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★★★★★

4.9

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37 reviews

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Welcome to the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, your place for truck side chats and deep insights into the retriever game await. Hosted by Chris Rud, a fellow retriever enthusiast and student of the game, this podcast is your go-to resource whether you're just dipping your toes into the retriever world or you're a seasoned handler looking to sharpen your skills. Join us each week as we delve into the intricacies of retriever training, offering a blend of tips, tricks, and wisdom from both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals. From tales of triumph to strategies for overcoming challenges, we explore it all, with a shared passion for forging unbreakable bonds with our loyal companions. So grab your coffee, hop into the truck, and let's embark on this retriever adventure together. This is the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, and I'm Chris Rud. Let's dive in.

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Check latest episodes from Hunt Test Hobo Podcast podcast

EP 49: The First Wirehair to Pass the Grand – Landon’s Incredible Journey

2025/10/07

In this episode of The Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Landon—a trainer who’s breaking boundaries in the retriever world. Landon’s dog, Harker, isn’t your typical Labrador—he’s a German Wirehaired Pointer and the first of his breed to ever run and pass the HRC Grand. They talk about what it takes to train a versatile hunting dog for retriever tests, how to build teamwork with an independent breed, and the lessons learned from upland and waterfowl hunting across the country. From Carolina quail plantations to running blinds at the Grand, this conversation is full of grit, humor, and inspiration for anyone chasing the next level with their dog.

EP 48: Two Chris’ on Pressure, Programs, and Progress

2025/09/30

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud sits down with Chris Jobman of The Flatlander Kennels Podcast for a deep dive into retriever training. The two discuss the value of crossover training between hunt tests and field trials, why following a structured program matters, and how to avoid confusing your dog with mixed methods. They break down practical drills like ABCDs, wagon wheels, and white coat setups, while also exploring the mental side of dog work—teaching dogs to handle pressure, suction, and stress. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur handler looking to sharpen your program, this conversation is packed with insights to help you build more confident, reliable, and successful retrievers.

EP 47: Training Beyond Finished: What It Takes to Level Up

2025/09/23

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris is joined by Zac Patrick to recap an amateur pre-Grand training day in Ohio. With dogs and handlers facing setups tougher than a finished test, the group experienced firsthand the challenges of precision, reading dogs, handling suction, and demanding casts. Chris and Zac break down what they saw—from handlers letting dogs drift too far, to key lessons about attacking blinds, to the importance of raising standards when preparing for the Grand. Whether you’re an amateur handler or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical insights, funny stories, and honest reflections from the training grounds.

Ep 46: From Hunt Tests to Cash Payouts – The Rise of HRT

2025/09/16

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Justin Smith and Justin Jackson to introduce an exciting new game in the retriever world: Hunting Retriever Trials (HRT). Born out of a desire to give handlers and owners a new challenge beyond traditional hunt tests, HRT offers structured classes, fair competition, and even cash payouts. The conversation dives into the “why” behind this new format, how it’s structured, what the payouts look like, and why it could be a game-changer for amateurs, pros, and breeders alike. If you’ve ever wondered what’s next after your dog smokes the hunt test circuit—or you’ve dreamed of a retriever game with real returns—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

EP 45: Big Stakes, Big Lessons: Prepping for Hunt Tests

2025/09/09

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with seasoned handler Mike Schwan to talk all things Grand. From early mistakes to eventually stacking up seven Grand passes, Mike shares the lessons, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped him succeed at the biggest stage in hunt testing. Chris and Mike dig into pre-Grand training, handling blinds under pressure, dog preparation, and the value of traveling with pros and training groups. Whether you’re gearing up for your first Grand or just curious about what it takes to prepare for the biggest tests in the retriever game, this episode is packed with practical advice and great stories.

EP 44: Why Ribbons Can Ruin Dogs... Kinda

2025/09/02

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Dan Ihrke and Tyler Brenner at Gun Dog Success to talk about the start of hunting season and the lessons learned from recent hunt tests. From “rip and send” mistakes to the importance of line manners, they break down the small details that make a big difference at the line. The conversation dives into steadiness, when to let your dog choose a mark, and how foundations prevent long-term problems. Packed with real stories, laughs, and practical advice, this one’s a must-listen for anyone serious about improving their handling and building better retrievers.

EP 43: A Miracle in the Marsh: A Conversation with HRC President Glen Scarborough

2025/08/26

In this powerful episode, Chris sits down with Glen Scarborough, President of the Hunting Retriever Club, to talk about his incredible journey in the retriever world. Glen shares how a near-fatal hunting accident changed his life, his path into HRC, and how the sport gave him purpose and community. From the growth of youth and women’s programs to keeping the HRC family-friendly and affordable, Glen offers insight into where the organization is headed. This conversation is part inspiration, part education, and a reminder of why we love the retriever game.

EP 42: The Art of Retriever Breeding with Marty Roberts

2025/08/19

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with Marty Roberts of Sporting Life Kennels to dive deep into what makes a truly great breeding program. From his first Labrador “Jim Bob” to building a respected kennel operation, Marty shares how he selects for drive, style, trainability, and that all-important off switch. They explore the nuances of genetics, and why Marty’s unique “care program” ensures every dog gets both a hunting life and a family home. If you’re curious about breeding with purpose—not just producing puppies—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

EP 41: HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT!!! RetrieverFoundations.com is LIVE

2025/08/12

Chris Rud welcomes back pro trainer Dan Ihrke to announce the launch of RetrieverFoundations.com—featuring the brand-new Puppy Foundations course. They dive deep into why a rock-solid start between 2–6 months can set your retriever up for lifelong success in hunt tests, the field, and at home. From off-lead obedience to marking, water work, and developing a pup that loves to learn, this is the blueprint Dan has refined over decades. Plus, special launch pricing and free video previews so you can start shaping your pup’s future today.

EP 40: Pat Burns: A Lifetime at the Line

2025/08/05

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with one of the most influential figures in the retriever world—Pat Burns. From his early days training and learning under Rex Carr, to running elite field trial dogs and coaching amateurs across the country, Pat shares the stories, philosophies, and lessons that have shaped his legendary career. Hear about his time working with iconic dogs like Cherokee Rose, his detour into sled dogs and performance nutrition in Alaska, and why he believes the best trainers are mellow, thoughtful, and always learning. Whether you’re running the Grand, Master Nationals, or just getting started, this episode is packed with gold for every student of the game.

EP 39: Building a Great Dog: Ray Voigt’s Take on Talent, Timing, and Training

2025/07/29

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, host Chris Rud sits down with Purina's Ray Voigt—a seasoned pro in the retriever world and former right-hand man to Mike Lardy—for a wide-ranging Q&A that covers everything from training philosophies to field trial memories. They talk through the “Double T” controversy, what separates a good dog from a great one, and how to build confidence on long marks. Ray also shares insights into transitioning dogs to cold blinds, his favorite grounds (shoutout to Wilmington, IL), and even where to get the best Chinese takeout before a trial. Whether you're an amateur handler or aspiring pro, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and practical advice.

Bonus Episode (38) Blood, Sweat & Puppies: Chris Recaps Winter’s Whelping

2025/07/24

In this special bonus episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris Rud opens up about the whirlwind experience of Winter’s third breeding. From stressful late-night vet visits and unexpected complications to the relief of a healthy litter, this is a raw and honest look at what really goes into producing competitive retrievers. Chris also drops an exciting announcement about a Pre-Grand Amateur Training Days happening this September in Ohio. Whether you’re considering breeding or looking to sharpen your dog's Grand game, this episode offers insight, humor, and a whole lot of real talk.

EP 37: Ron Anderson: 30 Years in the Retriever Game

2025/07/22

In this episode of the Hunt Test Hobo Podcast, Chris sits down with amateur retriever legend Ron Anderson. With 30 years in the game, Ron shares his journey from a farm in Louisiana to training multi-crowned champions like Smoke and Rip. They talk about what it takes to succeed in SRS, hunt tests, and field trials while balancing a day job and family. Ron reflects on building dogs from the ground up, the difference between male and female temperaments, and how hybrid setups keep his training sharp. This is an episode packed with stories, strategy, and straight-up inspiration for anyone chasing excellence in the retriever world.

EP 36: Building Great Dogs One Decision at a Time with Bill Hillman

2025/07/15

In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary trainer Bill Hillman, we dive deeper into the philosophy and technical wisdom behind creating confident, decision-making retrievers. Bill discusses his approach to handling on marks—especially water cheats—and the importance of letting dogs commit to a mistake before correcting it. We explore topics like building experience through repetition, why orange bumpers can teach better than white, and how great dogs are made by helping them make great choices. I also reflect on what I learned from our time together and how Hillman’s mindset as a student of the game continues to influence my own training journey. Whether you're an amateur with big goals or a seasoned pro looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with clarity, humility, and actionable insight.

EP 35: Bill Hillman: From $6 Shelter Dog to Retriever Icon - Part 1

2025/07/08

In this special two-part series, host Chris Rud sits down with the legendary Bill Hillman, one of the most influential figures in the retriever training world. In Part 1, Bill opens up about his unlikely beginnings—from sneaking a $6 dog out of the humane society to pioneering in-home dog training in the 70s. With trademark wisdom and humor, Bill discusses what shaped his philosophy on dog behavior, the critical importance of clarity in training, and the early influences that led to the development of his most famous drills. Whether you're a die-hard student of the game or just starting out, this conversation is packed with perspective you won't want to miss.

Podcast reviews

Read Hunt Test Hobo Podcast podcast reviews

4.9 out of 5

37 reviews

★★★★★

L&theDs 2025/10/04

Super helpful!

As someone fairly new to the retriever game, but with a background in training dogs, I found Chris and his guests to be very helpful. Lots of good inf...

★★★★★

24601 girl 2025/08/19

Great Podcast with Great Content!!

Chris brings a great perspective as an amateur trainer. His easy way of interacting with his guest puts them at ease to bring out the most in the inte...

★★★☆☆

Huskycornstalk 2025/08/22

Ehhh - depends

I really want to like this podcast, and at times I really do! However, there are lots of instances where I want to hear more from the guest than your ...

★★★★★

Scott Arceneaux 2025/07/22

Great content

I love that you consider yourself a student of the game !!! Your content creates a professional learning community. It is very interesting and inspiri...

★★★★★

Joe Tomaino 2025/07/16

Building great dogs one decision at a time with Bill Hillman

Thanks for bringing Bill on as a guest. His insights and guidance were so helpful. It was also great to get to know the man behind the video camera ...

★★★★★

Buck Latte 2025/07/15

Solid Sow

Informative and entertaining.. keep it up!

★★★★★

BobM58 2024/10/04

Great Podcast

Listened to Hunt Test HOBO the other day for the first time. Loved the Audio quality and the way the host kept your interest through the entire show. ...

★★★★★

AdamW... 2024/09/06

THE best gundog podcast!

I listen to a lot of dog and dog training podcasts. Chris came out of the gate with pro quality audio and video and extremely high level guests with e...

★★★★★

Bill Chittenden 2024/05/31

Great content

Importance of keeping your dog’s state of mind on an even keel can’t be overstated. Tips on how to keep your dog from getting mentally off-track as w...

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