The Mindful Hunter Podcast

Jay Nichol
  • 4.9 (105)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

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

  1. 2D AGO

    EP 297 – The Truth About Guided Hunts, Tag Systems, and What Actually Helps You Kill Animals with Jake Downs

    In this episode of the Mindful Hunter Podcast, I sit down with a good friend who spends just as many days in the field as I do. What starts as a conversation about hunting quickly turns into a deeper discussion about parenting, mindset, and the realities of modern hunting. We dive into the importance of getting kids outside, why making the outdoors fun is the key to raising lifelong hunters, and how time in the field forces you to slow down and be present. From there we get into Arizona hunts, changing draw systems, and why the traditional “save points forever for one dream tag” strategy may not make sense anymore. We talk about alternatives like landowner tags, outfitted hunts, and finding creative ways to keep hunting more often instead of waiting decades for a tag. We also break down the biggest misconceptions people have about guided hunts, the psychology of managing clients during a hunt, and why mindset matters more than grinding miles when it comes to actually killing animals. We wrap things up talking about discipline, the 75 Hard challenge, and why stacking small wins every day might be the real key to success—both in hunting and in life. This episode is a wide-ranging conversation about hunting culture, experience, and the mindset required to stay in the game for the long haul.   Jake Downs https://www.instagram.com/jake_d_downs/   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 44m

  2. 6D AGO

    EP 296 - Don’t Buy the Wrong Sig Zulu 6 Binoculars: HDX vs. HDX Pro Buyer's Guide

    The #1 question I get after reviewing both the HDX and HDX Pro versions of the Sig Sauer Zulu 6 binoculars is: “Which pair should I actually buy?” In this video, I break down all 7 models in the Zulu 6 lineup — both HDX and HDX Pro — and help you decide which model fits your hunting needs. I’ve spent months using these optics in real-world hunts. No fluff, no paid endorsements — just hard-earned insights from the field. If you want the clearest, most honest buyer’s guide on these binos anywhere online, you’re in the right place. 👉 Support more videos like this and access my full gear database at: 🔗 https://www.mindful-reviews.com 📧 Book a hunt with me or ask a gear question: jay@mindfulhunter.com ⸻ ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Why this video matters 00:26 – 3-month real-world testing 00:44 – HDX vs. HDX Pro: Key differences 02:00 – Objective sizes, magnification & pricing 02:33 – Light transmission + warranty 03:08 – Ergonomics & hand-feel 04:18 – Field use: 10x30 model 05:06 – Exit pupil explained 06:16 – Light transmission trade-offs 07:17 – Why Pro coatings matter 08:00 – Image stabilization: Scan vs. OmniScan 09:22 – Exit pupil comparison (graph) 10:12 – Bigger objective = better image 11:15 – Top picks: 10x30, 12x42, 16x50 12:09 – Raghorn hunt spot announcement 13:23 – My 4-variable framework: How to choose 15:39 – Final recommendations by user type 17:19 – Bino harness talk: AGC vs Stone Glacier 18:54 – Why this channel exists 19:13 – Support Mindful Reviews 19:32 – Join the discussion in the comments

    20 min

  3. MAR 7

    EP 295 – A True Killer Who Chose To Stay Behind The Camera: Sam Averett

    In this episode of the Mindful Hunter Podcast, I sit down with outdoor photographer Sam Averett to talk about hunting, storytelling, and the strange intersection between the two. Sam and I first met on a mountain goat hunt in British Columbia — the kind of hunt that makes you feel like you’re standing on the moon. But beyond the mountains, Sam has quietly built one of the most respected careers in hunting media, working behind the camera with some of the biggest brands and personalities in the outdoor space. We dive into how Sam went from growing up hunting out the back door in eastern Oregon to working for the Forest Service and eventually making the leap into full-time photography. Along the way we talk about mentorship, breaking into the outdoor industry, and why relationships matter more than talent early in your career. The conversation also explores something that doesn’t get talked about enough: the tension between documenting the hunt and actually experiencing it. In a world full of influencers and constant content, Sam made a deliberate choice to stay behind the camera and focus on the craft rather than building a personal brand around dead animals and social media validation. We also get into the art of capturing real moments in the mountains, the difference between filming your own hunts versus having someone document them, and why some of the most powerful stories in hunting might still be told through writing and print rather than short digital films. This is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, authenticity, and staying grounded in an industry that’s changing fast. If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the lens of the best hunt films and photos in the industry — this episode is for you.   Sam Averett https://www.instagram.com/samaverett/ https://www.samaverett.com/   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 11m

  4. MAR 3

    EP 294 - MSR Pocket Rocket vs MSR WindBurner | Ultralight vs Efficiency – Which Stove Wins?

    Is an ultralight backpacking stove really lighter when you factor in the extra fuel it burns? In this video, I put the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 head-to-head against the MSR WindBurner to find out. I ran extensive lab tests, measured fuel efficiency, compared total system weights, and looked at real-world packability to help you decide which stove is best for your backcountry hunts and backpacking trips. Whether you’re a hunter shaving ounces for a goat hunt, or a backpacker planning a 10-day alpine trip, this review gives you the data and context you need to make the right call. If you enjoy in-depth, no-nonsense gear breakdowns, subscribe for more content like this.   Chapters / Timestamps 0:00 – Is ultralight really lighter? 0:18 – The contenders: Pocket Rocket 2 vs WindBurner 0:37 – My experience with both systems 1:12 – Stove & pot weight breakdown 2:05 – Why I chose the Oli Camp XT pot 2:32 – Total system weight comparison 2:43 – Testing setup & protocols 3:29 – Fuel burn results (Pocket Rocket vs WindBurner) 4:22 – Realities of flame control in the field 5:23 – What the data means for hunters 5:42 – Packability & wind performance 6:56 – System weight vs fuel weight trade-off 8:19 – My go-to stove for most hunts 9:23 – When the Pocket Rocket makes sense 10:14 – Why the WindBurner stands out in the field 11:20 – Final thoughts & viewer Q&A   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

    14 min

  5. FEB 27

    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

  6. FEB 24

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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
See All (304)

4.9
out of 5
105 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Jay Nichol
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    304
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Mindful Hunter Podcast

You Might Also Like