This week Chad Sylvester is back on, and we get into some of the parts of hunting that most guys would rather avoid.

Not tactics. Not setups. The stuff underneath that.

We talk about taking an honest look at yourself as a hunter—where ego gets in the way, how identity can start driving decisions, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is put yourself in a place you’re not comfortable. New ground, unfamiliar terrain, situations where you don’t have all the answers.

A lot of it comes back to letting go a little bit. Trusting your instincts, staying present, and not trying to control every outcome. Because the longer you do this, the more you realize the hunts that teach you the most are usually the ones that don’t go the way you planned.

And like most good conversations, it lands on something simple—if you’re not willing to sit in discomfort, stick with it, and keep showing up, you’re probably not going to get what you’re after. Not in hunting, and not in much else either.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 486

• Honest self-assessment is where real progress starts—most hunters avoid it.
• Ego gets in the way of learning more than lack of knowledge ever will.
• The best hunters rely on intuition built from reps, not constant second-guessing.
• Growth usually comes from putting yourself in uncomfortable, unfamiliar situations.
• You don’t control the outcome—you control your presence and decisions.
• Grit is built by doing hard things consistently, not occasionally.
• The experience—and what you learn from it—matters more than what you kill.

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15 

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Check out Spartan Forge to map your hunt 

—Save on Lathrop And Sonsnon-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check outFaceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand podcast, I sit down with Bill Thompson to dig into the overlap between hunting and jiu-jitsu. We talk about why having a system matters, how asking the right questions sharpens your approach, and why mindset is everything when the pressure is on—whether you’re on the mats or in the whitetail woods. Bill shares how flow state isn’t just a buzzword but a real advantage in both disciplines, and why chasing small, incremental improvements can lead to big results over time. We get into the way social media warps what “success” looks like, the value of teaching the next generation, and how reflection and journaling can make you a better hunter and a better person. Bill also gives us a peek into his upcoming season and what’s next for Spartan Forge, with an emphasis on doing things the right way—building quality tools and investing in the hunting community.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 457

• Hunting and jiu-jitsu both demand embracing discomfort and challenges.
• Systems and asking the right questions lead to better decision-making.
• Flow state creates clarity and therapy in both the woods and on the mats.
• The process of growth is more valuable than the end result.
• Mindset and grounded confidence shape outcomes in hunting and life.
• Small, consistent improvements build long-term success.
• Passing lessons to the next generation keeps traditions alive.

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15 

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Check out Spartan Forge to map your hunt 

—Save on Lathrop And Sonsnon-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check outFaceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand Podcast, I sat down with my buddy David Riley to talk about more than just killing deer. We got into what really makes this whole thing matter—building friendships through the hunt, learning from the folks you meet along the way, and keeping your passion alive by stepping out of your comfort zone. David’s coming off a hell of a season, with stories from solo trips out west to lessons learned hunting closer to home in Michigan and Illinois. We dig into scouting strategies, adapting to unfamiliar terrain, and how the best education often comes from boots-on-the-ground experience.

We also talk about what happens after the shot—the gratitude, the reflection, and how those memories stick with you long after the freezer’s full. Whether you’re chasing whitetails in your home state or chasing a new tag across the country, this conversation is about growing as a hunter and appreciating the process every step of the way.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 445

• Scouting, especially in unfamiliar terrain, is key to consistent success.
• Travel hunts offer new challenges that test and sharpen your skills.
• Trusting your gut in the moment can often beat overthinking.
• Social media, when used right, can connect like-minded hunters and open doors.
• The joy of hunting comes as much from the process as it does from punching tags.
• Reflecting on wins and misses—especially solo—is where the real growth happens.

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15 

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sonsnon-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check outFaceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

In this episode of Truth From The Stand, I sit down with Lucas Benoit—a lifelong New Hampshire deer tracker with a deep understanding of big woods bucks. We dig into the realities of hunting low-density whitetails in the rugged backcountry of New England, where every step counts and patience is currency. Lucas talks about how terrain, pressure, and age class play into buck behavior, and why spending time in the woods is the only way to really learn it.

We also get into tracking deer in snow, hunting mixed timber and swamp country, and the mental grit it takes to chase deer where seeing even one is a win. Lucas shares the story of chasing a ghost of a buck for 4 years and what it taught him about persistence, heartbreak, and how to adapt when the deer have the upper hand. This one’s packed with hard-earned knowledge from a guy who’s made a lifestyle out of chasing mature deer the hard way.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 434

• Big woods hunting, patience and woodsmanship.
• The weight of it all.
• Trapping builds skills in reading sign and terrain.
• Adapting strategies for mountains and swamps.
• Trail cams help but don’t replace woodsmanship.
• Snow tracking teaches discipline and reveals patterns.
• The journey matters more than the final outcome.

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras

— Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15 

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sonsnon-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Check outFaceoff E-Bikes

—Waypoint TV

In this episode of Truth From The Stand, I sit down with Jace to talk about the raw journey of chasing particular mature deer . We dive into setting goals and learning from mistakes, and how true fulfillment comes from the chase itself—not just the kill. Jace and I break down how a mindset built on gratitude and preparation can transform the hunting experience, turning personal success into a way to give back.

We also explore the evolution from opportunistic hunting to targeted strategies, discussing everything from understanding deer behavior across seasons to the pressure and solitude that come with the pursuit of a singular mature buck. If you’re looking for honest insights into the passion that drives us and the lessons learned in the field, this conversation is for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 429

• Opportunistic and targeted strategies
• Learn from every hunt—reflect on mistakes and successes to refine your approach
• Recognize and track deer behavior patterns for targeted, patient pursuit
• Embrace the journey; find fulfillment in the process rather than just the outcome
• Focus on simplicity and minimize distractions to stay true to your passion
• Balance personal growth with the demands of the hunting environment

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Tethrd , Spartan Forge, Lathrop And Sons

—Waypoint TV

This week on the Truth From The Stand podcast, I sit down with Ty Jennings, a hunter who brings a wealth of experience from Central New York’s diverse terrain. Ty grew up steeped in hunting culture, learning the ropes from his family and evolving into a skilled public land hunter. We cover his journey through changing techniques and tools, including how technology like trail cameras fits into the balance between modern hunting and old-school woodsmanship.

Ty breaks down his approach to chasing specific deer, emphasizing the importance of understanding terrain, habitat, and how weather impacts movement. We dive deep into strategies like wind manipulation, choosing access routes, and knowing when to push aggressively versus when to hang back. Ty even shares the story of the F9 Buck—an encounter full of hard lessons and valuable takeaways.

We also explore the differences between ground hunting and hunting elevated in a tree, debating their advantages and how they play into different hunting scenarios. Throughout the conversation, Ty’s passion for bow hunting, curiosity, and adaptability shines, offering insights for hunters of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned woodsman or just getting started, this episode has something for everyone.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 421

• Mobile hunting before it was a thing
• A competitive midset
• Wind manipulation
• Bumping deer for a strategic advantage
• Comfort = lower hunting success
• Self scouting to improve your chances

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Tethrd , Spartan Forge, Lathrop And Sons

—Waypoint TV

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Jacob Sklenar to dive deep into the relentless pursuit of specific mature bucks in high-pressure areas. We get into the thick of rut tactics—timing, reading the subtle sign, and adapting to unpredictable deer behavior when the stakes are high. Jacob shares his strategies for closing in on pressured bucks, from understanding their patterns to the critical role of luck and resilience when things don’t go as planned. We also get into the mental side of it all—how gratitude, perspective, and being present in the grind can make all the difference. This one’s all about the mindset, strategy, and grit required to outsmart those cagey bucks that have seen it all

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 414

• The rut’s unpredictability
• Mature bucks learn to survive in high pressure areas
• Peak rut timing and weather 
• Tracking a specific deer in the rut 
• Missed chances teach valuable lessons for future hunts
• Embracing the rut’s chaos 

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Exodus Outdoor Gear, Tethrd , Spartan Forge

— Visit my local archery shop Bob and AJ’s Archery World

—Waypoint TV

In this episode, Josh and I dive into what it takes to balance family commitments with our love for hunting and the thrill of another season on the horizon. We talk about the grit and adaptability needed when chasing deer with traditional bows and how those tools demand patience and a good eye for movement. We swap stories of hard lessons learned on out-of-state hunts, where expectations often clash with reality, and how staying flexible in the woods is everything.

Josh talks about the wear and tear of long hunts, the mental game that can keep you focused, and how stoicism fits into our lives both on and off the hunt. We also get into the importance of humility and resilience out there, appreciating each moment, and how these same principles apply to raising our kids. Whether you’re a die-hard bowhunter or just looking for insight on staying grounded, there’s something here for you

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 413

• Balancing family with hunting during the rut
• Traditional bow hunting adds a unique challenge and reward to the hunt
• Observing deer behavior and be flexible in hunting spots
• Out-of-state hunts need realistic expectations and multiple backup plans
• Managing energy and taking breaks help prevent burnout during the rut
• Stoicism and mindfulness can keep your head clear and focused in the woods

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Exodus Outdoor Gear, Tethrd , Spartan Forge

— Visit my local archery shop Bob and AJ’s Archery World

—Waypoint TV

On today’s episode, I’m chatting with Josh Profitt about our deer hunting experiences and the impact of life changes on our pursuits. We dive into the grit and determination needed to chase specific deer and the support that keeps us going. 

We discuss the challenges of hunting thick terrain and dealing with road traffic. Josh shares his experience chasing a world-class deer named Bones and the hurdles of hunting in high-traffic areas.

We break down strategies for public versus private land, the role of hunting pressure, and how technology like cell cameras and mapping tools is changing the game. Scouting and adapting to new conditions are key.

This episode is all about the evolving landscape of hunting and the importance of staying flexible. Tune in for insights and stories that will boost your hunting game. 

Tune in and enjoy the show!

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 392

• Determination and sacrifice are crucial for success
• Hunting in thick areas and dealing with road traffic 
• Pursuing popular deer can lead to frustration 
• Challenges and strategies differ between public and private land hunting
• Hunting pressure and the evolving landscape of hunting
• Technology and hunting

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Exodus Outdoor Gear, Genesee Beer, Tethrd

— Visit my local archery shop Bob and AJ’s Archery World

—Waypoint TV

Today on the podcast I’m joined by my buddy Tony Peterson. In today’s episode we dive into how at times, removing your ego …or adding a little ego can make all the difference in your hunting success. Go overboard and you’ve probably missed something…not enough and you may not take that leap your gut is telling you to that would lead you to killing that mature buck. Truth is, it’s a balancing act. Just like when to believe hot sign..and when to walk right past it. Awesome chat with Tony as always – thanks for listening.

Available on all podcast platforms!

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 384

1. Remove the ego for better hunting?
2. The value of fresh sign
3. Impact of long-term data
4. Why October hunts are better than the rut
5. And much more

SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:

—Truth From The Stand Merch

—Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20

—Support our partners: Asio Gear , Exodus Outdoor Gear, Genesee Beer, Tethrd

— Visit my local archery shop Bob and AJ’s Archery World

—Waypoint TV