The Wild Fish and Game Podcast explores wild food at the intersection of place, season, culture, and craft. Hosted by Justin Townsend and the Harvesting Nature team, the show goes beyond recipes and hunting stories to examine how food is grown, harvested, preserved, and carried through real life.
Each episode dives into the whole wild food system, from hunting, fishing, and foraging to butchery, preservation, and cooking, while asking more profound questions about sustainability, tradition, and how people have continuously fed themselves from the land. Along the way, Justin and his co-hosts are joined by chefs, hunters, foragers, biologists, writers, and cultural knowledge-keepers who help connect ecology to the table.
Whether discussing regional foodscapes, seasonal harvests, preservation techniques, or modern wild-food culture, the Wild Fish and Game Podcast is about learning to eat with the land rather than against it.
Harvesting Nature is a wild food media company dedicated to education, conservation, and self-reliance through hunting, fishing, and foraging.
Questions, feedback, and guest suggestions can be sent to [email protected].
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Check latest episodes from Wild Fish and Game Podcast podcast
On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating
2026/04/21
Summary:
Explore the ethical considerations of eating and killing in the context of hunting, food production, and environmental impact. Blake Binford shares insights from his book 'On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating', discussing how distance from nature influences our perceptions and responsibilities.
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Links:
On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Wild Food and Perspectives
02:50 Personal Journey and the Role of Food
06:13 The Ethics of Eating and Protein Sources
08:58 Wild Game and Its Nutritional Value
11:56 Revisiting Perspectives on Food Production
15:02 The Cost of Living: Death and Consumption
17:47 Understanding Clean vs. Violent Food
20:59 The Distance of Modern Life from Nature
23:59 Moral Relief and Responsibility in Food Choices
27:06 Access to Food and Public Lands
30:12 Ethical Considerations of Distance in Food Production
32:17 Understanding the Cost of Consumption
39:28 Ethics of Hunting and Awareness
50:25 Moral Math in Food Choices
56:46 Honest Eating and Personal Responsibility
Takeaways:
The concept that living requires death and its implications
The impact of modern life and distance from nature on food ethics
The idea of moral responsibility following the act of killing
The relationship between hunting, food production, and environmental conservation
The concept of kill count per calorie as a moral math model
Keywords:
Ethics of killing, hunting, food sustainability, environmental impact, moral responsibility, wild game, food waste, conservation, food ethics, natural world
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Episode 271: The Wild Pantry, Part III - Dehydrating and Drying
2026/04/14
Summary:
Explore the ancient and modern techniques of drying and dehydrating food, its scientific principles, and practical applications in wild food lifestyle. Learn how to preserve, enhance, and utilize wild ingredients through drying methods.
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Recipes:
Lone Star Jerky
Maple Whisky Trout Jerky
How to Make Heart Jerky
Kimi’s Kitchen Cookbook
Chapters:
00:00 The Art of Drying: A Historical Perspective
03:10 Scientific Principles of Drying Food
06:09 Modern Techniques for Food Drying
08:57 Safety and Nutritional Aspects of Dried Foods
12:14 Practical Applications: Drying Wild Game and Fish
24:29 The Art of Drying Mushrooms
27:45 Exploring Dehydrated Ingredients
30:04 Jerky: A Versatile Snack
32:50 Creative Jerky Recipes
36:05 Innovative Drying Techniques
39:02 Mushroom Drying Essentials
42:29 Cured and Smoked Fish Recipes
Takeaways:
History and cultural significance of drying food
Scientific principles behind drying and water activity
Techniques and equipment for drying food at home
Food safety considerations in drying and dehydrating
Enhancing flavor and nutrition through drying
Keywords:
Food preservation, drying, dehydrating, wild food, food science, jerky, mushrooms, fish, food safety, culinary techniques
Added clips:
How Does Freeze Drying Work?
Safely Dehydrating and Freeze Drying Foods
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Episode 270: The Wild Harvest Report - April 2026
2026/04/09
Summary:
A comprehensive overview of April's seasonal activities across North America, focusing on hunting, fishing, foraging, and cooking wild foods. The report highlights regional differences, key species in season, and practical tips for outdoor enthusiasts and cooks.
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Wild Harvesting and Seasonal Changes
01:07 April's Momentum: Spring Awakens
02:35 Southeast Fishing and Foraging Insights
04:01 Deep South: Refining Patterns in Nature
05:25 Rocky Mountain Transitions: Spring's Arrival
06:51 Midwest: Ice Out and New Opportunities
07:22 Northeast: Transitioning into Spring
08:25 Canada's April: A Month of Transition
09:08 Foraging Summary and Kitchen Reflections
Takeaways:
Seasonal wildlife activity in April
Regional differences in hunting and fishing
Foraging for wild greens and mushrooms
Cooking with fresh wild ingredients
Keywords:
Wild food, hunting, fishing, foraging, spring season, North America, wildlife, recipes, conservation, outdoor activities
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Wild Game Is More Than Protein
2026/03/31
Summary:
This episode explores the full value of wild animals beyond just protein, emphasizing traditional and cultural uses of all animal parts, including fat, marrow, organs, and connective tissues. It highlights how modern diets and hunting practices can benefit from a holistic approach to animal utilization.
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Chapters:
00:00 The Value of the Whole Animal
02:05 Cultural Shifts in Protein Consumption
05:25 Historical Perspectives on Animal Parts
09:26 The Importance of Fat and Connective Tissue
18:28 Nutritional Insights Beyond Muscle Meat
25:30 The Broader Nutritional Spectrum
32:03 Practical Applications in Cooking
Takeaways:
Full animal utilization in hunting and cooking
Historical and cultural perspectives on animal parts
Nutritional benefits of offal, marrow, and connective tissue
Keywords:
Wild game, full animal utilization, traditional cuisine, connective tissue, collagen, offal, nutrition, hunting, cooking techniques
References:
International Food Information Council — 2023 Food & Health Survey
USDA — Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Vilhjalmur Stefansson — The Fat of the Land
Cordain et al., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition — Evolutionary diets research
Khatri M, et al. 2021. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review.
Campos LD, et al. 2023. Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature.
Latoch A, et al. 2024. Edible Offal as a Valuable Source of Nutrients in the Diet—A Review.
Fuerniss HF, et al. 2024. Nutrient Analysis of Raw United States Beef Offal Items.
Joy JM, et al. 2024. A Review on Fish Skin-Derived Gelatin.
de Paz-Lugo P, et al. 2018. High glycine concentration increases collagen synthesis…McCarty MF, et al. 2018. Dietary Glycine Is Rate-Limiting for Glutathione Synthesis…
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Wild American Foodscapes - Newfoundland
2026/03/24
Summary:
Justin and Adam explore Newfoundland's unique food landscape shaped by environmental constraints, historical fishing practices, and cultural resilience. From wild fish and seal to the impact of ecological management and market forces, discover how this remote island balances abundance with sustainability.
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Special Guests
Mark Kurlansky
Lori McCarthy
Jenn Shears
Chapters
00:00 The Landscape of Newfoundland's Food System
02:09 Historical Context of Indigenous Food Practices
04:58 The Impact of European Arrival on Food Systems
07:05 The Role of Seal in Newfoundland's Culture and Economy
10:47 Wildlife Management and Public Perception
13:10 The Nutritional Value of Seal Meat
16:59 The Collapse of the Cod Fishery and Its Aftermath
21:46 Migration and Shifts in Food Systems
24:13 Resilience and Continuity in Food Practices
26:56 Sustainable Eating in Newfoundland
Takeaways:
Environmental constraints shaping food systems
Historical and cultural significance of fishing and hunting
Impact of policies on local food and economy
Keywords:
Newfoundland, wild food, seal hunting, cod fishery, sustainable fishing, food culture, ecological management, wild game, food preservation, ocean health
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What If the Grocery Stores Didn’t Open Tomorrow?
2026/03/10
Summary:
Explore the fragility of our food systems and the importance of community resilience. This episode examines historical and modern disruptions to food supply, the interconnectedness of grocery stores, and how hunters and individuals can prepare for potential crises.
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Chapters:
00:00 The Thought Experiment: What if Grocery Stores Closed?
02:08 Historical Stress Tests: The Great Depression and WWII
04:00 COVID-19 and the Distribution Shock
06:14 The Ecosystem of Grocery Supply Chains
07:28 Personal Food Security: What Do You Have?
08:27 The Global Network Behind Local Groceries
11:16 Relying on Pantry Staples and Local Food
13:45 The Importance of Seeds and Salt for Resilience
15:01 Environmental Factors and Food Accessibility
16:44 Week One: Managing Food with Pantry and Freezer
17:34 Hunters and Overharvesting Risks
19:26 Wildlife and Ecosystem Impact of Food Crises
21:24 Human Behavior and Law in Crisis Situations
24:10 The Limits of Hunting and Food Independence
27:36 Long-Term Food Scarcity and Agriculture Challenges
30:29 Traditional Food Preservation Techniques
32:20 Reviving Cultural Food Skills for Resilience
36:28 Community Over Individualism in Crises
39:18 The Future of Food Security and Cultural Memory
Takeaways:
Our food system works because it operates constantly; any interruption cracks the foundation.
Grocery stores are complex ecosystems, not just buildings, reliant on global logistics and infrastructure.
In crises, reliance on local skills like hunting, gardening, and food preservation becomes crucial.
Community cooperation and shared knowledge are key to resilience in food security.
Practicing traditional food preservation techniques strengthens cultural memory and preparedness.
Keywords:
Food security, grocery stores, resilience, hunting, self-reliance, supply chain, community, wild food, crisis preparedness, sustainability
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The Wild Harvest Report - March 2026
2026/03/03
Summary:
The March Food for Field Bulletin discusses the seasonal shifts in hunting, fishing, and foraging across North America, highlighting the transition from winter to spring. It covers regional variations in wildlife activity, migration patterns, and culinary adaptations as fresh ingredients become available.
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Recipes:
Green Chile Snow Goose Burgers
Korean Snow Goose Potstickers (Mandu)
Instant Pot “Pot Likker” Venison and Spring Greens
Braised Duck Soupy Rice with Chopped Greens and Mushrooms
Stewed Dandelion Greens with Chickpeas and ‘Nduja
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to March's Wild Harvest Report
03:06 Southeast and Deep South Seasonal Changes
05:52 Southwest and Rockies: Transitioning Conditions
09:14 Pacific Northwest and Midwest Migration Patterns
09:47 Northeast and Canada: Winter's Last Grasp
Takeaways:
March is a transition month for wildlife and foragers.
Turkey season opens in parts of the Southeast.
Predator movement increases with breeding seasons.
Peak snow goose migration occurs in March.
Wind affects hunting and fishing strategies.
March is wet in the Pacific Northwest, aiding productivity.
Snow goose conservation seasons dominate in the Midwest.
Ice fishing continues where conditions are safe.
Culinary practices shift from winter to spring ingredients.
March is a transitional kitchen month, blending old and new.
Keywords:
March, hunting, fishing, foraging, seasonal shifts, wildlife, migration, cooking, conservation
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The Wild Pantry, Part II - Salting and Curing
2026/02/26
Summary
In this episode, Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans explore the ancient art of food preservation through salting and curing. They discuss the historical significance of salting, the science behind how it works, and practical applications for home cooks. The conversation delves into the unique considerations for salting fish, the impact of salt on texture and flavor, and the importance of precision in curing. They emphasize that while salting and curing can enhance food, they require careful attention and quality ingredients. The episode concludes with a focus on integrating these techniques into a modern wild pantry approach.
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Links
How To: DIY Cure Chamber
Chapters
00:00 The Art of Food Preservation
05:19 Understanding the Science of Salting
13:23 Practical Applications of Salting at Home
21:09 Salting Fish: Unique Considerations
29:42 The Impact of Salting on Texture and Flavor
37:27 Curing and Salting: A Wild Pantry Approach
Takeaways
You can preserve food without electricity.
Salting was historically about keeping food stable, not just flavor.
Curing requires precision and measurement, not guesswork.
Salt controls water activity, inhibiting microbial growth.
Dry brining is an accessible method for home cooks.
Fish responds to salt faster than red meat.
Curing and salting require attention and intention.
Quality of ingredients is crucial for successful curing.
Salt can enhance flavor and texture in cooking.
Freezing and salting are complementary preservation methods.
Keywords
Food preservation, curing, salting, wild game, fish, home cooking, food safety, preservation methods, salting science, wild pantry
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Wild American Foodscapes - Hawai'i
2026/02/19
Summary
Justin and Adam are joined by several guests for a conversation exploring the intricate relationship between food and culture in Hawaii, emphasizing the historical significance of traditional practices, the impact of introduced species, and ongoing efforts to revive indigenous food systems. They highlight the importance of sustainability, stewardship, and the cultural memory embedded in food practices, while addressing the challenges posed by modern dependency on imported food.
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Special Guests
Lei Wann
Kealoha Domingo
Audrey Wilson
Chapters
00:00 The Ancient Connection of Food and Land in Hawaii
01:23 Understanding Hawaii's Food Landscape
02:15 The Significance of Taro and Poi
04:11 Polynesian Agricultural Innovations
06:24 The Impact of Introduced Species on Ecosystems
08:45 Cultural Practices in Foraging and Hunting
10:47 Traditional Aquaculture and Food Evolution
11:17 The Practicality of Poke and Food Waste
13:41 Seasonal Gathering and Environmental Awareness
16:59 Historical Shifts in Food Sovereignty
19:24 Food Memory and Practical Sovereignty
21:41 The Fragility of Hawaii's Food Systems
24:53 The Importance of Cultural Practices in Conservation
26:48 Reviving Traditional Knowledge and Practices
28:56 Supporting Local Food Systems
30:11 The Tension of Food Dependency in Modern Hawaii
Takeaways
Hawaii's food culture is deeply intertwined with its land and history.
Taro and poi are central to Hawaiian identity and genealogy.
Polynesian settlers created sophisticated agricultural systems.
Introduced species have drastically altered Hawaii's ecosystems.
Foraging practices reflect a deep respect for nature and conservation.
Aquaculture has ancient roots in Hawaiian culture.
Poke originated from practical uses of fish, minimizing waste.
Seasonal changes dictate gathering practices and food availability.
Food sovereignty has been compromised by historical shifts in land control.
Cultural practices are essential for conservation and sustainability.
Keywords
Hawaii, food culture, indigenous practices, sustainability, taro, poi, aquaculture, food sovereignty, cultural revival, environmental awareness
Music
Pauoa Like Ka Lehua, Raymond Kane
Ulupalakua, Ku'ulei's Own
Hole Waimea (mele hula), Kaulaheaonamiku Kiona
Fair Hawaii, Tony Ku with Tomomi Sugiura
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Late-Season Small Game, Squirrel Dogs, and Cooking What You Hunt
2026/02/10
Summary
In this episode of the Wild Fishing Game podcast, host Justin Townsend and guest Chris Ingram discuss the often-overlooked world of small game hunting. They explore the importance of small game as a hunting practice, the role of dogs in enhancing the hunting experience, and the cultural shifts in hunting that have led to a focus on trophy hunting. The conversation emphasizes the accessibility of small game hunting, the community it fosters, and the connection between hunters and their dogs. Chris shares his personal journey in hunting and how he has embraced small game hunting as a passion. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the multifaceted world of hunting, particularly focusing on the joy of hunting with dogs, the connection between foraging and hunting, and the culinary delights of small game. They discuss the importance of inclusivity in hunting, the unique bond between humans and dogs, and share personal anecdotes about their experiences in the field. The conversation also delves into various cooking techniques and recipes for small game, emphasizing the value of utilizing all parts of the animal. As they wrap up, the hosts encourage listeners to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the simple pleasures of hunting and cooking together.
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Links:
Instagram
United Kennel Club
American Field
Taiwanese Three-Cup Muskrat
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Small Game Hunting
15:02 The Importance of Small Game Hunting
29:57 The Role of Dogs in Small Game Hunting
35:28 The Joy of Hunting with Dogs
39:11 Foraging and Hunting: A Unique Connection
45:32 Culinary Adventures with Small Game
56:18 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors
Takeaways:
Small game hunting is often overlooked but offers great opportunities.
Late season hunting can be a rewarding experience for many.
Dogs enhance the hunting experience and can be trained for various game.
Small game hunting is accessible and can be done in urban areas.
The connection between hunters and their dogs is vital for success.
Hunting small game can provide a sense of community among hunters.
The evolution of hunting culture has shifted focus towards trophy hunting.
Small game hunting can be a great way to introduce new hunters to the sport.
Conservation and ethical hunting practices are important in the hunting community.
Storytelling and personal experiences enrich the hunting narrative. Small game hunting is an accessible entry point for many.
Dogs enhance the hunting experience and create family bonds.
Foraging and hunting can be interconnected activities.
Culinary creativity is essential in utilizing small game meat.
Squirrel and rabbit are often underappreciated culinary delights.
Accidental meals can lead to the best culinary experiences.
Inclusivity in hunting fosters a welcoming community.
Training dogs for various tasks can deepen the human-animal bond.
Late season hunting offers unique opportunities for adventure.
The relationship between humans and dogs has evolved over thousands of years.
Keywords:
Small game hunting, hunting dogs, outdoor photography, conservation, hunting culture, American Field Magazine, hunting stories, wildlife, late season hunting, hunting community, hunting, dogs, small game, foraging, culinary, outdoor adventures, wildlife, cooking, conservation, family
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The Harvest Report - February 2026
2026/02/03
Summary
The Wild Harvest Report for February 2026 provides a comprehensive overview of seasonal opportunities for hunting, fishing, and foraging across North America. The report explores regions from the Southeast to the Pacific Northwest, detailing unique conditions and wildlife. Additionally, it highlights culinary practices that utilize seasonal ingredients, encouraging listeners to make the most of their harvests and preserved foods.
Takeaways
This podcast is a monthly food first snapshot of the wild season.
February is a month where weather and access conditions can change fast.
Local knowledge and good judgment matter just as much as regulations.
Fishing opportunities vary greatly by region, especially in saltwater and freshwater.
Wild hog hunting is a prime opportunity in many southern states.
Foraging begins with early spring greens in warmer areas.
Ice fishing is a major focus in the Midwest and Northeast.
Culinary practices in February lean towards slow-cooked meals.
Preserved foods from previous seasons should be utilized now.
The best part of the season is often what you notice along the way.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Wild Harvest Report
01:05 Regional Breakdown: Southeast Opportunities
03:51 Exploring the South: Fishing and Hunting
06:12 Southwest Conditions: Wildlife and Foraging
08:05 Rocky Mountain Insights: Winter Challenges
09:56 Pacific Northwest: Rainy Season for Fishing
11:48 Midwest and Prairie States: Ice Fishing Focus
13:46 Northeast and Special Regions: Unique Conditions
15:09 Culinary Focus: Cooking with Seasonal Ingredients
Keywords
wild harvest, foraging, fishing, hunting, seasonal food, North America, February, wildlife, cooking, outdoor activities
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The Wild Pantry, Part I - Freezing as Preservation
2026/01/27
Summary
In this episode, Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans explore the significance of freezing as a method of food preservation. They discuss the historical context of freezing, the science behind how freezing affects food, and practical tips for safe freezing practices. The conversation also covers the different types of freezers, the impact of air exposure on food quality, and best practices for freezing various types of food. The episode concludes with insights on managing freezer inventory effectively.
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Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Freezing in Food Preservation
05:30 Understanding the Science of Freezing
08:01 Freezer Safety and Best Practices
10:22 Types of Freezers and Their Impact
13:36 The Effects of Air Exposure and Freezer Burn
15:24 Effective Food Wrapping Techniques
19:05 Freezing Different Types of Food
23:46 Managing Your Freezer Inventory
30:11 Conclusion and Next Steps in Preservation
Takeaways
Freezing is a common yet often overlooked method of food preservation.
Historically, freezing was about stability rather than extreme cold.
The introduction of home freezers changed food handling dynamics significantly.
Freezing affects food texture due to ice crystal formation.
Freezer safety is more about handling than arbitrary timelines.
Air exposure leads to freezer burn, which is a form of dehydration.
Vacuum sealing is one of the best methods to prevent freezer burn.
Different foods require different freezing techniques for optimal preservation.
Labeling and organizing your freezer can prevent waste and improve efficiency.
Freezing should be treated as a skill to maximize its benefits.
Keywords
freezing, food preservation, freezer safety, wild food, freezing techniques, food storage, freezer burn, preservation methods, wild pantry, food science
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From Landscape to Foodscape: The Next Chapter of Harvesting Nature
2026/01/20
Summary
In this episode of Harvesting Nature, hosts Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans discuss the evolution of their podcast, which has expanded beyond hunting and fishing stories to encompass broader themes such as food systems, preservation, and the integration of wild food into everyday life. They introduce three new monthly series aimed at deepening the audience's understanding of wild food culture and practices. The conversation also touches on personal updates, including plans for new books, camps, and the growth of their ecommerce store, all while maintaining a focus on community engagement and feedback.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Harvesting Nature's Evolution
09:03 Personal Updates and Future Plans
14:15 Introducing New Podcast Series
20:01 Exploring the Wild Preservation Pantry
23:59 The Wild Harvest Report and Community Engagement
Takeaways
Harvesting Nature is evolving to include broader food system discussions.
The new series will focus on regional foodscapes and preservation techniques.
Community engagement is key to the podcast's growth and direction.
Keywords
Wild food, food systems, preservation, hunting, fishing, Harvesting Nature, cooking, butchery, food culture, podcast
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The Okayest Cook Returns: Real Food, Real Learning, Real Wild Game
2026/01/13
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Chris Whonsetler, the Okayest Cook, shares his journey into the world of cooking and hunting. He discusses the evolution of his culinary skills, the challenges of sausage making, and the importance of butchery in understanding the food we eat. The discussion highlights the connection between cooking and hunting, the role of photography in food presentation, and the philosophy behind the Okayest Cook brand, which embraces imperfection and encourages others to learn and experiment in the kitchen. Chris emphasizes the value of community and sharing experiences in the culinary world, making it clear that it's okay to be the Okayest cook and that everyone is on their own journey of learning and growth.
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Links
Okayest Cook Website
Instagram
Chris Whonsetler
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wild Cooking and Podcasting
02:57 The Journey into Hunting and Cooking
05:49 The Evolution of Cooking Skills
09:02 First Experiences with Wild Food
12:00 Misconceptions and Learning from Mistakes
15:00 The Art of Sausage Making
17:51 Challenges in Sausage Production
19:52 Exploring Butchery Techniques
21:14 The Art of Butchering: Learning Through Practice
22:21 Understanding Cuts: Regional Variations and Terminology
23:55 Visual Aids in Butchering: Enhancing Learning
24:35 Field Care: The Reality of Butchering Wild Game
27:20 The Importance of Proper Butchering Techniques
29:29 First-Time Experiences: Overcoming Intimidation in Butchering
31:20 Prioritizing Cuts: Efficient Butchering Strategies
33:20 Building a Connection: The Relationship Between Butchery and Hunting
35:01 The Decline of Processors: A Call to Learn Butchery Skills
37:35 Favorite Cuts: Surprising Discoveries in Butchering
41:16 The Art of Cooking and Butchering
42:06 The Okayest Cook Philosophy
44:30 Exploring Ingredients and Cooking Techniques
46:40 Culinary Growth and Learning
49:46 The Intersection of Photography and Cooking
52:41 Authenticity in Culinary Exploration
56:10 Embracing Mistakes in Cooking
Takeaways
Cooking and hunting can be learned later in life.
The journey of cooking is filled with trial and error.
Sausage making is a challenging yet rewarding skill.
Butchery connects you more deeply with the food you eat.
Understanding different cuts of meat enhances cooking.
The Okayest Cook brand embraces imperfection in cooking.
Cooking is about enjoying the process, not just the outcome.
Photography enhances the way we appreciate food.
Community and sharing experiences are vital in cooking.
It's okay to be the Okayest cook; everyone starts somewhere.
Keywords
Cooking, hunting, butchery, wild game, sausage making, food photography, okayest cook, culinary skills, recipes, food community
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The Future of Wild Food: What 2026 Gets Right and Wrong
2026/01/06
Summary
In this episode, Justin and Adam examine how wild food culture is evolving as it moves into the mainstream. They discuss the influence of technology and AI on hunting, foraging, and social media, the growing respect for indigenous foodways, and the renewed focus on ethical meat care. The conversation also addresses misinformation within the community and the need for self-regulation. Looking ahead to 2026, they explore a coming divide between education-driven content and spectacle-based media, and why preserving traditional knowledge matters more than ever.
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Chapters:
00:00 The Evolution of Wild Food Culture
07:09 The Impact of Technology on Foraging and Butchery
13:57 Misinformation and the Community's Role
20:02 The Future of Wild Food and Social Media Dynamics
24:51 The Impact of AI on Social Media and Entertainment
26:53 Indigenous Voices in the Wild Food Movement
29:58 Challenges and Opportunities in Indigenous Food Sovereignty
32:46 Technology's Role in Wild Food Practices
35:58 The Intersection of Technology and Hunting
41:28 Ethics of Technology in Hunting and Foraging
Takeaways:
Wild food has become mainstream and is now widely shared on social media.
There is a growing appreciation for meat care and fish quality among consumers.
Indigenous foodways are gaining recognition and leadership in the wild food conversation.
Technology is reshaping traditional food practices, including hunting and foraging.
Misinformation about butchery and meat care is prevalent on social media.
Short videos can lead to misconceptions about the complexity of butchery.
Community regulation of information is crucial in combating misinformation. AI is changing the way we consume content on social media.
Indigenous voices are gaining recognition in the wild food movement.
Technology is both a tool and a challenge in wild food practices.
Drones and thermal optics are becoming common in hunting.
Ethics in hunting are being challenged by new technologies.
AI-driven apps can mislead foragers if relied upon solely.
The wild food culture is built on trust and experience.
There is a growing divide between tech-savvy and traditional practitioners.
The future of wild food will require balancing technology with traditional knowledge.
Keywords:
Wild food, foraging, butchery, technology, social media, indigenous foodways, meat care, misinformation, community policing, future trends, AI, social media, indigenous food, wild food, technology, hunting, foraging, food sovereignty, conservation, ethics
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Podcast reviews
Read Wild Fish and Game Podcast podcast reviews
4.8 out of 5
60 reviews
★★★★★
bird hunter and bird dogs 2025/04/03
Willingness to Stand Up
I listened to your most recent episode. I always appreciate Project Upland’s willingness to speak the truth despite the repercussions. It is a wildly ...
★★★★★
Loggy Bayou 2025/01/23
Great show
Just listened to the Kevin Gillespie episode and it was great. It made me hungry! Great job guys
★★★★★
Semibald 2024/05/18
Eating Organ Meats
I just listened to the the talk with Jonathan Reisman MD about eating organ meats. Very interesting topic! I’ve enjoyed several other episodes of this...
★★★★★
jabiaba 2024/01/31
Informative & Makes me Hungry
Each episode is packed full of information, good conversations and really makes me hungry!
★★★★★
The Big Game Hunter 2022/06/30
Enjoyed the meat saving ballisticsshow!
The show is great and I especially liked that episode in particular
★★★★★
finding execs giving 2022/06/24
Thanks for everything
I am a newish hunter and I love finding out new ways of eating and getting wild game I love this podcast it is very informative and haven’t found or s...
★★★★★
Jesse and Samm 2022/03/29
Great Stories and Examples of Gathering and Preparing Wild Game
Been a lifelong deer and Turkey hunter in Wisconsin, but always did the typical - take it to butcher and get it as ground and summer sausage. Recently...
★★★★★
huntfishsaildad 2022/03/06
Thanks for staying true to your mission
THanks for not being one of those outdoor podcasts that spend more time talking about being a hunting/fishing podcast than actually talking about hunt...
★★★★★
covidgsp 2022/02/10
New ingredients motivation
Your podcast gave me some inspiration to try and new roast recipe. Tested out searing the roast with mayo and used some pickle juice in the mix. Wife...
★★★★★
deer woods gansta 2022/01/06
Fantastic podcast
Just found your podcast. It is fantastic. Can’t get enough of it.