with the premium brands. 🔍 What you’ll learn in this review:  • Price breakdown & comparisons (up to 50% cheaper than Sitka/Stone Glacier)  • Features & materials explained (breathability, stretch, odor control, durability)  • Real-world performance on tough hunts  • Final verdict: Are they worth your money? If you’re a value-minded hunter, new to backcountry hunting, or just tired of paying top-dollar for gear, this review will help you decide if King’s Camo deserves a place in your kit. 👉 Drop your questions or budget gear recommendations in the comments below—I’m working on a budget backcountry gear list and your input will help shape it. Please like, comment, share, and subscribe if you find this review helpful. It really helps push this content further in the algorithm. Thanks for watching and stay tuned for more gear deep dives.  Chapters: 00:00 – Is King’s Camo the best bang for your buck? 00:12 – Introducing the Elevation Hoodie & Ridge Pants 00:33 – Best season and layering use cases 01:00 – Field testing & hunts 01:21 – How I evaluate gear (Fit, Function, Feel) 02:05 – Review framework (Price, Features, Fit/Feel/Function) 02:17 – Hoodie price & comparisons (Sitka, Stone Glacier) 03:00 – Pants price & comparisons 03:34 – Hoodie features breakdown 04:41 – Ridge Pants features breakdown 07:00 – Fit & sizing overview 08:10 – Hoodie fit & hood performance 10:19 – Ridge Pants fit & mobility 12:12 – Hoodie field performance (drying, odor, durability) 15:02 – Pants field performance (fit, durability, crampon test) 18:17 – Final thoughts & value verdict 19:41 – Kings Camo stamp of approval 20:00 – Future reviews, budget gear list, and sign-off   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    21 min

  3. FEB 20

    EP 291 – Haters, Hangar Houses & 70-Inch Bulls | Adam Grenda Unfiltered

    Adam Grenda is known for killing giant moose and flying Super Cubs into wild places — but that’s only half the story. In this episode, we go deep. We talk about: Calling in a 71” bull moose to 12 yards with a bow The intensity of Alaskan moose hunting (and why it hits different) The reality of internet hate and how to not let it own your headspace Building a dream hangar house in remote Alaska from the ground up Why fear is the wall between you and freedom This isn’t just a hunting conversation. It’s about risk. Ownership. Growth. And building a life most people are too scared to chase. Adam lives an incredible life — but not an easy one. And that’s the point. If you’ve ever felt the pressure of comparison, dealt with criticism, or wondered what it really takes to build something meaningful… this one’s for you.   Adam Grenda https://www.instagram.com/grenda89/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    1h 23m

  4. FEB 16

    EP 290 - MTN Gear Mountain Stick 4.1 Review | The Reason I No Longer Use Trekking Poles

    I've got three spots left open for spring black bear hunts in BC and two spots left for archery mule deer in Alberta. For any outfitting info, email me jay@mindfulhunter.com I avoided the Mountain Stick 4.1 from MTN Gear for years because I assumed it was just a trekking pole with an ice axe head. I was wrong. After putting it through the ultimate test on a mountain goat hunt in brutal terrain, I can confidently say this tool is in a league of its own. In this review, I cover: • Why my first impressions were dead wrong • How the Mountain Stick performs in real-world backcountry hunting conditions • Features like the carbide tip, pommel grip, climbing hooks, digging ability, rifle mount, and saw attachment • Pros, cons, and whether it’s worth the $300 price tag If you’re a mountain hunter, backcountry hiker, or gear junkie wondering if the Mountain Stick 4.1 is hype or a legit game changer, this deep dive is for you. 👉 What do you use instead of trekking poles in the mountains? Drop your thoughts in the comments. 🔔 Subscribe for more no-BS gear reviews, optics tests, and backcountry hunting insights. ⸻ 📍 Chapters  00:00 – Why I avoided the Mountain Stick 4.1 00:31 – First assumptions vs. reality 01:08 – Build quality & durability (vs. trekking poles) 01:55 – Stability in steep terrain 02:57 – Pommel grip advantage 04:03 – Carbide tip & footing on tough slopes 05:16 – Climbing with hooks & ice axe function 06:14 – Digging, water, and camp uses 08:08 – Rifle mount & shooting stability 09:28 – Saw attachment & versatility 10:42 – Materials, specs & weight 12:39 – Downsides: grip, price, and weight 14:24 – Why it’s more than a trekking pole 14:51 – The “battle axe” factor 15:20 – Final thoughts & viewer questions   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    18 min

  5. JAN 20

    EP 289 - GoHunt Apparel Review Update | After a Season Guiding Black Bear Hunts in BC

    Four months ago, I gave my first impressions of the new GoHunt apparel lineup. Now, after a full season of guiding black bear hunts in British Columbia, attending a shooting course, and weeks of scouting, I’ve put these pieces through serious abuse. In this video, I give you my honest, unsponsored, and unfiltered feedback on four key pieces: • Atmosphere Jacket • Blackrock Hoodie • Basin Hoodie  • Approach Hoodie No marketing hype — just real-world results from months in the field. Some pieces impressed me, others fell flat. If you’re considering GoHunt gear, this review will help you make a smarter decision before dropping your cash. 👉 Do you agree with my take, or has your experience been different? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.   ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Why This Review Matters 01:01 – Atmosphere Jacket (Sitka Ambient Comparison) 03:23 – Blackrock Hoodie (Best Grid Fleece?) 04:58 – Basin Hoodie (Merino Durability Issues) 06:33 – Approach Hoodie (Favorite Piece) 08:45 – Overall Thoughts on GoHunt Apparel 10:52 – What’s Next from GoHunt (Approach Light, Pants) 11:28 – Community, Giveaways & Closing   If you appreciate unbiased, no-BS gear reviews, support the channel at MindfulReviews.com and join a growing community of backcountry hunter👍 Like • 💬 Comment • 🔔 Subscribe Card: 0:28 – First review   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    13 min

  6. JAN 16

    EP 288 - Ollin vs. Kapture Digiscoping Adapter Review – Which One Actually Works Best in the Field?

    Looking for the best digiscoping adapter for your spotting scope? In this video, I put the Kapture Digiscoping Adapter head-to-head against the industry leader, the Ollin adapter. After six weeks of guiding bear hunts in British Columbia, I tested both products in real hunting conditions to see which one holds up when it matters most. We compare:  • Price  • Build quality & installation  • MagSafe accessory compatibility  • 5x iPhone lens support  • Field usability & reliability If you’re serious about filming your hunts, digiscoping wildlife, or capturing backcountry footage with your iPhone, this review will save you money, frustration, and missed shots. 👉 Which adapter do you trust — Ollin or Kapture? Drop your thoughts in the comments. 👍 Like, Share & Subscribe for more unbiased hunting gear reviews. 00:00 – Intro & Previous Digiscoping Review 00:20 – New Player on the Market: Kapture 01:10 – 6 Weeks of Field Testing in BC 02:05 – How Ollin Works 02:44 – How Kapture Works 03:50 – Price Comparison ($175 vs. $310) 05:00 – Adapter Compatibility & Installation 05:35 – Leaving Adapters On While Glassing 06:20 – Phone Install & MagSafe Compatibility 07:21 – Portrait vs. Landscape Mode 07:45 – The 5x iPhone Lens Advantage 09:50 – User Experience Scores 10:45 – Final Category Rankings (Dead Tie) 11:10 – What Really Matters: Field Experience 13:20 – Why Convenience Beats Features 16:40 – Design Flaws with Kapture’s Adapter 20:00 – Build Quality & Stability Issues 21:00 – Everyday Use with Bino Harness & Pockets 22:10 – Why Ollin Wins for Reliability 23:05 – Wrap Up & Final Verdict 23:50 – Support Mindful Hunter Reviews   Cards: 0:07 – Digiscoiping review   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    25 min

  7. JAN 13

    EP 287 - 2025 Durston X-Mid Tent Review – Brutally Honest Field Test in Harsh Conditions

    In this in-depth review of the 2025 Durston X-Mid 2 Solid, I take this ultralight trekking pole shelter into true mountain hunting terrain to find out whether it can handle real-world backcountry abuse. Wind, rain, poor ground conditions—you name it. No sponsor bias, no marketing fluff—just hard-earned experience and honest feedback. We cover everything from specs, setup, and weather resistance to real-time in-field performance and packability. I also break down whether this tent belongs in your hunting toolkit—or if it’s better left for more casual trips. 🔔 If you’re tired of gear reviews that feel like commercials, hit subscribe. This is the Mindful Hunter way: practical, honest, no-BS reviews to help you make smarter gear choices. 📌 Join the Community: https://www.mindfulreviews.com ⸻ 🕒 Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 – Intro from the Field (Hawaii Update) 00:38 – Initial Setup and Wind Prep Strategy 01:50 – Tent Design and Geometric Benefits 02:50 – Gear Testing and Scouting Trip Overview 03:45 – Guided Hunt Openings + Booking Info 04:14 – Tent Review Criteria Explained (11 Metrics) 05:22 – Weight, Price & Materials Deep Dive 06:05 – Weather Resistance and Rain Performance 06:54 – Condensation, Build Quality & Packability 07:58 – Setup Techniques and Pro Tips 09:18 – Small Footprint Trade-offs 10:10 – Real-World Interior Space Test 11:49 – Vestibules: One of the Tent’s Biggest Wins 13:20 – In-Field Footage 16:54 – Final Verdict & Use Case Recommendations 18:54 – Support Independent Reviews Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    20 min

  8. JAN 9

    EP 286 - Thermarest NeoAir Xlite NXT vs. Big Agnes Zoom UL – Best Ultralight Sleeping Pad For Big Guys

    Are you a bigger guy looking for the best ultralight sleeping pad that won’t bottom out on rocky ground or cold nights? In this in-depth comparison, I put the Thermarest NeoAir Xlite NXT and the Big Agnes Zoom UL head-to-head to find out which one truly delivers for tall and heavy hunters and backpackers. This review goes beyond marketing fluff. I field-tested both pads in real backcountry conditions, evaluated their warmth, comfort, durability, and packability, and broke down the specs in a way that actually matters when you’re over 6 feet tall and 200+ pounds. If you’re tired of vague reviews and want real answers from a mindful, no-BS perspective—this one’s for you. 0:00 – Intro 2:28 – Testing Protocol 3:17 – Spec Comparison Table 8:03 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting 8:51 – In-field Testing Footage 13:15 – Final Thoughts & Recommendations   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

    17 min
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4.9
out of 5
104 Ratings

About

A deep dive into a mindful perspective on the discipline of hunting.

Information

  • Creator
    Jay Nichol
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Mindful Hunter Podcast

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