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South Africa's conservation model is under the spotlight. But are we asking the right questions? In this episode of PH Journals, I unpack a recent Daily Maverick article about Cape Town's proposed baboon sanctuary and use it as a starting point for a much bigger conversation about wildlife management, hunting and the future of conservation in South Africa. As a professional hunter, I've spent years working with wildlife and seeing firsthand what it takes to manage land, protect animals and sustain a conservation economy. I believe hunting has played an important role in creating economic incentives for landowners to protect wildlife and maintain natural habitat. So why are we sometimes so quick to question hunting's contribution to conservation, while other management approaches receive less scrutiny? In this episode, I share my personal perspective on: The proposed relocation of approximately 60 baboons into a sanctuary near Cape Town. The public funding commitments behind baboon management and the importance of financial transparency. Whether we are solving human-wildlife conflict or simply managing its consequences. My observations of baboon conflict in rural areas and why targeted management deserves consideration. The role of hunting in South Africa's conservation economy. The influence of animal-protection organisations in wildlife-management decisions. Why every conservation model should be judged on evidence, accountability, cost and long-term results. This isn't an argument that hunting is perfect or that every alternative is wrong. It's about asking whether we're giving every available management tool a fair and honest evaluation. Conservation should be about more than good intentions. It should be about measurable outcomes, sustainable funding and ensuring wildlife has a future. This is my personal opinion as a professional hunter, and I'm interested in hearing yours. Do you believe hunting should have a greater role in wildlife-management decisions? And how should we measure whether conservation funding is actually making a difference? Drop your thoughts in the comments. Disagreement is welcome — let's have an informed conversation. Subscribe to PH Journals for more conversations about hunting, conservation, wildlife and the realities of life in the field.

South Africa's conservation model is under the spotlight. But are we asking the right questions? In this episode of PH Journals, I unpack a recent Daily Maverick article about Cape Town's proposed baboon sanctuary and use it as a starting point for a much bigger conversation about wildlife management, hunting and the future of conservation in South Africa. As a professional hunter, I've spent years working with wildlife and seeing firsthand what it takes to manage land, protect animals and sustain a conservation economy. I believe hunting has played an important role in creating economic incentives for landowners to protect wildlife and maintain natural habitat. So why are we sometimes so quick to question hunting's contribution to conservation, while other management approaches receive less scrutiny? In this episode, I share my personal perspective on: The proposed relocation of approximately 60 baboons into a sanctuary near Cape Town. The public funding commitments behind baboon management and the importance of financial transparency. Whether we are solving human-wildlife conflict or simply managing its consequences. My observations of baboon conflict in rural areas and why targeted management deserves consideration. The role of hunting in South Africa's conservation economy. The influence of animal-protection organisations in wildlife-management decisions. Why every conservation model should be judged on evidence, accountability, cost and long-term results. This isn't an argument that hunting is perfect or that every alternative is wrong. It's about asking whether we're giving every available management tool a fair and honest evaluation. Conservation should be about more than good intentions. It should be about measurable outcomes, sustainable funding and ensuring wildlife has a future. This is my personal opinion as a professional hunter, and I'm interested in hearing yours. Do you believe hunting should have a greater role in wildlife-management decisions? And how should we measure whether conservation funding is actually making a difference? Drop your thoughts in the comments. Disagreement is welcome — let's have an informed conversation. Subscribe to PH Journals for more conversations about hunting, conservation, wildlife and the realities of life in the field.

Do you feel like you're behind in life? Like everyone around you is succeeding, moving forward and figuring things out while you're still trying to find your way? In this episode of Beyond the Camo, Dylan Love talks about feeling behind in life, comparing yourself to others, failure, success, starting over and the pressure we put on ourselves to have everything figured out. Social media makes it incredibly easy to compare your life to someone else's highlight reel. We see the successful businesses, the houses, the relationships, the travel and the achievements — but we rarely see the struggles, failures and uncertainty behind them. The truth is, life isn't a race. You don't have to be where someone else is. You don't have to have everything figured out. And starting again doesn't mean you've failed. Sometimes the biggest setbacks in life become the moments that change your direction completely. In this conversation, we talk about: • Feeling behind in life • Comparing yourself to other people • Social media and unrealistic expectations • Failure and starting again • Redefining success • The pressure men put on themselves • Finding purpose and direction • Learning to appreciate the chapter you're currently in • Why your timeline doesn't have to look like everyone else's You're not behind. You're on your own journey. This is Beyond the Camo — a PH Journals series about the person underneath the hunter, businessman, father and everything else we become. If this conversation means something to you, send it to someone who might need to hear it. 🎙️ PH Journals 🎥 Beyond the Camo 🇿🇦 South Africa

Do you feel like you're behind in life? Like everyone around you is succeeding, moving forward and figuring things out while you're still trying to find your way? In this episode of Beyond the Camo, Dylan Love talks about feeling behind in life, comparing yourself to others, failure, success, starting over and the pressure we put on ourselves to have everything figured out. Social media makes it incredibly easy to compare your life to someone else's highlight reel. We see the successful businesses, the houses, the relationships, the travel and the achievements — but we rarely see the struggles, failures and uncertainty behind them. The truth is, life isn't a race. You don't have to be where someone else is. You don't have to have everything figured out. And starting again doesn't mean you've failed. Sometimes the biggest setbacks in life become the moments that change your direction completely. In this conversation, we talk about: • Feeling behind in life • Comparing yourself to other people • Social media and unrealistic expectations • Failure and starting again • Redefining success • The pressure men put on themselves • Finding purpose and direction • Learning to appreciate the chapter you're currently in • Why your timeline doesn't have to look like everyone else's You're not behind. You're on your own journey. This is Beyond the Camo — a PH Journals series about the person underneath the hunter, businessman, father and everything else we become. If this conversation means something to you, send it to someone who might need to hear it. 🎙️ PH Journals 🎥 Beyond the Camo 🇿🇦 South Africa

The last client has left, the rifle gets put away and the hunting season finally comes to an end… or does it? In this solo episode of PH Journals, I break down what closing the hunting season actually looks like from both sides of the safari — the client and the Professional Hunter. From a client's perspective, there’s still plenty to take care of after leaving Africa: staying in contact with your PH, following up on trophies, dealing with taxidermy, paperwork and making sure everything from your safari is properly wrapped up. But for the PH, the work continues. It's time to reconnect with clients, check in on their experiences, follow up with taxidermists, work through paperwork, make sure your PH registration is valid, service and maintain the hunting vehicle, check equipment and start preparing and marketing for the next season. And then there's the part that is arguably the most important — knowing when to put the work down and spend quality time with your family. The season might be over, but the relationships, memories and preparation for the next one are only just beginning. Welcome to another PH Playbook.

The last client has left, the rifle gets put away and the hunting season finally comes to an end… or does it? In this solo episode of PH Journals, I break down what closing the hunting season actually looks like from both sides of the safari — the client and the Professional Hunter. From a client's perspective, there’s still plenty to take care of after leaving Africa: staying in contact with your PH, following up on trophies, dealing with taxidermy, paperwork and making sure everything from your safari is properly wrapped up. But for the PH, the work continues. It's time to reconnect with clients, check in on their experiences, follow up with taxidermists, work through paperwork, make sure your PH registration is valid, service and maintain the hunting vehicle, check equipment and start preparing and marketing for the next season. And then there's the part that is arguably the most important — knowing when to put the work down and spend quality time with your family. The season might be over, but the relationships, memories and preparation for the next one are only just beginning. Welcome to another PH Playbook.

What does it take to build a life around discipline, danger, discomfort and adventure? In this episode of PH Journals, I sit down with Travis Sloan — a man whose journey has taken him from the French Foreign Legion and private security to bowhunting, teaching and some of the wildest places on earth. But this conversation quickly became about a lot more than hunting. We talk about what the Legion taught him, why men are drawn to difficult things, the reality of operating in dangerous environments, and how that mindset eventually found its way into bowhunting and Africa. We get into the psychology behind hunting, the role of ego, why discomfort is important, what the bush does to your mind, and whether we're sometimes searching for something much deeper than an animal when we head into the wilderness. This isn't your typical hunting interview. It's a conversation about discipline, masculinity, purpose, adventure and what it means to deliberately choose the harder road. If you've ever wondered why some people actively seek out difficult experiences instead of choosing the easy life, you're going to enjoy this one. Watch. Listen. Share it with someone who needs to hear it.

What does it take to build a life around discipline, danger, discomfort and adventure? In this episode of PH Journals, I sit down with Travis Sloan — a man whose journey has taken him from the French Foreign Legion and private security to bowhunting, teaching and some of the wildest places on earth. But this conversation quickly became about a lot more than hunting. We talk about what the Legion taught him, why men are drawn to difficult things, the reality of operating in dangerous environments, and how that mindset eventually found its way into bowhunting and Africa. We get into the psychology behind hunting, the role of ego, why discomfort is important, what the bush does to your mind, and whether we're sometimes searching for something much deeper than an animal when we head into the wilderness. This isn't your typical hunting interview. It's a conversation about discipline, masculinity, purpose, adventure and what it means to deliberately choose the harder road. If you've ever wondered why some people actively seek out difficult experiences instead of choosing the easy life, you're going to enjoy this one. Watch. Listen. Share it with someone who needs to hear it.

What does it take to make a living capturing the moments hunters will remember for a lifetime? In this episode of the PH Journals Podcast, we sit down with Nick from Lens Behind the Hunt to talk about wildlife photography, hunting content creation, and what it's really like being behind the camera in the South African hunting industry. From photographing dangerous game and documenting unforgettable hunts to building a brand around your passion, Nick shares his journey and offers valuable advice for anyone looking to break into the hunting and outdoor media space. Whether you're a hunter, photographer, filmmaker, or simply passionate about conservation and the outdoors, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. In this episode we cover: Hunting photography in South Africa Building a career in outdoor media The realities of filming and photographing hunts Creating authentic hunting content Wildlife photography tips and gear The future of hunting media in South Africa Advice for aspiring hunting photographers and content creators If you've ever wondered whether there's a place for you in the hunting industry beyond pulling the trigger, this episode might just inspire your next adventure. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the podcast if you enjoyed the conversation. #PHJournals #LensBehindTheHunt #HuntingPhotography #SouthAfricanHunting #OutdoorMedia

Have you ever wondered what it takes to capture a hunt on camera? In this episode, we sit down with Nick from Lens Behind the Hunt to unpack the world of hunting videography and outdoor content creation in South Africa. Being a professional hunter isn't the only way to build a career in the hunting industry. From filming once-in-a-lifetime moments in the bush to producing world-class hunting content, there are countless opportunities for passionate outdoorsmen and women who would rather tell the story than pull the trigger. Nick shares his journey into hunting videography, the challenges of filming in the African bush, the skills required to succeed, and his advice for anyone looking to turn their passion for hunting and filmmaking into a career. In this episode, we discuss: Hunting videography in South Africa How to get started in outdoor filmmaking Capturing authentic hunting moments Working alongside professional hunters and clients The gear and mindset needed in the field Building a brand in the hunting industry Opportunities for aspiring hunting content creators The future of hunting media in Africa If you're passionate about hunting, storytelling, and creating meaningful outdoor content, this episode is for you. Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help us grow the hunting conversation around the world. #PHJournals #HuntingVideography #SouthAfricanHunting #OutdoorFilmmaking #LensBehindTheHunt

In today's episode of PH Journals, we're tackling one of the most misunderstood topics in wildlife conservation: hunting. Has emotion and popular culture poisoned the conservation conversation? Have we become so emotionally attached to certain species that we've forgotten what true conservation actually looks like? From Kruger National Park's elephant population challenges to the economic realities of wildlife management, we dive into why hunting remains one of the most important conservation tools available when practised ethically and sustainably. We discuss: Why conservation isn't free. How hunting has contributed to some of Africa's greatest wildlife success stories. The overpopulation challenges facing elephants in Kruger National Park. Why wildlife management is about ecosystems, not individual animals. The "Disney effect" and how cartoons and emotional attachments influence public opinion on conservation. Why we value certain species more than others. How sustainable hunting generates funding for conservation and rural communities. The difficult but necessary conversations surrounding population management and biodiversity. Conservation isn't about saving every individual animal at all costs. It's about protecting healthy populations, preserving habitats and ensuring that future generations inherit thriving ecosystems. Nature is brutally honest. Conservation isn't always comfortable. Sometimes the most ethical decisions are also the hardest to understand. Whether you're a hunter, conservationist or simply someone who loves wildlife, this episode will challenge you to look beyond emotion and ask a simple question: What does the ecosystem need? Don't forget to like, subscribe and share the episode if you enjoyed the conversation.

In today's episode of PH Journals, we're tackling one of the most misunderstood topics in wildlife conservation: hunting. Has emotion and popular culture poisoned the conservation conversation? Have we become so emotionally attached to certain species that we've forgotten what true conservation actually looks like? From Kruger National Park's elephant population challenges to the economic realities of wildlife management, we dive into why hunting remains one of the most important conservation tools available when practised ethically and sustainably. We discuss: Why conservation isn't free. How hunting has contributed to some of Africa's greatest wildlife success stories. The overpopulation challenges facing elephants in Kruger National Park. Why wildlife management is about ecosystems, not individual animals. The "Disney effect" and how cartoons and emotional attachments influence public opinion on conservation. Why we value certain species more than others. How sustainable hunting generates funding for conservation and rural communities. The difficult but necessary conversations surrounding population management and biodiversity. Conservation isn't about saving every individual animal at all costs. It's about protecting healthy populations, preserving habitats and ensuring that future generations inherit thriving ecosystems. Nature is brutally honest. Conservation isn't always comfortable. Sometimes the most ethical decisions are also the hardest to understand. Whether you're a hunter, conservationist or simply someone who loves wildlife, this episode will challenge you to look beyond emotion and ask a simple question: What does the ecosystem need? Don't forget to like, subscribe and share the episode if you enjoyed the conversation. #PHJournals #Conservation #Hunting #WildlifeManagement #KrugerNationalPark #ElephantConservation #SustainableHunting #AfricanWildlife

This week on the PH Journals Podcast, we're diving into one of the most overlooked yet important parts of every safari—hunting photography. The hunt may only last a few moments, but the memories captured through a photograph last a lifetime. Before the trophies arrive months later, it's the photos that transport you back to the excitement, the emotion, and the respect shared in the field. In this episode, I discuss: Why trophy photography is so important The camera gear I use in the bush, including the Sony FX30 Pro S, DJI Osmo Action 6, and even a smartphone The pros and cons of each setup Tips for creating respectful, memorable trophy photos Why every Professional Hunter should take pride in preserving a client's hunting memories Whether you're a hunter, photographer, PH, or simply love the outdoors, this episode will help you capture moments that tell the full story of the hunt. If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your favourite hunting photograph or the story behind it. We'd love to hear from you.

This week on the PH Journals Podcast, we're diving into one of the most overlooked yet important parts of every safari—hunting photography. The hunt may only last a few moments, but the memories captured through a photograph last a lifetime. Before the trophies arrive months later, it's the photos that transport you back to the excitement, the emotion, and the respect shared in the field. In this episode, I discuss: Why trophy photography is so important The camera gear I use in the bush, including the Sony FX30 Pro S, DJI Osmo Action 6, and even a smartphone The pros and cons of each setup Tips for creating respectful, memorable trophy photos Why every Professional Hunter should take pride in preserving a client's hunting memories Whether you're a hunter, photographer, PH, or simply love the outdoors, this episode will help you capture moments that tell the full story of the hunt. If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your favourite hunting photograph or the story behind it. We'd love to hear from you.

What does it really take to spend 15 years as a Professional Hunter in Africa? In this solo episode of PH Journals, I reflect on the journey that shaped me as a PH, from the early days of getting started to some of the defining moments that have influenced my approach to hunting and conservation. I also dive into one of the most important topics in the hunting world: trusting your Professional Hunter. Understanding why a PH makes certain decisions, how we assess a hunter's capabilities, and when it becomes necessary to step in and finish an animal are all critical aspects of ethical hunting and responsible game management. Whether you're an experienced hunter, a first-time safari client, or simply interested in the realities of life as a Professional Hunter, this episode provides an honest look behind the scenes of the profession. In this episode: My journey and 15 years as a Professional Hunter. Defining moments and lessons learned. Common misconceptions about professional hunting. Why trust between hunter and PH is essential. How a PH evaluates a hunter's abilities. Knowing when a Professional Hunter should take over to ensure an ethical recovery. Advice for aspiring Professional Hunters and hunters alike. If you enjoy hunting stories, African safaris, conservation, and authentic conversations from the bush, make sure to subscribe to PH Journals and join the journey.