The Wild Dispatch

Robin Warman
  • 5.0 (20)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From world-record-breaking expeditions to traditional techniques: The Wild Dispatch explores the incredible ways we connect with nature.  Full of honest conversations and occasional audio-adventures. This part-Brit part-South-African in America chats with guests about fishing, foraging, tracking, homesteading, ancient hunting, ultralight camping, and everything in between. It’s a podcast for nature lovers —an owl-hoot to the skills and traditions that've got us here today.

  1. EP96: Pursuing The Perfect Fly ↣ Raymond Mutemeri: From Zimbabwe to S.Africa

    1D AGO

    EP96: Pursuing The Perfect Fly ↣ Raymond Mutemeri: From Zimbabwe to S.Africa

    Like many things in the wild, it’s small details that make the difference. Trained by the late Gordon Macpherson as part of an elite fly tying team in Zimbabwe, Ray Mutemeri has known this fact to be true for almost 40 years. It was this same attention to detail that brought him up through the ranks, and eventually gave him the opportunity to move to South Africa. He is now the lead tyer at the Johburg office of South africa’s biggest fly fishing shop and outfitter -Mavungana Fly Fishing. Perhaps the wildest part of this story: it was almost twenty years and hundreds of thousands of flies later that Ray could first experience the effectivenes of his own craftmanship in the water.  A huge thankyou to Ray for sharing his time and stories with us today! Give Mavungana a follow on Instagram and check out all kinds of information and classes including fly tying with Raymond at Mavungana fly fishing Main Topics Covered:Raymond’s fishing journey from Zimbabwe to South AfricaEvolution and specialization in fly tyingTechniques for tying various fly sizesEnvironmental influences on fly selectionFly fishing culture in Zimbabwe and South AfricaConservation through catch-and-releaseTeaching fly tying to new generationsMentorship and continuous learningIdentifying and adapting fly techniquesUnusual fly requestsBuilding a foundation in fly tyingImpact of Zimbabwe’s economy on tourismWomen’s role in fly tying and fishingTimestamps:00:31 - Introduction to Raymond Mutemere and his background 04:02 - The history of fly fishing in Zimbabwe and Raymond’s early life 06:36 - The influence of Scottish fly tyer Gordon MacPherson 07:45 - The scale of the fly tying industry in Zimbabwe 08:45 - Tying rates and specialization in dry flies 12:23 - Raymond’s childhood near rivers in Zimbabwe 14:01 - Fly fishing trips to Eastern Highlands for trout 16:14 - Personal stories of first catches and learning from guides 20:41 - Popular fly patterns like the Shamare Timi 22:00 - The cultural difference between catch and release and consumption 24:46 - The significance of size in catch-and-release practices 26:29 - Technical challenges in fly tying, 36:23 - Teaching others and passing on skills 41:44 - Creating custom flies and imitating environmental cues 44:41 - Types of hooks used in fly tying 46:12 - The process of tying a fly step by step 50:14 - Material application and proportions 54:33 - How observing insects in nature informs fly design 58:23 - Handling unusual requests, creative tying stories 60:18 - Common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them 63:49 - Women in fly tying and fishing 66:00 - The importance of continuous learning and mentorship 68:51 - Philosophy of humility in skill mastery 70:15 - Maintaining connections with fly fishing peers 71:07 - How to find Raymond for lessons or custom flies 72:54 - Closing remarks and future episodes Follow Robin & The Wild Dispatch on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook

    1h 15m
  2. Tools For Wild Minds - Visualizing A Successful Hunt

    6D AGO ·  BONUS

    Tools For Wild Minds - Visualizing A Successful Hunt

    Sometimes when we hunt, it can feel like there's nothing out there... we loose focus for just a moment and suddenly that target animal bolts, alerting everything in the area. This visualization helps keep your focus, and maintain your belief in finding success. We bring many of the skills from this TFWM series together and apply them to a specific outdoor scenario. If you haven't had a chance to listen to the full series, it's a good idea to go back and build your toolbox!

    22 min
  3. EP95: The Magic of Fermented Foods (& Giant Muleys) ↣ Tim Bray

    MAY 11

    EP95: The Magic of Fermented Foods (& Giant Muleys) ↣ Tim Bray

    Having grown up bowhunting the mountains of Nevada, it's clear Tim Bray has never been interested in doing things the easy way. The same can be said for the incredible fermented foods and drinks he creates. In this episode, Tim shares his own fascinating story, along with a bunch of tips and wisdoms he's learned over the past few decades. A huge thank you again to Tim for his time, stories, and skillset today. Give Tim a follow on Facebook –and check out his Ecology Hour show on local radio station KZYX Key Topics:The process of fermenting apples into cider and the importance of apple varietiesHow weather and year-to-year variations influence cider flavor profilesThe role of wild yeast strains and developing cultured yeasts like KvikeTechniques for aging and blending cider for flavorHistorical context of brewing post-Prohibition in AmericaThe science behind lacto-fermentation in vegetables, fruits, and meatsThe cultural and natural history of yeast strains from Norway and LithuaniaHow fermentation preserves flavor and enhances gut health 00:00 - Introduction to Tim Bray 02:19 - Workshop setup and fermentation chambers explained 05:40 - The true meaning of cider worldwide 06:36 - Fermentation as a method of preservation and brewing basics 09:19 - Comparing cider and beer brewing processes 10:13 - The importance of starting with quality fruit for good cider 12:00 - Regional apple varieties and their influence on cider quality 13:30 - How acidity, tannins, and sugar balance in cider 15:30 - Variations in American cider styles, back-sweetening, and commercial practices 17:05 - Developing wild yeast cultures and homebrew brewing history 18:23 - Yeast strains like Scrumpy and their unique characteristics 19:00 - The aging process and fermentation byproducts 20:02 - Impact of weather and apple quality on seasonal cider variations 22:07 - Using sulfur dioxide and wild yeast in cider fermentation 24:22 - The art of blending different batches for flavor complexity 25:37 - How fermentation shapes flavors similar to seasoning in cooking 27:09 - Timeline for cider fermentation and aging techniques 28:33 - The influence of weather on apple and cider profiles 30:34 - Differences in flavor due to apple traits and conditions 33:00 - Adjusting process based on experience and weather patterns 35:10 - The craft of blending cider types and batches 36:04 - The basics of homebrewing beer and how it relates to fermentation 37:52 - Prohibition's impact on brewing and the rise of craft beer 41:16 - Notable craft brewers from homebrew roots, Sierra Nevada's story 44:06 - The innovative Norwegian Kvike yeast strain and its advantages 49:25 - Techniques for hunting and the story of a big Nevada buck 54:50 - Challenges of tracking and handling game in rugged terrain 63:17 - The historic Roxbury Russet apple and cloning techniques 66:45 - The significance of orchard diversity and cider apple varieties 70:10 - The cultural significance of fermentation in different regions 85:30 - The Norwegian Kvike yeast's unique fermentation traits 92:32 - The specificity and flavor contributions of different yeast strains 98:15 - Benefits of lacto-fermentation for preservation and gut health 103:25 - How modern food processing affects natural fermentation and health 105:39 - Using fermentation to digest carbohydrates and improve nutrition 106:00 - A preview of future demonstrations, including kimchi making

    1h 53m
  4. Tools For Wild Minds ↣ More Advanced Breath Work

    MAY 7 ·  BONUS

    Tools For Wild Minds ↣ More Advanced Breath Work

    Exercise begins at 11.30 In this episode, Robin dives deeper into the practices that help him focus when they matter the most. He recounts his recent successful tradbow hunt in the mountains with a red hartebeest while it's fresh in his mind, and explains some of the techniques that helped him succeed when the percentages said he should have failed.

    23 min
  5. EP94: Hunting the Biggest Wild Olive Forest in Africa ↣ Ross, Robin, Dr. de Villiers

    MAY 4

    EP94: Hunting the Biggest Wild Olive Forest in Africa ↣ Ross, Robin, Dr. de Villiers

    In this episode, Robin reunites with Ross Cameron and Dr. Adrian de Villers for a few days at the Cameron Property. Amongst great chats with the Cameron clan, and delicious meals cooked over an open fire, Ross and The Doc venture up onto the mountain in search of wild game. While the heavy rains scuppered fishing on the Vaal river, some mind-blowing animal encounters kept their spirits high and bellies full. A huge thank you again to the Camerons for another incredible adventure! Interested in fly fishing, specimen carp fishing, or bespoke bowhunting? Or maybe just want to relax amongst the largest wild olives forest in the southern hemisphere? Check out Camelotstay.co.za Subscribe to this podcast so you're always up to date. Even better - share us with a friend who loves the outdoors. Follow Robin & The Wild Dispatch on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook... Key Topics: Robin's trip to Parais, South Africa, including stay at Camelot and mountain adventuresThe experience of hunting with a recurve bow in the bush and the challenges involvedStories from flying cattle rescue missions, including dramatic weather and mountain passesThe unique wildlife encountersCultural and practical insights into South African farms, water systems, and local community lifeThe significance of salt harvesting from ocean rocks and animal behaviors in different environmentsExploring remote airstrips, abandoned runways, and historic aviation storiesInsights into sustainable cattle farming and indigenous breeds in AfricaPersonal moments of reflection, including proposal stories and future plans Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Robin’s recent South Africa trip overview 00:41 - Exploring Camelot Stay and mountain adventures 02:04 - Robin’s hunting experiences and challenges of using a recurve bow 03:36 - Flying cattle rescue stories during severe weather events 04:53 - Encounter with wildlife around the farm 06:06 - Exploring remote airstrips and local aviation history 08:07 - Insights into water systems and environmental impact in South Africa 12:02 - Cultural stories about farms, community, and indigenous cattle 16:29 - Historic aviation and secret airstrips in remote areas 20:46 - South African weather patterns and seasonal rains 24:10 - Local community life and farm activities 27:02 - The impact of storms on water levels and dams 31:29 - Shark diving and underwater filming adventures with local experts 36:14 - Challenging terrain and driving in South Africa’s wild areas 40:28 - Wildlife sightings and animal behaviors at night 45:02 - Hunting and tracking stories with insights into animal behavior 50:18 - Family life, pet stories, and farm daily routines 54:13 - Hunting preparations, firearm details, and field strategies 58:08 - Reflections on wildlife conservation and animal management 64:16 - The thrill of tracking and shooting in the bush 70:00 - Personal stories of proposals and future plans in the wild 73:08 - Wrapping up with future adventures and gratitude

    1h 52m
  6. EP93: The Man Who Spears African Bush Pigs ↣ Aubury Tidbury

    APR 28

    EP93: The Man Who Spears African Bush Pigs ↣ Aubury Tidbury

    Many feel driven to make their hunting equipment more primitive... Often that involves swapping a rifle for a compound, or even traditional bow. But Aubrey Tidbury is a man hungry for something more difficult. Heading out into the African bush with nothing but a home-made spear, he often faces two of the lesser-known but more aggressive animals you can find in the Eastern Cape of South Africa: The bush pig and the bush buck. A huge thank you to Aubrey for sharing his time with us! Give Aubrey a follow on Instagram Follow his son's fantastic YouTube Channel Bushveld Bowhunting - check out their Insta too. The conversation delves into the history of bow hunting in the Eastern Cape, the learning and progression in bow hunting skills, and the significance of bush pigs in hunting. It also covers the early experiences of bow hunting, the journey of learning and improving hunting skills, and the first animal hunt experience, along with the importance of bush pigs in hunting. Aubrey discusses the importance of consistency in feeding pigs, highlighting the impact of routine and the challenges of maintaining this consistency. He also shares his innovative solutions for pig feeding challenges, including the development of specialized feeders. Additionally, he recounts close calls and hunting adventures, providing insights into the thrilling and dangerous aspects of pig hunting. The conversation delves into the primal and intense experience of hunting with spears, as well as the game-changing impact of using dogs in spear hunting. It also explores the process of creating spears and the purpose behind their design, providing insights into the hunting experience and the tools used. The conversation delves into the art of spear hunting, exploring the techniques and tools used in this traditional hunting practice. Additionally, the importance of documenting family hunting stories is highlighted, emphasizing the value of preserving and passing down these stories for future generations. Takeaways Bow hunting history in the Eastern CapeLearning and progression in bow huntingThe significance of bush pigs in hunting Consistency in feeding creates a routine for pigsInnovative solutions for pig feeding challenges Hunting with spears is a primal and intense experienceThe use of dogs in hunting with spears has been a game changer Spear hunting techniquesDocumenting family hunting stories Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Bow Hunting Experience10:58 Learning and Progression in Bow Hunting18:57 First Animal Hunt and Bush Pig Significance28:27 Consistency in Feeding35:00 Innovative Solutions for Pig Feeding43:48 Close Calls and Hunting Adventures01:01:47 The Reward of the Little Spear01:07:13 The Pursuit and the Final Encounter01:13:08 The Search for the Pig and the Final Discovery01:18:24 The Introduction of German Hunting Terriers01:24:04 The Process of Creating Spears01:28:40 The Spears Aubrey has developed01:35:30 The Mighty Bushbuck01:38:30 Hand To Hand Combat with a Bushbuck01:53:00 The Power of Stories01:58:00 Uncle Dicky and the thorn-snake• • 02:02:00 Wrap-up

    2h 4m
  7. EP92: Back to The Eastern Cape ↣ South Africa

    APR 20 ·  BONUS

    EP92: Back to The Eastern Cape ↣ South Africa

    Robin is currently juggling adventures and interviews like a circus on steroids. Many obscenely good episodes featuring a bunch of new guests will be landing in your podcast feed... any bloody... second... soon. But in the meantime, here's some musings from the Eastern Cape of South Africa, as well a story or two from a recent adventure in the Ngwathe municipality

    7 min
  8. Tools For Wild Minds ↣ Mindful Basics: Sharpening Your Focus

    APR 16 ·  BONUS

    Tools For Wild Minds ↣ Mindful Basics: Sharpening Your Focus

    Exercise begins from 6:51 - In this episode Robin shares another useful technique for staying focused. This is one of the mindful basics series that helps build your meditation toolkit. This one's useful whether you're out on an adventure in the wild, or just living your day-to-day life.

    18 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

From world-record-breaking expeditions to traditional techniques: The Wild Dispatch explores the incredible ways we connect with nature.  Full of honest conversations and occasional audio-adventures. This part-Brit part-South-African in America chats with guests about fishing, foraging, tracking, homesteading, ancient hunting, ultralight camping, and everything in between. It’s a podcast for nature lovers —an owl-hoot to the skills and traditions that've got us here today.

Information

  • Creator
    Robin Warman
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Robin Warman
  • Show Website
    The Wild Dispatch

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