Pennsylvania Woodsman

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined by Dan Sauble of Mason Dixon Adventures for a wide-ranging conversation about bowhunting, physical preparation, and the mental side of becoming a better hunter. Dan shares how transitioning from a physically demanding career into office work pushed him to focus more intentionally on fitness, mobility, and preparing his body for hunting seasons ahead. From sandbag workouts and archery-specific training to simple habits like walking and prioritizing recovery, the conversation highlights how small, consistent efforts can improve both overall health and performance in the woods. The discussion then shifts into the deeper side of bowhunting — ethics, shot selection, target panic, and the constant challenge of managing the mental game when an animal is in front of you. Mitchell and Dan explore how experience, repetition, and self-awareness shape a bowhunter over time, while also sharing memorable stories from the field that prove the best trophies aren’t always measured in inches. From shooting an armadillo with a bow to mentoring new hunters and filling freezers, this episode reflects on the lessons, mistakes, and friendships that make bowhunting such a meaningful pursuit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell sits down with Pennsylvania hunter Tom Runscavage for a thoughtful conversation about hunting, family life, and the challenge of staying passionate about the outdoors when time becomes limited. With young kids at home and another on the way, Tom shares how his perspective on deer hunting has evolved over the years—from chasing every opportunity in the woods to learning how to prioritize family, responsibilities, and the few hunting opportunities he still gets each season. The discussion dives into the reality many hunters face as life changes: balancing ambition in the woods with the responsibilities that come with growing families and busy careers. The conversation also explores the modern hunting landscape, from the overwhelming amount of gear and media content available today to the importance of keeping things simple. Tom and Mitchell discuss how many hunters get caught chasing complex strategies while overlooking the fundamentals that truly matter—habitat, access, and basic deer sign. From the pressures of limited time to the importance of hunting efficiently and keeping expectations realistic, this episode offers a refreshing reminder that success in the woods often comes down to doing the basics well and remembering why we hunt in the first place. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell sits down with Ron Mentzer of the Tracks and Tackle podcast and Mentzer Outdoors for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, hunting tradition, and the power of belonging. Ron shares how a decades-long family camp logbook eventually evolved into a podcast built around campfire conversations and connecting everyday outdoorsmen across Pennsylvania and beyond. Together, they unpack why hunters crave camaraderie, how intentional mentorship keeps traditions alive, and why creating space at the table matters more than ever in today’s hunting culture. The conversation then shifts into bowhunting mindset, balance, and the tension many passionate hunters feel between ambition and family responsibility. From rut vacation stories and close-call recoveries to honest reflection about when hunting can cross into unhealthy territory, this episode dives into the deeper “why” behind the pursuit. It’s not just about antlers or filled tags — it’s about meaning, memory, legacy, and learning to “hunt your hunt” while keeping life in balance. A thoughtful, reflective discussion that will resonate with anyone who struggles to turn hunting brain off — even in the off-season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Dave Hoy — physical therapist, lifelong Pennsylvania hunter, and founder of Integrated Habitat Solutions — for a thoughtful conversation centered on habitat work, long-term thinking, and balancing passion with real life. Dave shares how cutting trees, reshaping food plots, and implementing timber harvest strategies have transformed both his hunting properties and his mindset. From edge feathering and crop tree release to hard mast plantings and nursery-grown chestnuts, the discussion dives deep into practical habitat manipulation while emphasizing patience, process, and learning through experience Beyond chainsaws and soil health, the conversation takes a deeper turn into career, family, and perspective. Dave reflects on nearly three decades as a physical therapist, the evolving seasons of fatherhood, and why he’s building a passion-driven habitat business without the pressure of making it his sole income. Together, he and Mitchell unpack the realities of the hunting industry, the importance of mentorship and collaboration, and why long-term stewardship — not short-term results — defines true success. This episode is as much about legacy and growth as it is about food plots and timber harvests Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined by Kris Buchman of 3B Outdoors Club for a laid-back, honest conversation about hunting, fatherhood, and keeping the outdoors fun. Kris shares his upbringing in Maryland, how he got started deer hunting, and what eventually pulled him headfirst into waterfowl hunting. The two talk through the differences between private and public land, the challenges that come with pressure and competition, and the lessons learned from both success and hard mistakes in the field. From blown muzzleloader shots to canvasbacks on public water, Kris brings perspective shaped by experience — and humility.The heart of the conversation centers on priorities. As a husband and father of five, Kris explains how his approach to hunting has evolved from chasing trophies to creating memories with his kids. Whether it’s sunrise duck hunts, gas station snack traditions, or simply enjoying time in the blind, the focus has shifted from grinding for results to embracing the process. Together, Mitchell and Kris unpack how community, mentorship, and intentional time outdoors can shape the next generation — and why sometimes the biggest win isn’t what you harvest, but who you’re with when you do it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell sits down with Jae Ellison for a wide-ranging conversation about hunting, education, and the often-overlooked gap between taking hunter education and becoming a lifelong hunter. Jae shares his unconventional path into the outdoors—starting as a non-hunter, building a career in outdoor education, and eventually finding his way into hunting as an adult after moving to Pennsylvania. Together, they explore how failure, challenge, and intentional learning shape both outdoor leadership and the hunting journey, and why hunting offered Jae a meaningful connection to the outdoors that felt different from work for the first time in years.The discussion then turns toward mentorship, community, and hunter retention—why so many people complete hunter education but never buy a license, and what the hunting industry can do to better support new hunters beyond basic safety training. Jae and Mitchell unpack the role of fellowship, shared experiences, and belonging in keeping hunters engaged, while also addressing the limits of modern media, the loss of in-person connection, and the importance of accessible next-step education. From hunter mentorship platforms to Jae’s upcoming Evolving Hunter Podcast, this episode is a thoughtful look at how hunting traditions grow, adapt, and survive when experienced hunters are willing to help others find their place in the woods. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch welcomes friend and returning guest Andrew Muntz back out of “podcast retirement” for a wide-ranging, fireside-style conversation that feels right at home in the slow, snowy days of winter. The two kick things off with dad-life moments, youth wrestling wins, and the realization that our kids are always watching—often becoming the very motivation we didn’t know we were missing. From rekindling personal drive to reassessing priorities, the conversation sets the tone for an honest discussion about growth, balance, and learning to push forward for reasons bigger than ourselves.From there, the episode settles into classic deer-camp storytelling. Andrew shares his season across Ohio and Pennsylvania, including shifting expectations, letting go of pressure, and finding fulfillment in simply enjoying time in the woods. The guys dive into rifle-season drives, first Pennsylvania buck memories, suppressed rifles, missing scope parts, bear encounters in fresh snow, and the camaraderie that makes camp special. More than tactics or inches of antler, this episode is a reminder that hunting is about people, shared experiences, and appreciating the moments that happen between the shots—especially when the season slows down.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As winter settles in and hunting season fades into memory, Mitchell slows things down with a shorter, story-driven episode centered on reflection rather than tactics. After returning from a Kansas waterfowl trip and battling a heavy snowstorm back home, he leans into the quieter rhythm of late January—when the woods are still, the tags are filled or empty, and stories begin to matter more than strategy. This episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman ventures off into a slightly different format: simpler conversations, cabin-table storytelling, and memories worth retelling.Mitchell then takes listeners back nearly 20 years to November 19, 2007—the day he harvested his first Pennsylvania black bear at just 13 years old. Through vivid detail, he recounts deep snow, long bear drives, camp camaraderie, youthful mistakes, and the moment a bear appeared silently behind him at fifteen yards. The story weaves together family, tradition, humility, and luck—culminating in a once-in-a-lifetime day where both a grandson and a grandfather filled their first bear tags. It’s a reminder of why we hunt, why stories endure, and how certain moments in the woods stay with us forever. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this solo episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch takes listeners through his initial reaction to a proposed change to Pennsylvania’s statewide firearm deer season—specifically, a proposal that would move opening day to the Saturday before Thanksgiving. What begins as a discussion about season structure quickly turns inward, as Mitchell openly shares how frustration, impatience, and strong opinions began to spill into other areas of his life. Through an unexpected moment of conviction while reading Proverbs 18, he reflects on the dangers of reacting before listening, speaking before understanding, and allowing passion to override wisdom.With a more measured and humble perspective, Mitchell then revisits the proposal itself, laying out thoughtful concerns around Thanksgiving traditions, deer camp culture, bear season impacts, rut timing, weather arguments, and student opportunity claims. Rather than ranting or assigning blame, he encourages respectful dialogue, personal responsibility, and constructive engagement with the Pennsylvania Game Commission. This episode is both a timely discussion on a hot-button hunting issue and a candid reminder that how we respond—to change, disagreement, and frustration—often matters more than the issue itself. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch sits down with Brandon Miller of Everyday Outdoorsman for a deeply honest conversation about hunting, craftsmanship, fatherhood, and faith. Brandon shares the multi-year journey of building his own traditional longbow by hand—and the challenges that followed when he took it into the woods. From missed shots and wounded deer to the emotional weight of failure, the conversation explores what it truly means to pursue a self-imposed challenge where success isn’t guaranteed and growth often comes through struggle. Along the way, Brandon reflects on traditional archery, learning curves, equipment limitations, and how hunting with a stickbow forced him to become more disciplined, intentional, and aware in every setup.As the episode unfolds, the focus shifts beyond hunting mechanics to something deeper: humility, purpose, and faith. Brandon opens up about dedicating his season—and the unfinished documentary surrounding his bow—to Jesus Christ, wrestling with selfish ambition, content creation pressure, and learning to value the process over the prize. Mitchell and Brandon discuss how valleys often precede growth, why instant gratification can rob joy from the woods, and how slowing down allows both hunters and fathers to stay grounded in what truly matters. This episode is a powerful reminder that the most meaningful journeys in hunting—and in life—are rarely defined by highlight reels, but by perseverance, reflection, and trust in the process.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this New Year episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined once again by Jason Goe from Final Stand for a wide-ranging conversation that blends late-season deer hunting tactics with honest reflection on priorities, pressure, and purpose. The discussion moves through practical topics like late-season scouting, mobile setups comparing climbers and saddles, managing hunting pressure, and how Jason balances hunting across Pennsylvania and Maryland. Along the way, they unpack how gear choices, access, food sources, and pressure shape late-season success—and why adapting your approach matters as seasons, landscapes, and life circumstances change.As the conversation deepens, the focus shifts beyond tactics to mindset. Mitchell and Jason openly wrestle with comparison, social media pressure, goal-setting, and the challenge of staying present in the woods—especially as fathers introducing their kids to hunting. From sharing campfires and deer drives to slowing down hunts so young hunters can enjoy them, the episode highlights the importance of fellowship, mentorship, and keeping hunting fun. It’s an honest reminder that success isn’t always measured in filled tags, but in shared moments, growth, and learning to “run your own race” in the woods and in life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this end-of-year episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined once again by Grant Forney from the Everyday Outdoorsman to reflect on the 2025 hunting season and how their perspectives have evolved. Together, they dig into the shifting balance between archery and rifle hunting, why rifle season has become increasingly meaningful, and how predictability, shared camp time, and cold-weather patterns have reshaped the way they enjoy deer season. The discussion moves beyond antlers and success, touching on pressure, expectations, public land realities, and how chasing “bigger” goals can sometimes cloud the deeper reasons we hunt in the first place.The episode takes a powerful turn as Grant shares the story of introducing his girlfriend to hunting for the first time—watching curiosity grow into confidence, responsibility, and ultimately a successful rifle harvest. From mentoring without pressure to respecting the weight of taking an animal’s life, the conversation highlights what it truly means to pass on hunting traditions thoughtfully. As the year closes, Mitchell and Grant reflect on priorities, family, mentorship, and the importance of adapting seasons and expectations to the stage of life you’re in. It’s an honest, relatable discussion about growth, balance, and why hunting is about far more than tags filled or trophies earned. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Courtney Williamson from We Do This Too Outdoors.  Courtney shares his journey hunting and fishing from a small town in Kentucky to becoming a prominent voice in the outdoor community. He discusses the challenges of cultural identity, the influence of his father, and the importance of embracing one's passions. Courtney highlights his mission to inspire inner-city youth through outdoor experiences and reflects on the joy of hunting, particularly waterfowl and deer. The conversation also touches on the deeper meaning of Christmas and the values he aims to instill in his children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this solo episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Podcast, Mitchell shares the story of a late-season rifle hunt that tested his patience, priorities, and perspective. After a season filled with high expectations, mounting pressure, family responsibilities, mechanical mishaps, and self-inflicted stress, Mitchell heads into the final weekend determined to fill his buck tag. What unfolds is a hard-earned big woods hunt alongside close friends and family—marked by bitter cold, long walks, doubt, and ultimately a brief, narrow shooting window that ends with a buck on the ground. It’s a moment of relief, gratitude, and disbelief that reminds him why he hunts and why the process matters as much as the outcome.Beyond the harvest, this episode dives deeper into what it truly means to seek—both in the woods and in life. Mitchell reflects on the tension between being driven and being present, between pursuing goals with intention versus drifting through them nonchalantly. He opens up about faith, stewardship, family, and the importance of slowing down to realign priorities, recognizing that many of life’s blessings are not earned, but given. This is a raw, honest conversation about growth, gratitude, and learning to pursue what matters most with purpose—long after the tag is filled and the season winds down.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Collin Chamberlin shares his journey from pursuing a career in environmental science to becoming a stand-up comedian and reconnecting with his love for the outdoors. He discusses the sacrifices made along the way, the importance of storytelling in both comedy and outdoor experiences, and how to create relatable content that resonates with a wider audience. Collin emphasizes that success in the outdoors is not solely about harvesting but about the joy and experiences gained along the way. He also highlights the significance of just showing up and being present in the moment, regardless of the challenges faced. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week’s episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Jake Fiola—an everyday Pennsylvania hunter, father, and endlessly reflective outdoorsman. Jake shares the story of an early-season hunt that became far more meaningful than the arrow, the antlers, or even the rare size of the buck he harvested. Hunting with his young son for the first time from an elevated stand, Jake found himself navigating a swirl of emotions: excitement, nerves, nostalgia, and the sobering responsibility of ensuring his child’s safety. What unfolded was a moment that would change how he sees hunting, fatherhood, and the legacy we pass to the next generation.Together, Mitch and Jake dive into themes every parent-hunter wrestles with—slowing down, letting go of control, teaching through experience, and rediscovering why we hunt in the first place. Jake’s story isn’t about a giant buck; it’s about gratitude, perspective, and the miracle of watching a child experience the woods the way we once did. This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that the true trophies in the outdoors are the memories made, the values shared, and the lives shaped while sitting side-by-side in a tree. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is riding solo sharing his hunt over the weekend.  The trip to bear camp resulted in three bears harvested in the big woods of north central Pennsylvania, one of which Mitch was fortunate enough to tag himself!  This recap episode covers the organization of the group, planning ahead and good communication, what sign was found while hunting that led to this successful hunt, and how Mitch's bear almost got away.  Camp tradition is special, and bear camp is just the beginning.  Less than one week away is deer camp and we get to relive the tradition all over again.  Thanks for listening and good luck this season! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Clint Stout, a lifelong Pennsylvania hunter who grew up immersed in the tradition of bear camp. Clint shares a deep well of experience—from understanding food cycles like chestnut oak, grapes, and hickories, to interpreting how bears shift patterns with weather, pressure, and seasonal changes. He and Mitch explore why bear hunting requires a different mindset than deer hunting, and how woodsmanship, patience, and miles of boot leather make all the difference in deciphering this elusive animal. Their conversation dives into terrain reading, the randomness of bear movement, and the surprising intelligence of mature boars that seem to melt into the landscape.The episode also turns toward the culture of Pennsylvania bear hunting—its camaraderie, its generational stories, and how modern hunting dynamics have shifted the feel of camp. Clint and Mitch reflect on how pressures such as expanded seasons, societal pace, and changing traditions have altered the rhythm of bear camp, and why preserving that atmosphere matters. Whether you're a lifelong bear hunter or someone curious about what makes this season so special, this episode captures the rugged spirit, challenges, and heartfelt heritage of Pennsylvania’s bear woods. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Tim Schlappich, a Pennsylvania native and member of the Final Stand crew who found his passion for hunting later in life. Tim shares his journey from being an avid angler and traveler in the military to diving headfirst into the world of whitetails, first in Nebraska’s river bottoms and now across the big woods and marshes of the East Coast. Through trial, patience, and curiosity, he’s learned to balance the challenges of new terrain, the lure of technology, and the importance of keeping the adventure alive.Throughout their conversation, Mitch and Tim reflect on the tension between trophy hunting and personal fulfillment—how the fun, the people, and the places matter more than antlers on the wall. From Sika deer on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to DIY filming and mentoring new hunters, Tim’s story captures the spirit of curiosity and humility that makes hunting special. It’s an episode about growth, grit, and remembering why we step into the woods in the first place.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Nick Otto of the Huntavore Podcast with a special guest appearance from “Tommy Tines.” What starts as a lighthearted chat about friendship and family chaos quickly unfolds into a conversation about priorities, patience, and the pursuit of balance between hunting, home life, and faith. Nick recounts his season in Michigan, complete with the tale of a hard-earned eight-point buck, some comical interruptions, and a few honest reflections about how our love for hunting can both test and teach us.Together, Mitch and Nick dig into the deeper side of deer season—how faith keeps us grounded, how friends keep us humble, and how even in the middle of chaos, a little laughter can go a long way. From managing family calendars to processing venison with the kids, this episode blends humor, heart, and a healthy dose of perspective. Whether you’re a serious trophy hunter or just love filling the freezer, this conversation reminds us what really matters when the woods go quiet. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.