In this episode of the Hunt Stealth Podcast, Ryan Uffens sits down with Brayden Staples at the Wilde Arrow Archery range to talk about hunting, family, personal growth, and the lessons that only time in the outdoors can teach. Brayden shares how hunting with his father in the Kamas and Coalville areas shaped his childhood and created memories that had far more to do with time together than the animals they harvested. From traditional deer drives and mornings at deer camp to the difficult experience of taking his first buck at 12 years old, Brayden explains how those early moments taught him the importance of preparation, ethical shot placement, and respecting the animal. He also tells the incredible story of passing on a bull elk that remained on the wrong side of a property boundary, only to have a larger six-point bull appear moments later on land he could legally hunt. It became one of his favorite memories with his dad and a reminder that doing the right thing matters, even when nobody else is watching. Ryan and Brayden discuss the mistakes every hunter makes, including leaving a bow behind while scouting, moving too slowly during a stalk, placing a weapon out of reach, and allowing adrenaline to disrupt a shot process. Rather than viewing those moments as permanent failures, they explain how each mistake can become another step toward eventual success. Brayden also breaks down Utah’s Dedicated Hunter Program, the conservation service required to participate, and why he appreciates having multiple seasons to pursue the same deer. He recounts spending months chasing one specific buck through the archery, muzzleloader, and rifle seasons before finally harvesting it. The experience reinforced that hunting is about much more than filling a tag, it is about studying an animal, building memories with family and friends, and appreciating the entire process. The conversation also explores Brayden’s role with Dark Energy, where he helps market rugged portable power products designed for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. From shooting power banks with shotguns to running them over with heavy equipment, Brayden shares how the company tests its products far beyond what most customers will ever put them through. Ryan and Brayden close by discussing how archery, fitness, discipline, and time outdoors can completely change a person’s life. Their advice is simple: start preparing now, get out of bed, improve a little every day, and do not let failure convince you to quit. This episode is a conversation about hunting, ethics, family, conservation, perseverance, and becoming better through the challenges found on the mountain.
