Raised in the Woods

Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Wilderness
  • Updated Weekly

Born in Waukesha, WI and making his adventuresome life in Wisconsin, Joel Kleefisch is Raised in the Woods!  Join Joel and co-host Ellie Lawton weekly to hear their fresh perspective enjoying the great outdoors in the Midwest --and eating well afterwards. Joel served 14 years in the State Assembly, mingled with presidents,  and has traveled the world on hunting and fishing adventures. Ellie Lawton is a lifelong Midwest farm girl whose love of the outdoors and eating what she harvests led to a career feeding the masses. As a certified award winning French Chef, hunter angler, and forager, Ellie’s grocery store is the waters and woods of the midwest! 

  1. 4d ago

    A New Generation of Hunters (Hour 1)

    The podcast dives into the rising number of women embracing the outdoors in the Midwest, discussing both triumphs and challenges they face. A panel including Danielle, Dave, and Joe explores how women hunters are transforming the landscape, despite obstacles like social media pressures and skepticism from traditionalists. The episode emphasizes fostering inclusivity and respect in hunting communities. Listeners are treated to a tantalizing discussion on wild game recipes, featuring venison goulash and a unique fusion dish with dashi broth. The hosts champion kindness and collaboration, urging everyone to choose positivity and support for one another in the great outdoors. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region, from the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows.

    44 min

  2. Jun 6

    Touching Grass in the Social Media Age

    The podcast dives into the pervasive impact of social media on our lives and the outdoors. Joel Kleefisch and guests like Chad Belding and Brittany Christensen discuss how social media blurs reality, causing generational shifts where kids struggle with interpersonal communication. They explore the contradiction of needing social media for business while yearning for genuine human interaction. Chad shares his journey from humble beginnings with portable toilets to building a waterfowl empire with The Fowl Life. The episode underscores the importance of balancing tech with outdoor experiences, highlighting the American dream's essence through hard work and passion. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region, from the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Guest: Chad Belding

    44 min

  3. May 30

    Mallard Ducks and Manifestation: From Turkeys to TV

    Joel Kleefisch hosts a riveting episode featuring Chad Belding, national host of The Fowl Life, diving into the profound impact of hunting on personal networks and life experiences. Chad shares how the humble Mallard Duck connected him with fascinating people across diverse fields. The crew discusses the essence of manifestation, debating its role in success and hunting triumphs. Brittany Christensen charms with her first Wisconsin visit, sharing tales of duck tongue delicacies and horse-whistling adventures. The episode wraps with a culinary celebration of wild game, urging listeners to embrace the outdoors and savor life beyond screens. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region, from the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows.

    44 min

  4. May 23

    The Adventures of a Former “DNR Czar”

    Joel Kleefisch hosts a lively episode featuring Eric Loebner from Wisconsin's DNR and former Chief Warden Todd Schaller. They dive into outdoor adventures, wildlife management, and the joys of turkey hunting. Chef Lawton introduces a mouthwatering brunch dish—turkey toast with poached eggs, avocado, and pomegranate seeds. The discussion shifts to turkey camp cuisine, including a delectable turkey wild rice curry soup and venison-bacon burgers. The episode wraps up with a nod to supporting local Midwest eateries and a reminder of the outdoor wonders waiting to be celebrated. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region, from the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows.

    44 min

  5. May 16

    Duck Tongue Delicacies and Conservation Conundrums

    Get ready for a wild ride through the Midwest's great outdoors with hosts Joel Kleefisch and Chef Ellie Lawton. This episode is a smorgasbord of turkey tales and culinary experiments. Special guests Eric Lobner and Todd Schaller from the Wisconsin DNR share insights on conservation, turkey hunting antics, and the challenges of adapting to political shifts. The culinary highlight? A daring duck tongue stir fry prepared by Megan Salazar, proving that no part of the game goes to waste. From turkey camps to mouthwatering recipes, this episode is as informative as it is entertaining. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region, from the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Guests: Megan Salazar, Todd Schaller, Eric Lobner

    44 min

  6. May 9

    From Vegan to Hunter: A Love Story

    In this heartwarming episode, hosts Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton dive into the unexpected journey of Ashlyn Whitting, a former vegan who found love and hunting through her outdoorsman partner. Ashlyn shares how their relationship, rooted in mutual respect and open dialogue, led her to embrace hunting and culinary exploration. The episode also features Shelby Christensen, who crafts art from roadkill, showcasing creative ways to utilize every part of an animal. Listeners are treated to insights on inclusive hunting programs, like women’s learn-to-hunt events, and a mouth-watering marsala turkey recipe, blending nature and nurture into a delectable feast. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County, Raised in the Woods has you covered! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Guest: Shelby Christensen

    43 min

  7. May 2

    From Roadkill to Culinary Thrills

    Many hunters share a similar origin story: an older family member or other trusted adult ushers a young child out into the wilderness to teach them the ropes. The kid might be excited by the magic of nature or the thrill of the hunt, or they may not even want to be there at first. However, growing up with a mentor in the family isn't the only way to get involved. This week, our hosts Joel Kleefisch and Chef Ellie Lawton are joined by Shelby Christensen, who shares her unique journey from collecting roadkill to becoming a hunter and crafting art from animal remnants. Her passion for using every part of the harvest is inspiring, sparking discussions on ethics and creativity. Sarah Marenes, the homesteader, adds whimsy with her love of dandelions, while Megan Salazar and the rest of the crew bring humor and camaraderie. The episode is a lively blend of outdoor adventures, culinary tips, and quirky hobbies that redefine the norm. Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County, Raised in the Woods has you covered! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Guests: Megan Salazar, Sarah Marenes, Shelby Christensen

    44 min

  8. Apr 25

    Crane Brain

    Will they or won’t they? How close is Wisconsin to expanding the species available to hunt? Hosts Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have the foremost expert on Waterfowl hunting Brad Heidel to pick his brain about what animals will make it from the field to your dinner table. Don’t worry they manage to give you reasons to laugh with and at them. Plus, as always wild game recipes from Meat man Mike and Megan Salazar the Sommelier Pirate. Don’t miss this episode of Raised in the Woods! Additional technical support by Morris Original LLC. Born in Wisconsin and making their adventurous lives here, Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton have truly been Raised in the Woods. Each week, we connect YOU to the incredible natural resources of our region. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mississippi River and Lake of the Woods to Door County, Raised in the Woods has you covered! Whether you’re looking to find new ways to take food from field to table or for new outdoor hobbies, we’ve got you covered! For information on all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows. Guests: Megan Salazar, Mike Kretschmer, Brad Heidel

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Born in Waukesha, WI and making his adventuresome life in Wisconsin, Joel Kleefisch is Raised in the Woods!  Join Joel and co-host Ellie Lawton weekly to hear their fresh perspective enjoying the great outdoors in the Midwest --and eating well afterwards. Joel served 14 years in the State Assembly, mingled with presidents,  and has traveled the world on hunting and fishing adventures. Ellie Lawton is a lifelong Midwest farm girl whose love of the outdoors and eating what she harvests led to a career feeding the masses. As a certified award winning French Chef, hunter angler, and forager, Ellie’s grocery store is the waters and woods of the midwest! 

Information

  • Creator
    Joel Kleefisch and Ellie Lawton
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    179
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Civic Media
  • Show Website
    Raised in the Woods

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