The Mountain Dude Podcast

Initial Ascent
  • 5.0 (44)
  • WILDERNESS

Welcome to the Mountain Dude Podcast, brought to you by Initial Ascent – where we share stories of grit, determination, and the relentless pursuit of growth. This is a space where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life – success born from struggle, and the art of carrying heavy loads more comfortably, both physically and metaphorically, through faith and perseverance.

  1. From American Idol to Backcountry Elk Hunting | Sean Curtis

    2D AGO

    From American Idol to Backcountry Elk Hunting | Sean Curtis

    Got questions? Send us a text! On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast presented by Initial Ascent, Chris sits down with Sean Curtis for one of the most honest and grounded conversations we’ve had on the show yet. Sean shares his journey from growing up in Wyoming and teaching himself how to hunt, to playing college baseball, competing on American Idol, and touring as a country musician for nearly a decade before ultimately walking away from the road life to focus on faith, family, and the mountains. The guys dive deep into: learning elk hunting through failure solo hunting and what it teaches you about yourself why elk hunting becomes an obsession balancing ambition with fatherhood the importance of time with your family finding purpose beyond success how modern hunters are adapting to increasingly educated elk Sean also opens up about the moment he realized he was watching his kids grow up through FaceTime calls from the road, and why he canceled an entire tour schedule to come home and be present with his family. If you’re passionate about western hunting, archery elk hunting, fatherhood, faith, and becoming a better man both on and off the mountain, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Check out Sean here: Instagram: @sean307curtis If you’re looking for a backcountry hunting pack system built for serious mountain hunters, check out the IA5K, the Scout, and the rest of the lineup at: Initial Ascent Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    35 min
  2. How Faith, Fatherhood & Discipline Saved a Firefighter | Jared Thomas

    MAY 19

    How Faith, Fatherhood & Discipline Saved a Firefighter | Jared Thomas

    Got questions? Send us a text! On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast presented by Initial Ascent, we sit down with firefighter, bowhunter, father, and fitness coach Jared Thomas for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had on the show. Jared shares his journey growing up hunting in Oregon, learning discipline from his father, balancing life as a first responder, and why being a present husband and dad matters more than anything else. We dive deep into mental health, faith, fitness, fatherhood, and the unseen weight many first responders carry every day. This episode goes far beyond hunting. It’s about purpose, resilience, and finding strength when life gets heavy. Topics in this episode: Backcountry hunting & bowhunting Fatherhood and raising tough kids First responder mental health Faith and overcoming dark seasons Fitness for mountain hunting Discipline vs motivation Hunting with family Nutrition & endurance training Why hunting changes people Follow Jared Thomas: Instagram: @peakedoutadventures Check out Haxan Hunt on YouTube for more hunting and outdoor content. This episode is presented by Initial Ascent. Built for hunters who demand comfort under heavy loads, Initial Ascent pack systems are engineered around their American-made frame system and designed for serious backcountry performance. Whether you're chasing elk deep in the mountains or hauling heavy loads out of brutal country, Initial Ascent packs are built to keep you comfortable when it matters most. Shop pack systems, duffels, and accessories at: Initial Ascent Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    51 min
  3. How to Build a Life Around Freedom and TIME | Cody Rich Of Bridger Watch Co.

    MAY 12

    How to Build a Life Around Freedom and TIME | Cody Rich Of Bridger Watch Co.

    Got questions? Send us a text! On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast presented by Initial Ascent, we sit down with Cody Rich, founder of Bridger Watch Company, to talk entrepreneurship, elk hunting, building a company from the ground up, and the journey behind creating a smartwatch designed specifically for hunters. Cody shares the full backstory behind Bridger Watch, from the original idea while turkey hunting in the Idaho backcountry to taking on a market dominated by Garmin and building a watch with mapping, battery life, and hunting-specific functionality at the center of the design. We also dive into entrepreneurship, balancing family and hunting, building businesses around freedom and time, and the mindset it takes to chase big ideas. This episode is packed with insight for hunters, entrepreneurs, creators, and anyone trying to build a life around what matters most. Topics Covered: • Building Bridger Watch from scratch • Why hunters needed a better smartwatch • Entrepreneurship and building freedom through business • Hunting more while working less • Elk hunting obsession and backcountry lifestyle • Designing products for real hunters • Startup struggles, leadership, and problem-solving • Battery life, mapping, and hunting tech • Why Cody believes in solving real-world problems Check out Bridger Watch: Bridger Watch Company Check out Initial Ascent Packs: Initial Ascent The Mountain Dude Podcast is where backcountry hunting meets entrepreneurship, mindset, faith, and the lessons learned in the mountains. Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    57 min
  4. How to Actually Find Big Mule Deer: Brady Miller

    MAY 5

    How to Actually Find Big Mule Deer: Brady Miller

    Got questions? Send us a text! Brady Miller from GOHUNT breaks down what it really takes to become a consistently successful western hunter—and it’s not what most people think. In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with GOHUNT’s Brady Miller to talk mule deer obsession, backcountry suffering, and the mindset required to keep showing up when success doesn’t come easy. From growing up in the Midwest chasing whitetails to building a career in the hunting industry out West, Brady shares the lessons that shaped him—including the story of losing a 200-inch mule deer that changed everything. We dive into: Why mule deer hunting demands more than just effort How failure early on builds elite hunters The difference between hunting for success vs. hunting for experience Why biology—not luck—is the key to finding mature animals The mental side of backcountry hunting and pushing past comfort If you’re serious about becoming a better hunter—or just want to understand what drives the guys who consistently get it done—this episode delivers. Gear up for your next hunt: Explore backcountry hunting packs and gear at Initial Ascent Built for serious hunters who demand performance in the mountains. Listen to the Mountain Dude Podcast on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Follow along: Instagram: @initialascent Website: https://initialascent.com About the Mountain Dude Podcast: Real conversations with hunters, creators, and industry leaders about what it takes to grow—both in the mountains and in life. Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    55 min
  5. 24 Years of Work for One Phone Call: SEC Official Jeff Mikus

    APR 28

    24 Years of Work for One Phone Call: SEC Official Jeff Mikus

    Got questions? Send us a text! What does it take to spend 24 years chasing one opportunity and be ready when it finally comes? In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Mikus—a backcountry hunter and SEC college football official—to break down the mindset required to perform at the highest level. From grinding through decades of officiating to stepping onto the field in front of 100,000 fans, Jeff shares how the same principles apply in the mountains, in life, and in the moments that matter most. In this episode: The 24-year journey to reaching the SEC Why success is built through “equity,” not shortcuts The mental switch that flips in high-pressure moments How hunting and elite performance are more connected than you think Battling self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and failure Why the hunting community needs to stay united Whether you’re chasing elk in the backcountry or chasing big goals in life, this episode will challenge how you think about preparation, discipline, and showing up when it counts. GEAR UP FOR YOUR NEXT HUNT If you’re preparing for your next backcountry hunt and need a pack system built for heavy loads and real-world performance, check out: https://initialascent.com LISTEN AND FOLLOW Apple Podcasts Spotify ABOUT THE PODCAST The Mountain Dude Podcast is presented by Initial Ascent—where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life. Every episode is built to help you grow mentally, physically, and spiritually. Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    49 min
  6. Why Your Backcountry Cook System SUCKS (And How to Fix It): Chris Neville of Roughridge Stove Co.

    APR 21

    Why Your Backcountry Cook System SUCKS (And How to Fix It): Chris Neville of Roughridge Stove Co.

    Got questions? Send us a text! Backcountry hunters know the struggle… piecing together a cook system that actually works when it matters most. In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Chris Neville, co-founder of Roughridge Stove Co., to break down how years of frustration in the backcountry turned into one of the most innovative cook systems built specifically for hunters. Chris dives into the real problems with traditional stoves—poor performance in wind, unreliable igniters, inefficient fuel usage—and how he and his brother spent over 3 years building a system from the ground up to solve them. This isn’t a rebranded product… it’s a purpose-built solution designed for the harsh realities of western hunting. We also get into the entrepreneurial side of the journey—bootstrapping a company, navigating manufacturing challenges, and what it actually takes to bring an idea to life while balancing family, hunting, and real life. If you’ve ever struggled with your gear in the backcountry, this episode will hit home. What You’ll Learn: Why most cook systems fail in real hunting conditions How wind and altitude impact stove performance The biggest mistakes hunters make with backcountry gear What it really takes to build a product from scratch The mindset required to stick with something for 3+ years Check Out Rough Ridge Stoves: https://roughridgestoves.com Follow along on Instagram for product updates and behind-the-scenes development. Gear Up for Your Next Hunt: If you're looking for a backcountry pack system built to perform when it matters most, check out Initial Ascent: https://initialascent.com About the Podcast: The Mountain Dude Podcast is presented by Initial Ascent. We bring you real conversations with hunters, entrepreneurs, and people who live for the mountains—diving into the mindset, grit, and lessons learned along the way. Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    37 min
  7. Turkey Hunting Tips That Actually Work | Calls, Setups & Strategy w/ Dirk Durham (Phelps Game Calls)

    APR 14

    Turkey Hunting Tips That Actually Work | Calls, Setups & Strategy w/ Dirk Durham (Phelps Game Calls)

    Got questions? Send us a text! Spring turkey season is here, and if you’ve ever struggled to call in a gobbler, you’re not alone. In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Dirk Durham of Phelps Game Calls to break down real-world turkey hunting tactics that actually work. From beginner fundamentals to advanced strategies, Dirk shares hard-earned lessons from decades of chasing turkeys across the country. We dive into the biggest mistakes hunters make, why turkeys don’t always respond the way you expect, and how to adjust your approach when birds hang up, go silent, or flat-out ignore your calls. This episode covers: How to call in a turkey (and why it’s harder than you think) Box calls vs pot calls vs diaphragm calls How to use locator calls to find birds Decoy setups that actually bring gobblers in Best times of day to hunt turkeys Patience and positioning tactics that make the difference Whether you’re new to turkey hunting or looking to sharpen your skills this spring, this episode will help you become more effective in the field. 🏹 Gear Mentioned in This Episode Check out Dirk’s calls at Phelps Game Calls: https://phelpsgamecalls.com Explore Initial Ascent gear built for spring hunts and everyday carry: Scout Pack (lightweight, frameless day pack): https://initialascent.com/products/the-scout Sawtooth Duffel Bags (built for travel, hunts, and everyday use): https://initialascent.com 🎙 About the Podcast The Mountain Dude Podcast is presented by Initial Ascent. This is where backcountry hunting meets real conversations about grit, growth, and the lessons learned along the way. 🔔 Don’t Forget Subscribe for more episodes Download the podcast Share it with a hunting partner Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    1h 4m
  8. Spring Bear Tactics: Chris Young and Joe Elliston

    APR 7

    Spring Bear Tactics: Chris Young and Joe Elliston

    Got questions? Send us a text! Spring bear season is HERE—and this episode is a full breakdown of how to actually find and kill bears in the backcountry. We dive deep into early season tactics, including how to locate bears without a snowline, what food sources matter most, and how to adjust your strategy based on the time of year. From glassing techniques to understanding bear behavior, this one is packed with real-world experience you can apply immediately. If you're heading into the mountains this spring, this episode will help you cut the learning curve and increase your odds. We also answer listener questions on: Where bears are early season (and why) How long to stay in a drainage before moving Morning vs evening hunting strategies What actually matters when locating bears in big country Backcountry tips that will put you in the right position This is a boots-on-the-ground, no-BS conversation from guys who spend serious time chasing bears. Gear We Trust in the Backcountry Built for hunts like this: 👉 https://initialascent.com Follow Along Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/initialascent Website: https://initialascent.com About the Podcast The Mountain Dude Podcast is where backcountry hunting meets real life. We talk tactics, mindset, and the lessons learned in the mountains—all with the goal of helping you climb higher in every area of life. Support the Show If you enjoyed this episode: Hit Subscribe Download the episode Share it with a buddy getting ready for bear season If you're planning a spring bear hunt in Idaho or across the West, having the right system matters just as much as your strategy. Early season conditions demand versatility—long glassing sessions, steep terrain, and heavy pack-outs all require gear that can perform when it counts. That’s where Initial Ascent pack systems come in. Built for serious backcountry hunters, these packs are designed to handle everything from lightweight scouting missions to hauling heavy loads of meat out of rugged country. Whether you're spot-and-stalk hunting bears, navigating changing spring weather, or covering miles in search of fresh green-up, having a dependable pack system can make or break your hunt. Subscribe and join the journey. New episodes dropping weekly. #MountainDudePodcast #FaithGritGear #BackcountryLife #ChristianOutdoorsmen #HuntingPodcast https://initialascent.com/ Want to watch the episode on YouTube: Click here. Instagram Facebook

    1h 11m
See All (52)

5
out of 5
44 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Mountain Dude Podcast, brought to you by Initial Ascent – where we share stories of grit, determination, and the relentless pursuit of growth. This is a space where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life – success born from struggle, and the art of carrying heavy loads more comfortably, both physically and metaphorically, through faith and perseverance.

Information

  • Creator
    Initial Ascent
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Mountain Dude Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Mountain Dude Podcast

You Might Also Like