The Mountain Dude Podcast

Initial Ascent
  • 5.0 (43)
  • 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. How to Consistently Kill Spring Bears (Real Tactics That Work) with SteepKuntry Outdoors

    3D AGO

    How to Consistently Kill Spring Bears (Real Tactics That Work) with SteepKuntry Outdoors

    Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast presented by Initial Ascent, we welcome back Richard Bettencourt from SteepKuntry Outdoors for a deep dive into spring bear hunting in Idaho. This conversation goes far beyond just hunting. We break down the realities of predator hunting, the misconceptions around bear baiting, and why it remains one of the most effective tools for conservation and managing elk and deer populations. Richard shares years of hard-earned experience—from dialing in bait sites and understanding bear behavior to the mental and physical demands of consistently showing up in the mountains. We get into the details that separate successful hunters from the rest: thermals, scent control, trail cameras, and how small adjustments can completely change your results. If you’ve ever thought bear hunting was simple, this episode will change your perspective. What We Cover Why hunting predators feels different The truth about bear baiting and “cheating” How to consistently find and pattern bears Predator management and its role in conservation Lessons that translate directly to elk hunting The mindset behind becoming a better hunter Follow SteepKuntry Outdoors YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SteepKuntryOutdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steepkuntry_outdoors Presented By Initial Ascent Built for those who demand more in the backcountry. Explore pack systems and gear: https://initialascent.com Support the Podcast If you enjoy the show: Subscribe to the channel Leave a review Share this episode with someone who hunts 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 9m
  2. “You Don’t Lose—You Learn” | The Mindset That Changed Everything for Dark Energy

    MAR 24

    “You Don’t Lose—You Learn” | The Mindset That Changed Everything for Dark Energy

    Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Garrett Aida, founder of Dark Energy, to dive deep into the mindset, struggle, and relentless pursuit behind building one of the toughest power systems in the outdoor industry. Garrett shares how a need for reliable, bombproof power in the backcountry led him to create Dark Energy from the ground up—starting with nothing but frustration, grit, and a mission to solve a real problem. From early failures and near quitting, to building products trusted by hunters, military, and serious outdoorsmen, this conversation is packed with lessons that go far beyond gear. We get into the crossover between hunting and entrepreneurship, how the mountain builds mental toughness, and why learning (not suffering) is the real key to success. If you’re a hunter, business owner, or someone chasing something bigger—this one hits. In this episode: The origin story behind Dark Energy Why most power systems fail in the backcountry Lessons from years of failure and persistence Hunting as a tool for personal growth The mindset required to win in business and life New product innovations from Dark Energy Key Takeaways: “There’s no win or lose—you either win or learn to win later.” Mastering the mountain translates directly to mastering business Stress is often self-created—and controllable Success comes from stacking thousands of lessons, not shortcuts Check Out Dark Energy: https://darkenergy.com 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

    58 min
  3. The Real Story Behind Building a Hunting Channel | Samong Yang

    MAR 17

    The Real Story Behind Building a Hunting Channel | Samong Yang

    Got questions? Send us a text! On this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Samong Yang of Samong Outdoors to talk about his journey from a kid filming backyard chickens on an iPod Touch to becoming one of the most respected public land hunting creators on YouTube. Samong shares the powerful story of his family immigrating to the United States after the Secret War in Laos and how hunting has always been part of his family’s survival and culture. From growing up hunting in Washington to navigating the early days of social media content creation, Samong opens up about the challenges, doubts, and faith that shaped his path.  samong We dive into the realities behind building a hunting channel, the struggles of trying to turn passion into a career, and why honesty and integrity matter when sharing hunts online. Samong also talks about taking the leap to pursue YouTube full time, the mentors and companies that helped him along the way, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can change everything. This conversation goes far beyond hunting. It’s about faith, perseverance, community, and staying true to who you are while chasing something bigger. If you’re a hunter, content creator, entrepreneur, or someone trying to pursue a dream, this episode will hit home. Topics in this Episode • Growing up in a Hmong hunting family • Filming the first videos on an iPod Touch • Building a hunting YouTube channel from scratch • The fear of quitting vs pushing forward • Faith and purpose in the hunting industry • Being honest about mistakes and bad shots • Why community matters in the outdoor space • The future of Samong Outdoors Follow Samong Yang YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@SamongOutdoors Instagram https://www.instagram.com/y_outside Podcast Samong Outdoors Podcast Partners of the Mountain Dude Podcast Initial Ascent https://initialascent.com Dark Energy https://darkenergy.com Listen to the Mountain Dude Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify Mountain Dude Podcast Where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life. This is the Mountain Dude Podcast where we climb higher together. 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

    45 min
  4. From Combat Control to Building On Glass | Zach Adams

    MAR 10

    From Combat Control to Building On Glass | Zach Adams

    Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Zach Adams, owner and founder of On Glass Adapter, to talk about the journey from elite military service to launching an innovative hunting brand. Zach shares his path from growing up in Colorado to becoming an Air Force Combat Controller, the mental grit required to make it through selection and pipeline training, and how those same principles carried over into entrepreneurship. We dive into: • The reality of Air Force Special Operations and the Combat Control pipeline • Lessons learned from deployment and high-level training • His transition from active duty into engineering school at Boise State • The origin story behind On Glass Adapter • The challenges of prototyping, product iteration, and building a brand from scratch • Why listening to customer feedback matters • What’s next for On Glass in 2026 If you’re into backcountry hunting, entrepreneurship, product design, or just want to hear a powerful story of grit and persistence — this episode is for you. Zach’s story is a reminder that success isn’t complicated… it’s consistency, discipline, and refusing to quit. About On Glass Adapter On Glass Adapter is an innovative optics mounting system designed to simplify filming and glassing in the field. Built for hunters who demand efficiency, durability, and clean design, On Glass eliminates the need for bulky phone cases while keeping your setup streamlined and field-ready. Learn more here: 👉 https://onglassadapter.com Follow On Glass on Instagram: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/onglass_adapter Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 03:00 – Air Force Combat Control & selection 17:00 – Deployments & life lessons from the military 24:00 – Getting into backcountry archery hunting 32:00 – The origin of On Glass Adapter 40:00 – Prototyping, feedback, and business growth 55:45 – Advice for young entrepreneurs 57:00 – Rapid fire If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to: • Subscribe to the channel • Leave a 5-star review • Share this episode with a friend • Download the episode to support the show This is the Mountain Dude Podcast — where we climb higher together. 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

    59 min
  5. He Missed an Elk at 27 Yards… Then Everything Changed w/ Guy Duplantier

    MAR 3

    He Missed an Elk at 27 Yards… Then Everything Changed w/ Guy Duplantier

    Got questions? Send us a text! In this powerful episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with Guy Duplantier, the voice behind Western Contours Podcast, for one of the most raw and transparent conversations we’ve had around the Mountain Dude table. From growing up in Inglewood, California during the height of inner-city chaos to discovering bowhunting as a self-taught adult, Guy shares how stepping into the mountains reshaped his identity, humbled his pride, and ultimately led him into a life-changing surrender to Christ. This episode isn’t just about hunting — it’s about transformation. We dive into: Learning to bowhunt alone with no mentor and enduring years of failure The brutal lessons of solo backcountry hunts How the mountains became his “church” The moment that shifted his faith walk forever Surrender, baptism, and becoming a new man at 50 Why hunting strips away ego and builds real humility What it means to put God first in your business, family, and daily life Guy’s testimony is honest, unfiltered, and deeply relatable. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, new to faith, or just trying to figure out your next step in life — this one will hit home. If this episode speaks to you, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with someone who might need it. Follow Guy here: Instagram: @westerncontours This episode is powered by Dark Energy — fueling the show as we take it on the road. This is the Mountain Dude Podcast… where we climb higher together. 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
  6. Shrink the Mountain | Brian Barney at Western Hunt Expo

    FEB 24

    Shrink the Mountain | Brian Barney at Western Hunt Expo

    Got questions? Send us a text! Recorded live at the Western Hunt Expo in Salt Lake City, this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast features a powerful, in-person conversation with Brian Barney about what it truly takes to build consistency in the mountains — and in life. Brian has archery hunted for 21 straight years and consistently punches tags on public land, easy-to-draw units. But this conversation goes deeper than hunting success. We talk about: Why mental toughness is built daily — not flipped on in September Wrestling, grit, and carrying discipline into adulthood Training seven days a week to become a true mountain athlete VO2 max, strength work, mobility, and recovery Why nutrition and sleep are performance multipliers Handling business and family responsibilities so you can hunt with peace of mind Finding your “why” so quitting is never an option Brian breaks down what it means to “shrink mountains” — preparing your body and mind so thoroughly that 5,000–7,000 vertical feet and 15-mile days become repeatable. More importantly, we discuss the bigger picture: How you do one thing is how you do everything. Communication at home. Leadership in business. Intentional time with your family. Enjoying the grind — not just the grip and grin. Because the truth is, consistent success in the mountains starts long before season opens. This episode is powered by Dark Energy. We ran the Poseidon XL to keep our cameras, audio gear, and production equipment charged throughout the expo and while traveling. If you’re hunting, scouting, or creating content off-grid, reliable power is non-negotiable. 👉 Check them out here: https://darkenergy.com 👉 Gear used: Poseidon XL If you want to become more disciplined, more prepared, and more dangerous in the backcountry — this episode will light a fire. This is the Mountain Dude Podcast — where we climb higher together. 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

    34 min
  7. How to Become a Better Shooter for Hunting Season w/ Rodger Holscher

    FEB 17

    How to Become a Better Shooter for Hunting Season w/ Rodger Holscher

    Got questions? Send us a text! Rodger is officially the first repeat guest on the Mountain Dude Podcast — and there’s no one better to bring back. In this episode, we dive deep into what it actually takes to become a better marksman in real hunting scenarios. Not just shooting groups at the range — but making ethical, confident shots when it matters most. Roger and I have spent more time on the mountain together than anyone else, and I’ve personally seen him make shots that most hunters simply can’t. This episode is about discipline. It’s about preparation. It’s about filling tags in 2026. If you want to become more lethal, more consistent, and more confident when the moment comes — this one’s for you. We also get into: – The difference between range shooting and hunting shooting – Mental composure in high-pressure scenarios – Why saying “yes” opens doors in life and hunting – Faith, friendship, and why we start every episode with prayer – Off-season discipline and how it translates to success This is the Mountain Dude Podcast — where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life. If this episode helps you, share it with a buddy you hunt with. Subscribe for more conversations that help us all climb higher together. 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 5m
  8. Biggest Gear Launch Ever | New Packs, Duffels & Accessories Revealed

    FEB 10

    Biggest Gear Launch Ever | New Packs, Duffels & Accessories Revealed

    Got questions? Send us a text! In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we pull back the curtain on the largest product launch in Initial Ascent history. If you’ve ever wondered what actually goes into designing premium hunting and backcountry gear, this episode is a full behind-the-scenes look. We break down years of development, real-world testing across the globe, and the feedback that shaped every detail of these new products. You’ll get an exclusive first look at the Sawtooth Duffel Series (40L, 70L, and 100L), the all-new Scout Pack, major upgrades to the EDC, and several brand-new accessories designed to make life in the field safer, simpler, and more efficient. This episode was recorded ahead of the Western Hunt Expo, making this the first public reveal of gear that thousands of hunters will soon be running in the field. 🔥 What We Cover in This Episode • Why Initial Ascent redesigned the modern duffel from the ground up • How six rounds of prototypes led to the Sawtooth Duffel • The Scout Pack and why it may become IA’s most popular pack • New EDC updates driven entirely by customer feedback • Innovative accessories including ammo storage, shoulder pouches, and safety gear • How Initial Ascent approaches product design, durability, and real-world use • A special giveaway for podcast listeners 🏔️ Explore the Gear & Pre-Order All of the products discussed in this episode are available during the presale window. 👉 Shop all new releases here: https://initialascent.com 👉 Learn more about Initial Ascent pack systems: https://initialascent.com/collections/packs 👉 Browse accessories and add-ons: https://initialascent.com/collections/accessories 🎧 Don’t Forget the Giveaway Leave a 5-star review with a comment on the podcast to be entered to win a Hunter Orange Cub, one of Initial Ascent’s most versatile and safety-focused accessories. The winner will be announced in early March. This is the Mountain Dude Podcast — where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life. Keep your eyes on the summit. We’ll see you in the next one. 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

    48 min
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5
out of 5
43 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
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Mountain Dude Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Mountain Dude Podcast

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