Hunting Matters

Joe Betar

Hunting Matters is an award-winning podcast celebrating the wonders of the great outdoors.Join host Joe Betar, Executive Director of Houston Safari Club Foundation, as he delves into captivating discussions with a diverse array of guests. From hunting and fishing to sport shooting, conservation, policy, and even culinary arts, this podcast covers it all. Available on all major podcast platforms—subscribe, listen, rate, and review!

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 256: A Cowboy in the Woods featuring Wayne T. Saunders

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Wayne T. Saunders, retired Lieutenant Conservation Officer with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and current Executive Director of International Wildlife Crimestoppers. We dive into Wayne’s distinguished 23-year career patrolling New Hampshire’s rugged Great North Woods and his lifelong dedication to protecting natural resources. The discussion details how Wayne found his "calling" at the age of six after a life-changing childhood encounter with a game warden on an old logging road. Wayne recounts his journey beginning in 1995, building a reputation for relentless dedication while apprehending poachers, leading search and rescue missions, and rising through the ranks. He also bravely shares the story of being shot in the line of duty in 1997 while attempting to apprehend a murderer, and his resilient return to service. Finally, we explore how retirement has not slowed him down. We discuss his work as founder and host of the Warden’s Watch Podcast, his role mentoring the next generation as Conservation Law Coordinator at White Mountains Community College, and his children's book A Cowboy in the Woods. Wayne shares insights on the global fight against wildlife crime and his enduring mission to advocate for ethical conservation. Learn more about International Wildlife Crimestoppers and Wayne's work: Website: https://wildlifecrimestoppers.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildlifecrimestoppers YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCC7t1DEomJnfX8LtwI_8cQ Houston Safari Club Foundation: https://wehuntwegive.org/

    1h 3m

  2. May 26

    Episode 255: Redefining the Optics Industry-Jon Allen on Faith, Family, and TRACT Optics

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Jon Allen, Co-Founder of TRACT Optics. We dive into Jon’s decades-long career in the sporting optics industry and explore how his early roles at Gart Bros. Sporting Goods, Redfield, and Nikon shaped his vision for premium, performance-driven gear. Born in Washington and raised across Utah and Colorado, Jon’s childhood exploring the Rocky Mountains sparked a lifelong calling to the outdoors. The discussion details his journey through the ranks of the optics business—from mastering manufacturing and engineering at Redfield to serving as General Manager at Nikon—before ultimately breaking away from the corporate world to launch TRACT Optics with co-founder Jon LaCorte. We explore how they disrupted the industry by building a direct-to-consumer model focused 100% on the needs of the outdoor enthusiast. Finally, we explore Jon's personal side, discussing the vital role his family and faith play in his life and business culture. We delve into his guiding philosophy of putting the customer first and his enduring dedication to providing hunters and outdoorsmen with unmatched quality, value, and product support. Learn more about TRACT Optics: Website: https://tractoptics.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tractoptics/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tract_optics/X (Twitter): https://x.com/TractOpticsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe1yLBCLXbxFUGYnvY1nCbAHouston Safari Club Foundation: https://wehuntwegive.org/

    55 min

  3. Mar 30

    Episode 254: Kevin Comiskey on Career, Community Service, and the Outdoors

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined in studio by Kevin Comiskey, Senior VP and Partner at Brady, Chapman, Holland & Associates. We dive into Kevin's 25-year career at the firm and how his early roles at American Linen, Silver Eagle Distributors, and Trinity Industries shaped his approach to leadership. Raised in Houston, Kevin attended Colorado State University and worked in Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota before returning to Texas. The discussion explores his deep commitment to wildlife conservation, serving as a Life Member, Past President of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF), and current Executive Committee member and Convention Chairman for the Texas Wildlife Association. Additionally, Kevin is a long-time volunteer for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Finally, we explore Kevin's personal side, discussing his life with his wife Amy, their three sons, and German Shorthaired Pointer. We delve into their family's retreat at Rocking C South Ranch in Cotulla, Texas, discussing the values of stewardship and the family's shared love of hunting and sporting clays. Houston Safari Club Foundation: https://wehuntwegive.org/

    1h 1m

  4. Mar 16

    Episode 253: Storytelling, Stewardship, and the Son of a Blitch

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined in studio by George Bowe Blitch, a fifth-generation Texan whose life and career defy a single job title. As the host of the Son of a Blitch Podcast, George has become a leading voice in long-form storytelling, uncovering the personal journeys of extraordinary people across the worlds of hunting, conservation, music, and adventure. From his early days documenting Indigenous elders with National Geographic writer Harvey Arden to his time as a touring musician and wildlife manager, George’s path has been driven by a singular belief: the world is full of fascinating stories that deserve to be told. We trace George’s deep-rooted connection to the land, exploring how his upbringing in ranching and the outdoors shaped his views on responsibility and stewardship. George shares the evolution of his businesses, Map My Ranch and American Made Maps, which grew from a personal project mapping his own family ranch into a nationwide service that helps landowners and wildlife managers better understand and conserve their properties. The conversation dives deep into the importance of cultural preservation, including George’s historical research into figures like Bob Lemmons and the role of private landowners in the future of wildlife conservation. Whether discussing the nuances of a great interview or the technical detail required to map a working ranch, George offers a masterclass in curiosity-driven living. Finally, we explore the wisdom George has gained from a life spent at the intersection of hunting traditions and creative pursuits, offering a unique perspective on what truly makes a person—and a story—interesting. Websites: SonofaBlitch.com MapMyRanch.com AmericanMadeMaps.com YouTube | Instagram | Facebook Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

    1h 8m

  5. Mar 9

    Episode 252: Life Well-Hunted: 50 Years of Business and Global Sporting with John Toomey

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined in studio by John Toomey, a legendary Houstonian whose life spans nearly a century of business leadership, civic service, and international sporting. Born in 1928, John moved to Houston in 1930 and eventually built a career that successfully bridged the worlds of law, hospitality, and the automotive industry. From practicing law for 30 years to operating iconic Houston staples like Coney Island off the Square and his current involvement with J-Bar-M BBQ, John offers a masterclass in entrepreneurial longevity. We trace John’s professional journey from his academic years at the University of Houston, where he earned both business and law degrees in the early 1950s, to his deep-rooted commitment to his alma mater as a former Alumni Association President. John also shares reflections on his time serving in the Texas Air National Guard and the United States Air Force, discussing how military discipline influenced his approach to governance and business. The conversation dives deep into John’s lifelong passion for the outdoors, beginning with his first hunt in Alpine, Texas, in 1957. Alongside his best friend, Fr. Richard A. Houlahan, John traversed the globe—from the bird fields of Mexico and Argentina to big game pursuits in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania. He provides a unique perspective on how international hunting has shaped his views on conservation and the profound spiritual and social value of the sporting life. Finally, we explore the wisdom gained from 97 years of living, as John reflects on the importance of family, service, and building a legacy that transcends professional success. John offers invaluable advice for the next generation of entrepreneurs and outdoorsmen on how to craft a truly meaningful  life. Websites: J-Bar-M BBQ J-Bar-M Facebook J-Bar-M Instagram Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

    51 min

  6. Mar 2

    Episode 251: Demystifying the South African Safari Experience with Steve Schwartz and Larry Hope

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Steve Schwartz, the owner and outfitter of Nkwazi Safaris, and his client, Larry Hope. Steve represents a second-generation family hunting operation established in 1999. Born and raised in Johannesburg, he transitioned from a career in exercise science and outdoor videography to carry forward his family’s legacy in the South African bush. Joining him in the studio is Larry Hope, a Houston-based business owner and dedicated hunter who has spent the last 28 years making up for a "late start" in the field. We trace Steve’s professional journey from his early days in a hunting family to his role as a member of the Custodians of Professional Hunting in South Africa and HSCF. Steve shares how his background in personal training and filmmaking has shaped his approach to being a Professional Hunter and how he uses his YouTube channel, Nkwazi’s South African Hunting Journal, to document the intersection of hunting and conservation. The conversation dives deep into the practical realities of the African safari, tackling common misconceptions regarding costs, international travel with firearms, and health concerns like malaria and local wildlife. Larry provides a firsthand client perspective on what it is like to book multiple trips with the same outfitter and how his expectations shifted once he arrived on the ground in South Africa. Finally, we explore advanced insights for the traveling hunter, from the nuances of shot placement on African game to the logistics of taxidermy and trophy shipping. Steve and Larry offer "pro tips" for first-time hunters, emphasizing the importance of communication with a PH and staying flexible with one's wish list. We conclude with a look at what keeps Steve passionate about guiding after all these years and his advice for anyone still on the fence about booking their first African adventure. Websites: Nkwazi SafarisNkwazi's South African Hunting Journal (YouTube)Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

    1h 8m

  7. Feb 23

    Episode 250: A Lifetime of Conservation with Ross Melinchuk

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Ross Melinchuk, a titan in the natural resources field with over 40 years of experience. Currently serving as the Executive Director of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) and a Vice President on the HSCF Board of Directors, Ross brings a wealth of knowledge spanning international borders and multi-state jurisdictions. We trace Ross’s professional journey from his early days as a wildlife biologist in Saskatchewan to his influential roles with Ducks Unlimited, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and the National Wild Turkey Federation. Ross shares how working at the intersection of biological science and public policy has shaped his conservation philosophy and his approach to leading large-scale environmental initiatives. The conversation dives deep into the pressing issues facing conservation in 2026, including the regional challenges of the Southeastern U.S. and the sustainability of current funding models built on license sales and excise taxes. We explore the critical importance of Hunter Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) and discuss which strategies are effectively moving the needle for the next generation of outdoorsmen and women. Finally, we get personal with Ross’s own hunting heritage. An avid hunter who has pursued game from Alaska to Namibia, Ross reflects on how his time in the field—including seasons spent on his own deer lease—informs his leadership and his vision for the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. We look ahead to the next 20 years to define what true success looks like for North American wildlife and the essential role hunters must continue to play. Websites: SEAFWA Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

    1h 8m

  8. Feb 16

    Episode 249: Restoring the Wild: Breeding, Rewilding, and Sustainable Conservation with Tanner Tripp

    In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Tanner Tripp, the visionary founder of Wild Giants Conservation Fund (U.S.) and Wild Giants Caucasus. Drawing from six years of experience in the adventure travel and tourism industry in Amsterdam, Tanner has developed a unique perspective on how to bridge the gap between international travelers, local communities, and wildlife restoration. We delve into the core mission of Wild Giants, exploring why the restoration of keystone species is the critical engine behind healthy, functional ecosystems. Tanner walks us through his innovative breeding and rewilding programs in the Republic of Georgia, explaining what drew him to the unique wildlife history of the Caucasus region and why this landscape matters on a global scale. The conversation also tackles the vital intersection of economics and ethics in modern conservation. Tanner discusses his goal of moving beyond perpetual fundraising toward a self-sustaining financial model that integrates eco-tourism, breeding centers, and regulated hunting. He shares how job creation in remote communities is not just a byproduct, but a necessity for long-term conservation success, ensuring that local people see tangible value in the wildlife surrounding them. Finally, we look toward the future of "making wild places wild again". Tanner reflects on the cultural and logistical challenges of launching international programs and defines what scalability looks like for a conservation model designed to be applied to landscapes across the globe. Websites: www.wildgiants.orgInstagram: @wildgiantsconservationYouTube: @WildGiantsConservationLearn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

    1h 1m
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About

Hunting Matters is an award-winning podcast celebrating the wonders of the great outdoors.Join host Joe Betar, Executive Director of Houston Safari Club Foundation, as he delves into captivating discussions with a diverse array of guests. From hunting and fishing to sport shooting, conservation, policy, and even culinary arts, this podcast covers it all. Available on all major podcast platforms—subscribe, listen, rate, and review!

Information

  • Creator
    Joe Betar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Hunting Matters
  • Show Website
    Hunting Matters