Nordic Tales & American Trails

In this episode, Erik sits down once again with James Edwards to discuss hunting culture, modern legislation, and the future of working dogs across Europe and the UK.We explore new EU animal welfare rules — including microchipping and kennel standards — and how changing laws are shaping rural life and long-standing hunting traditions. From the legacy of the UK Hunting Act to hunting experiences in UK and the United States, the conversation connects policy, culture, and real life in the field.But beyond policy, this episode centers on something deeper — the bond between hunters and their dogs, the ethics that guide responsible hunting, and the responsibility that comes with preserving tradition in a changing world. From entering young dogs and developing them the right way to long-term stewardship of land and wildlife, we reflect on how hunting adapts without losing its foundation.Highlights include:🐕 EU dog regulations & hunting culture🌍 International hunting experiences⚖️ Ethics and modern wildlife management🐾 Entering and developing young working dogs🤝 Advocacy and protecting rural traditionsA focused and honest conversation about dogs, culture, and responsibility in a changing landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with David Scallan, Secretary General of FACE — Europe’s largest hunting federation, representing over 7 million hunters across 37 countries.David explains how EU legislation, conservation policy, and public perception are actively reshaping the future of hunting in Europe, and why hunter engagement has never been more important.We talk about real, current issues affecting European hunters today: lead ammunition, wolf and large carnivore management, dog welfare, bird conservation, invasive species, and the ongoing battle against misinformation and anti-hunting narratives. David also shares how FACE works directly with EU policymakers, conservation partners, and national hunting organizations to protect hunting rights while promoting science-based, sustainable wildlife management.With examples from Ireland, Sweden, and across the EU, this conversation highlights how organized hunting communities play a crucial role in biodiversity, land stewardship, and long-term conservation success.Highlights include: 🏛️ How FACE works inside the EU political system 🌍 Hunting, conservation, and policy across Europe 🦌 Wildlife management, large carnivores, and biodiversity ⚖️ Social acceptance, communication, and misinformation 🤝 Why unity among hunters matters more than everA timely and important episode for anyone who hunts — or cares about the future of hunting — in Europe. Understanding the policy landscape is no longer optional; it’s part of protecting our traditions for generations to come. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Erik and Darren sit down for an open conversation about dogs, training, and the thinking behind building functional hunting dogs over time.We talk about choosing puppies, attitude testing, breeding and generational traits, and the differences between male and female dogs. The discussion also touches on neutering and behavior, retrieving work, and how a handler’s mindset, confidence, and patience play a major role in training outcomes.This episode isn’t about presenting one “right” way. Everything discussed comes from our own experiences, and as we say in the episode, there are many different paths to the same goal. We share what has worked for us and invite others to reflect, compare, and learn from it.Highlights include: 🐕 Puppy selection and attitude testing 🧬 Breeding, genetics, and generational traits ⚖️ Male vs female dogs and behavior differences 🎯 Retrieving work and training challenges 🧠 Human mindset and confidence in dog training 🤝 Sharing knowledge within the hunting communityA grounded, experience-based conversation about dogs, learning through doing, and why open discussion matters in developing good hunting dogs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Erik Rhodin sits down with Josh and Dallin from Snowy Mountain Bear Dogs for a deep dive into hunting culture, Karelian Bear Dogs, and what it really takes to build functional, hard-working hunting dogs in today’s world.This conversation moves from personal hunting journeys to the realities of breeding, training, and selecting dogs for real-world predator work. We explore the unique characteristics of the Karelian Bear Dog, the versatility of Spitz-type breeds, and how breeding philosophies differ between North America and Scandinavia.Josh and Dallin share insights on decoying coyotes, bear hunting in harsh mountain terrain, managing heat and injuries in the field, and the importance of self-preservation instincts in a true working dog. We also discuss wildlife management strategies, including hazing bears to reduce human–wildlife conflict, and how climate and environment shape both predator behavior and hunting opportunity.This episode blends culture, conservation, and practical dog work🐻 The role of Karelian Bear Dogs in bear hunting and wildlife management 🐕 Breeding standards and selecting for grit vs. self-preservation 🌲 Cultural differences between Scandinavian and North American hunting traditions 🧬 The future of Karelian breeding practices 🐺 Decoying coyotes and predator control strategies 🔥 Managing heat, injuries, and survival in rough country ⚖️ Hunting regulations and how they shape dog work 🌎 Climate impact on wildlife populations and hunting seasons Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Erik Rhodin and Darren Petty continue the conversation with Travis Bader, diving deeper into ethics, conservation, and the realities of modern wildlife management.We discuss public land access, predator–prey dynamics, hunting regulations, and the challenges hunters face in maintaining ethical standards in a rapidly changing world. The conversation also covers hunting with dogs, the bond between hunter and dog, and how technology is shaping the future of hunting.Travis shares thoughtful insight into why education, collaboration, and responsibility are key to keeping hunting traditions strong for future generations.Highlights include:⚖️ Ethics and responsibility in modern hunting🌲 Public land access and hunting regulations🐻 Predator management and human–wildlife interaction🐕 Hunting with dogs and training methods📚 Education and collaboration among hunters🔮 The future of hunting and conservationAn honest, experience-driven conversation about where hunting stands today — and where it’s heading. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this epiosde Erik Rhodin and Darren Petty sit down with Travis Bader — Canadian outdoorsman and host of the Silvercore Podcast — for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges hunting cultures across the Atlantic.Travis shares his experiences hunting in Sweden, his time at the Norma Academy, and his perspective on how hunting traditions, regulations, and community differ between North America and Scandinavia.We talk about the role of hunters in wildlife management, the importance of community, and why understanding different hunting cultures matters more than ever.Highlights include: 🦌 Hunting in Sweden vs. North America 🎓 Experiences at the Norma Academy 🌍 Cultural differences in hunting traditions 🤝 Community and collaboration in hunting 🐕 The role of dogs in hunting 🌱 Hunters and conservation responsibilityA grounded and thoughtful conversation about hunting, culture, and the shared values that connect hunters worldwide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Nordic Tales and American Trails, Erik Rohdin and Adam Vu sit down with their hunting partner Dominic Brown of Bayou Outlaws for a grounded conversation about real-world hunting, dog work, and life in the field.We talk about everything from moose hunting in harsh winter conditions to fast-paced wild boar chases, and what it takes to run dogs effectively when weather, terrain, and pressure all work against you. Dominic shares his experiences hunting alongside Adam through Bayou Outlaws, and how teamwork, trust in dogs, and reading animal behavior are key to consistent success.The conversation also dives into managing multiple dogs in the field, how weather impacts dog performance, ethical considerations around trail cameras, and what separates preparation from luck. We wrap things up by touching on future hunting plans and how community, storytelling, and shared experience continue to shape the hunting culture on both sides of the Atlantic.Whether you hunt moose, boar, or just appreciate honest dog work and time outdoors, this episode is about process, partnership, and learning every time you step into the woods.Highlights include: 🐕 Hunting with dogs under real pressure ❄️ Moose hunting in tough winter conditions 🐗 Wild boar chases and fast decision-making 🤝 Partnership and teamwork through Bayou Outlaws 🎯 Dog performance, ethics, and field experienceA relaxed, experience-driven conversation about hunting, dogs, and the people who make the journey worth it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part Two, we continue our conversation with Filip Örnerkrans, diving deeper into the broader cultural, ethical, and economic realities surrounding hunting.We talk about trophy hunting from a Scandinavian perspective, how hunting helps fund conservation, and why public perception of hunters can differ so much between countries.We also discuss the importance of education, transparency, and why hunters need to stand confident in their traditions at a time when hunting is often misunderstood.Filip reflects on hunting as a lifelong learning process and why valuing wildlife is key to protecting it for future generations.Highlights include:🌍 Bow hunting’s cultural role in Sweden🦌 Trophy hunting — respect, memory, and meaning💰 Hunting’s role in funding conservation📚 Education and public understanding of wildlife management⚖️ Ethics across borders and hunting cultures🔥 Why hunters shouldn’t be ashamed of their passionA thoughtful, experience-driven conversation about responsibility, conservation, and the future of hunting — told from a Swedish perspective with global relevance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part One, we sit down with Filip Örnerkrans, together with Wayne, for an in-depth conversation about bow hunting, tradition, and the ethics that shape how we hunt.We talk about the transition from traditional to modern archery, shot placement and animal behavior, and why bow hunting demands a different level of patience, awareness, and respect. We also explore the importance of mentorship in hunting, the role of dogs across different cultures, and why the experience often matters far more than the harvest itself.Filip shares insight into his hunting film series Jaktrömmar, which focuses on emotion, adventure, and connection to the hunt — not just the moment of the kill.Highlights include:🏹 Traditional vs modern bow hunting🎯 Shot placement, patience, and animal behavior🧠 Ethics and personal responsibility in hunting🐕 Dogs in hunting — cultural differences and traditions🎥 Jaktrömmar and storytelling beyond the kill🤝 The importance of mentorship and passing knowledge onA thoughtful, experience-driven conversation about bow hunting, respect for game, and why the journey is often the real reward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this New Year’s special episode of Nordic Tales and American Trails, Erik and Adam sit down with Jimmy Vegas to talk about getting into hunting later in life — and getting completely hooked.Jimmy shares how a casual interest turned into a full-blown passion, from his very first hog hunt to traveling, hunting with dogs, and experiencing the camaraderie that keeps pulling people deeper into the hunting world. We talk about learning the ropes as a newcomer, safety and regulations, and that moment when hunting stops being about curiosity and becomes part of who you are.This episode is about discovery, growth, and seeing hunting through fresh eyes — the excitement of the first hunt, the connection to nature, and the community that comes with it.Whether you’ve hunted your whole life or are just starting to feel the pull, this conversation captures why so many of us wish we’d started sooner.Highlights include: 🐗 First hog hunt experiences 🐕 Hunting with dogs for the first time 🌲 Finding connection with nature 🎯 Learning safety, rules, and responsibility 🤝 Community, mentorship, and shared passion 🧭 Looking ahead to future hunts and goalsA relaxed, story-driven New Year episode about how hunting finds you — no matter when you start. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robin Tangen is back — fresh home from West Virginia and with a brand-new chapter added: importing a dog from the U.S. to Norway.In this Christmas episode of Nordic Tales and American Trails, we sit down to talk hunting, dogs, and the shared traditions that connect Sweden, Norway, and the United States. Robin shares stories from his recent trip to the U.S., what it’s like hunting and traveling over there, and the realities of bringing an American dog into a Scandinavian hunting life.We get into hound hunting and breed differences, tracking styles across dog types, modern tools like GPS and training aids, and even the use of robotic bears in dog training. Along the way, we talk about game meat on the Christmas table, dog training philosophies, and how hunting builds friendships that last far beyond a single season.A relaxed, holiday conversation about dogs, culture, travel, and the people we share the woods with.Highlights include: 🎄 Christmas hunting traditions across countries 🐕 Robin’s West Virginia trip & importing a dog from the U.S. to Norway 🦮 Hound breeds and tracking differences 🧭 Training dogs by understanding instinct 🤖 Modern tools and training methods 🥩 Game meat and food traditions 🌍 Cross-border hunting culture and friendshipsPerfect listening for a slow holiday morning — whether you’re feeding dogs, cutting meat, or just enjoying the quiet.#NordicTalesAmericanTrails #ChristmasEpisode #HuntingDogs #Hounds #WorkingDogs #ScandinavianHunting #AmericanHunting #DogImport #DogTraining #HuntingCulture #GameMeat #Jakt #Dogmen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Erik and Adam sit down with Austin Marcum of Wild Country Kennels for an honest conversation about coon hunting, hound work, and what it truly takes to build reliable hunting dogs.They talk about how hounds are started, tested under pressure, and selected forward in serious programs — and why not every dog makes the cut. The discussion also compares American coon hunting culture with hunting dogs in Scandinavia and Europe, showing that while the game and systems differ, the core values of dog work remain the same.Whether you run hounds, Laikas, or simply appreciate real working dogs, this episode focuses on the mindset, patience, and evaluation behind consistent dog work.Highlights include:🐾 Coon hunting and hound culture in the U.S. 🐕 Training, testing, and selecting hunting dogs 🌍 American vs. Scandinavian dog culture 🔥 Dog work over harvest 🧭 What separates good dogs from great onesA grounded conversation about dogs, tradition, and why the process matters more than the outcome.#NordicTalesAmericanTrails #CoonHunting #Hounds #WorkingDogs #HoundCulture #Dogmen #HuntingPodcast #ChaseOverKill Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Erik and Adam sit down with Swedish hunter, tracker, and lifelong Laika man Mikael Kronstrand for a deep dive into dog work,training philosophy, and what truly separates a good dog from a great one. They explore the mindset behind building reliable wounded-game trackers,the differences between East and West Siberian Laikas, and why Scandinavian dog culture operates so differently from what we see in North America.From bark tempo and species reactions to real-world tracking challenges, this conversation goes far beyond the surface.They also break down the Scandinavian moose hunting trials — how they’re judged, what traits actually matter in the field, and how trials translate into real hunting situations.Whether you run Laikas, elk dogs, or hounds, this episode delivers insight only decades of hands-on experience can provide.  Highlights include:🐺 Laikas vs. Elkhounds — traits, differences, and what each brings to the hunt🩸 What makes a consistent wounded-game tracker🐗 How dogs change behavior from moose to wild boar🎧 Scandinavian vs. American dog culture — two worlds, two mindsets🏆 How moose trials actually work — judging, expectations, and real-field relevance🧭 Why some dogs make it and others don’t🔥 Training philosophy from a lifetime of experience A grounded, experience-driven conversation for anyone who loves working dogs, Scandinavian hunting culture, or the craft of building a dog that can truly perform when it matters.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 66, Darren and Erik sit down to talk about what hunting really means — far beyond the success of the shot.They dive into why the harvest itself is only a small piece of the puzzle, and how the journey, the lessons, and the time spent in the wild shape us far more than the outcome ever could. From sustainability and ethics to the stories and community that bind hunters together, this episode digs into the heart of what keeps us coming back season after season.Highlights include:🌲 Why the hunt is about the journey — not just the result 🎯 Success vs. experience: what truly matters 🤝 Community, camaraderie, and the stories that connect us 🌿 Sustainable and ethical hunting practices 🧭 Lessons nature teaches us along the way 🔥 How hunting shapes us long after we leave the fieldA reflective, grounded conversation about the mindset behind responsible hunting — and why the freezer being full is only one part of the story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this part 2 we continues the discussion with James Edwards, expanding into global hunting traditions, land management, and the future of working dogs.We dive into the cultural importance of moose hunting, the challenges of modern wildlife laws, and how different regions shape the dogs they breed. They also touch on coyote hunting, the rise of new hunters, and the ethics that guide today’s hunting communities.Highlights include:🌲 Hunting traditions and land management🫎 Cultural significance of moose hunting🐺 Coyote hunting and field stories⚖️ Ethics and the evolution of hunting🐕 The role of dogs in modern hunting culture🐑 Farming insights from rural BritainA focused, honest conversation about dogs, tradition, and how hunting adapts to a changing world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part One, Erik sits down with James Edwards of JJlivestockUK to dig into the heritage of British working dogs and how the UK’s hunting culture has changed over time.We explore the history of the Smithfield cattle dog, the role of dogs both on farms and in the field, and how the Hunting Act of 2005 reshaped long-standing traditions. The conversation also touches on the controversy surrounding UK hunting laws, the loss of natural predators, and the growing divide between rural life and urban opinion.Highlights include:🐕 Smithfield cattle dog history and purpose📜 How the Hunting Act changed UK hunting🦡 Badger management — conservation vs control🌾 Dogs in farming and daily rural work🐾 Evolution of working-dog breeds🔥 Why dog work matters more than the killA grounded introduction to British dog culture and wildlife management — setting the foundation for Part Two’s broader global perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2, Erik Rhodin continues the conversation with Derek Hall, diving deeper into the challenges and opportunities facing today’s hunting community.From state regulations to public perception, they explore how hunters can take an active role in education, outreach, and responsible dog work — ensuring that the traditions we value continue to thrive for generations to come.Derek also shares insights into the mission behind the Arizona Working Dog Alliance, a group dedicated to promoting ethical hunting practices and protecting the future of hunting with dogs in the United States.Highlights include: 📜 The impact of hunting regulations and policy changes 🐾 Promoting responsible and ethical dog hunting 🎯 Education and outreach for future hunters 🌵 Arizona Working Dog Alliance — goals and mission 🤝 Collaboration across the global hunting community 🔊 Preserving traditions through knowledge and respectAn insightful conclusion to a two-part discussion that bridges perspectives, connects communities, and celebrates the hunters and dogs who carry these traditions forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 1 of this conversation, Erik Rhodin sits down with Derek Hall to explore the world of hunting with dogs — from the deserts of Arizona to the forests of Scandinavia.They dive into what defines a good hunting dog, how different breeds excel in different regions, and the cultural contrasts that shape how hunters around the world view their craft.This first part sets the stage for a powerful discussion about unity, education, and respect for the traditions that connect hunters across continents.Highlights include: 🐕 The wide range of hunting dogs and their strengths 🌎 Cultural contrasts between American and Scandinavian hunting 🎯 Training philosophies and breed adaptations ⚖️ How local environments shape hunting styles 🤝 Respect and shared understanding among hunters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Nordic Tales and American Trails, Erik and Adam open up about the emotional highs and lows that come with life as hunters and dog owners. From the joy of the chase to the heartbreak of losing a trusted companion, this conversation dives deep into the bond between humans, dogs, and the wild.They reflect on the recent moose hunting season, the transition to copper bullets, and the lessons learned while training young dogs in the field. It’s an honest look at what makes hunting more than just a pursuit — it’s a way of life built on patience, respect, and connection.Highlights include:🐾 The heartbreak and joy of dog ownership🎯 Transitioning to copper bullets🦌 Reflections on the moose hunting season🧠 Learning from success and failure🤝 The deep bond between hunter and dog🌲 Hunting as a lifelong teacherA grounded, emotional, and honest conversation about the real life behind the hunt — where every trail, every loss, and every victory carries a lesson worth sharing.#HuntingLife #NordicTalesAndAmericanTrails #LaikaHunting #HuntingDogs #MooseHunting #CopperBullets #HuntingCommunity #DogTraining #ScandinavianHunting #LifeWithDogs #TheHuntingBond Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Nordic Tales and American Trails, Erik sits down with Thomas Cole from Colemine Kennels in Michigan.Thomas shares his journey into hound hunting — from starting later in life to building a kennel of driven bear dogs and traveling across the U.S. in pursuit of adventure.The conversation dives into what drives houndsmen, the ethics of baiting, breeding for purpose, and the powerful bond between hunter and dog.From Michigan’s thick forests to the swamps of North Carolina and the rugged terrain of the West, Thomas brings stories of challenge, learning, and passion for the chase.Highlights include:🐾 Building Colemine Kennels and the drive behind it🏔️ Hunting bears from Michigan to the mountains out West🦴 The role of baiting and terrain in modern bear hunting🤝 Community and unity among houndsmen🔊 Dog training, instinct, and reading the bark🍖 The overlooked quality of black bear meat⚖️ Ethics, respect, and managing hunting conflicts📱 How technology is shaping today’s hunting world🌲 Hunting as a connection to nature — not just a harvestA heartfelt look into the life of a houndsman and the traditions that keep hunting culture alive across generations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.