Shows
Hometown Hero OutdoorsHealing Waters: How Captain Bob Cook connects veterans with the therapeutic power of the seaSend us a textCaptain Bob Cook, star of National Geographic's Wicked Tuna, takes us on an extraordinary journey from his childhood fishing trips to becoming one of the Northeast's premier bluefin tuna experts. With heartfelt authenticity, Bob shares how his passion was sparked at age 11 when he boldly approached a lobster boat captain and asked to come aboard – a moment that would shape his entire future.The conversation reveals Bob's fascinating path to television stardom, including how he was initially rejected for being "too professional" before eventually joining the cast in Season 9. Bob pulls ba...
2025-04-161h 02
Hometown Hero OutdoorsHonoring the Fallen: Inside the National Law Enforcement Memorial FundSend us a textThe sacred walls of the National Law Enforcement Memorial bear 24,067 names—each representing an officer who made the ultimate sacrifice. Behind this powerful tribute stands an organization dedicated to ensuring these heroes are never forgotten.We're joined by Bill Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, who brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience and a profound personal connection to the memorial. "We lost 16 of my peers from the Prince George's County Police Department," Bill shares, "all of whom have their names inscribed on the very sacred memorial which al...
2025-04-0254 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsRestoring Hope: The Emotional Impact of Outdoor TherapySend us a textExperience the transformative power of nature with our latest podcast episode that dives deep into Hometown Hero Outdoors and its mission to heal veterans through outdoor adventures. Join us as we sit down with John Sewell, the passionate ranch manager at Harris Ranch in South Texas. Discover how this incredible organization honors the sacrifices of military personnel by providing unforgettable outdoor recreational experiences that promote healing, camaraderie, and renewal.John’s story is both inspiring and enlightening, showcasing the intricate balance of managing a deer ranch while fostering a thriving habitat fo...
2025-03-1953 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsNature’s Healers - The Transformative Power of Horses: Sally Mixon with AbijahSend us a textWitness the incredible healing power of equine therapy as Sally Mixon from Abijah on the Backside shares her expertise in helping military personnel and first responders overcome PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Sally, a dedicated counselor and horse enthusiast, illustrates how retired racehorses can reflect human emotions, offering a unique means for individuals to confront their inner battles. Experience the transformation of trauma recovery through collaborative wellness programs that fuse the benefits of nature and experiential healing. Our partnership with Sally’s nonprofit, Abijah, enriches our Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASS...
2025-03-0547 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFire Fighter Fenton - Finding Laughter in the Flames with Brent FentonSend us a textFirefighter Fenton, aka Brent Fenton, takes us on an extraordinary journey through his two-decade career as a captain and paramedic in Arizona's fire service. His experiences highlight the intense challenges of recruitment and the evolving landscape of public safety, all while maintaining a light-hearted look at life through his comedic social media presence. Brent's career is marked by his rise through the ranks, from a reserve firefighter to captain, with his father's medical emergency solidifying his decision to pursue paramedic training. His insights into the importance of experience before promotion, the ri...
2025-02-191h 09
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFrom Policing to Podcasting: Brent Reaves on Passion for NatureSend us a textBrent Reaves, a passionate outdoorsman from Arkansas, takes center stage on the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast, bringing with him a wealth of experience in both law enforcement and outdoor guiding. Brent's journey from a childhood on a farm in Southeast Arkansas to becoming a key member of the Meat Eater team is nothing short of inspiring. He shares his deep-seated love for coon hunting, turkey hunting, archery, and fishing, revealing how these pursuits have been shaped by his upbringing. Listeners will walk away with a newfound appreciation for the healing power of nature...
2025-02-051h 00
Hometown Hero OutdoorsWicked Tuna Captain David Marciano - Giving BackSend us a textJoin us as we welcome the legendary captain, David Marciano from "Wicked Tuna," who shares his insights on the world of fishing and conservation. With a career spanning over four decades and a 13-season run on a top-rated reality show, David brings a wealth of knowledge and heartfelt reflections on his unexpected journey. He discusses the deep connections formed within the fishing community, the resilience needed to brave the harsh sea conditions, and the cherished memories of a shared fishing trip with our New England regional director. Through candid conversations, David emphasizes the...
2025-01-2234 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsValor Under Fire: Clint Romesha's Journey of Courage and Commitment - Part 1Send us a textClint Romesha, a Medal of Honor recipient, joins us on the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast to share his remarkable experiences from the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan. Clint opens up about the intense and harrowing battle at Combat Outpost Keating, a defining moment of valor that earned him the nation's highest military honor. Beyond the tales of courage, Clint offers insights into his life after service, balancing family, veteran outreach, and the profound impact youth sports have on character development.We also explore a family legacy of military service that...
2025-01-081h 17
Hometown Hero OutdoorsSenator Judy Seeberger’s Inspiring Journey of Service and AdvocacySend us a textSenator Judy Seeberger's journey from evaluating complex legal matters as a lawyer to shaping policy in the Senate is nothing short of inspiring We welcomed her on the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast to share how her diverse career path—from lawyer to public school teacher, paramedic, and eventually a Minnesota senator—has shaped her unwavering dedication to public service. Her commitment to veterans and first responders remains a focal point, especially through her collaboration with Hometown Hero Outdoors. Even when legislative hurdles arise, Senator Seeberger stands resolute in her mission to garner bipartisan suppo...
2024-12-2555 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFinancial Freedom for First Responders: Nick Daugherty is the Financial CopSend us a textImagine being buried under $80,000 in debt from reckless spending. Meet Nick Daugherty, the Financial Cop, who transformed his financial life and now inspires thousands of first responders to find their own financial freedom. Nick shares his journey from financial despair to stability, with insights gained from financial guru Dave Ramsey. By emphasizing the critical link between financial health and mental well-being, Nick's story highlights how financial literacy can lead to improved professional performance and personal peace of mind, especially in high-pressure roles like law enforcement.Transitioning careers can be daunting, particularly...
2024-12-1151 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsLimitless Courage: Matias Ferreira's Journey of ResilienceSend us a textCan life be limitless without limbs? Matias Ferreira, a former United States Marine and a trailblazing double amputee patrolman, joins us to share his awe-inspiring journey from Uruguay to the land of opportunity. Matias recounts his harrowing experience of surviving a devastating IED explosion in Afghanistan and his phenomenal recovery at Walter Reed. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, illustrating how he's transformed personal tragedy into triumph through his work in law enforcement and his dedication to adaptive sports and community service.We explore Matias's...
2024-11-271h 22
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFrom Firefighter to Advocate: Scott Gieselhardt's Journey Through PTSD, Addiction, and HopeSend us a textDiscover the compelling journey of Scott Gieselhardt, a retired firefighter who turned his struggle with PTSD and addiction into a powerful mission to aid mental health awareness among first responders. Scott's 24-year tenure with the Frazee Fire Department in Minnesota exposed him to the emotional complexities and unique pressures faced by first responders, especially in tight-knit communities where emergencies often hit close to home. He joins us on the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast to share his transformative story, offering hope and invaluable insights into recognizing and confronting mental health challenges.Scott's...
2024-11-1359 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsSeason 3 Kickoff EpisodeSend us a textJoin us as we kick off Season 3 of the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast with an exciting blend of personal stories, impactful interviews, and a heartfelt mission to connect our military service members, veterans, and first responders with the great outdoors. Listen in as co-hosts Chris Tetrault and Phil Ewert talk about the upcoming guests for Season 3.This season promises an array of captivating guests who are making significant impacts in their communities, such as Scott Gieselhardt, a retired firefighter who has overcome personal struggles to inspire others. We'll introduce Firefighter Fenton...
2024-10-3015 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsUnveiling Season 3: Heroes, Healing, and the OutdoorsSend us a textBIG NEWS! 🎙️ The Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast returns for Season 3 on October 30th!We're a non-profit dedicated to enhancing mental health through outdoor adventures for military personnel, veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS. Join us as we explore the healing power of nature through hunting, fishing, camping, and more.🚨 Why listen?Over 5,000 heroes have embarked on life-changing outdoor adventures.Real stories from those who’ve overcome immense struggles.Inspiring guests this season include:🏆 Clint Romesha, Medal of Honor recipient🎣 Wicked Tuna captains🎸 Harrison Yount, pedal steel guitarist for Cody Johnson Band🔥...
2024-10-2300 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsLiz Collin - 2023 Banquet EmceeSend us a textWe are excited to announce our Emcee for our 2023 Banquet as Liz Collins. Liz Collin has been a truth-teller for 20 years as a multi-Emmy-Award-winning reporter and anchor. Aside from her writing projects and public speaking engagements, she currently works for Alpha News. Liz is a Minnesota native who lives in the Twin Cities suburbs with her husband (former Minneapolis Police lieutenant and union leader), adventurous son, and loyal lab.You can purchase her book at the link below:They're Lying: The Media, The Left, and The Death of George...
2024-10-2342 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsUnyielding Spirit: Jason Stone's Journey from Navy Chief to Cancer FighterSend us a textWhat does a retired Navy Chief, a dedicated educator, a passionate writer, and a resilient cancer fighter have in common? They're all the facets of our extraordinary guest, Jason Stone. Jason's journey is nothing short of inspiring - a whirlwind of two decades in the Navy, a transition into teaching, and a recent battle against stage four prostate cancer. His story serves as a testament to human resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding spirit to learn and grow.We kick off this episode with Jason's military tale that threads from his decision...
2023-11-151h 01
Hometown Hero OutdoorsCanine Heroes: How Service Dogs Transform Veterans Lives with Sam DalySend us a textHow often do we get an opportunity to peek into the life of a military veteran who, after serving in places like Afghanistan, comes home to serve his community in an equally exceptional way? Meet Sam Daly, the founder and former executive director of Believet Canine Service Partners. He's been in the trenches and knee-deep in the Afghan dirt training dogs for bomb detection, and now, he's channeling his expertise into training service dogs to help his comrades—our disabled veterans. His story is one of passion, commitment, and an unyielding spirit to se...
2023-11-011h 01
Hometown Hero OutdoorsBehind the Scenes of the American Legion: Insights from Commander Paul WadeSend us a textThis episode is one you don't want to miss - Paul Wade, a seasoned veteran and 10th generation Texan, joins us on the Hometown Hero Outdoors podcast. Paul, with over 22 years of military service and two Purple Hearts to his name, brings a wealth of wisdom and experience. As he shares how his deep family ties to the military have shaped his life, you'll feel a newfound appreciation for the dedication of our servicemen and women.We also spotlight the American Legion, the nation's largest veterans organization. Paul, as the commander...
2023-10-1853 minHometown Hero OutdoorsUnearthing Wisdom through Outdoor Therapy: A Second Conversation with Pete RipmasterSend us a textWe're thrilled to bring you a fascinating discussion part 2 with our friend and adventurer extraordinaire, Pete Ripmaster. Discover how Pete ran his way to self-love and mental healing using outdoor therapy. Unearth the wisdom of his transformational journey, how he found solace in nature, and the cruciality of the present moment in his spiritual awakening. Venture alongside Pete as he narrates his unique adventure of running 100 miles in every state, a testament to his indomitable spirit. Listen in as he regales us with tales from his journey across 25 states, reveals his ant...
2023-10-1153 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFishing for a Cause - Behind the Scenes of MN Made: Stories of Dedication and CamaraderieSend us a textFounding HHO Members Tony Thesing , Andy Giraffe, and Chris Tetrault catch up with Jake Kuchenmeister, the inspiring figures behind Minnesota Made, a thrilling ice fishing league. Jake, an entrepreneur at heart and a fervent supporter of youth sports, unwraps his captivating journey with Minnesota Made. This episode is brimming with stories of hard work, unwavering dedication, and the immense love for both youth sports and the fishing community.We reveal the behind-the-scenes chaos and fun of organizing the Minnesota Made Fishing Tournament. Jake, Tony, and Andy share their experiences and challenges they f...
2023-10-041h 02
Hometown Hero OutdoorsJohn Lisle - Reflections on Leadership, Resilience, and the Healing Power of the OutdoorsSend us a textThis episode takes you deep into John's captivating journey that highlights his love for the outdoors, the thrill of motorcycle riding, his experiences in the military and his efforts to glorify the veteran community. Our conversation ventures into the wilderness, discussing John's love for hunting and how this passion was reignited after his return from Iraq. We explore the emotional bond between a father and son that's strengthened in the quiet solitude of the outdoors, and how these experiences mold us into better humans.The episode concludes on a no...
2023-09-271h 02
Hometown Hero OutdoorsCrafting the Perfect Cast: A Dive into Custom Fishing Rods with Gold Standard OutdoorsSend us a textMeet Joe and Ben Swanson, the rod-crafting prodigies behind Gold Standard Outdoors. This dynamic duo has been crafting bespoke rods since their teenage years, and their shared passion for the great outdoors is truly infectious. Joe is the primary rod builder located in Wisconsin while Air Force Officer Ben, who is on the cusp of his promotion to Captain, handles the administrative side of things, including website development and taxes.Join us as we delve into the technical side of rod making. The Swanson brothers enlighten us on the intricacies of...
2023-09-2034 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsExploring the Thrill of Turkey Hunting: Strategies, Tactics, and Stories - Wisconsin Turkey HuntSend us a textReady to experience the thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of shared experiences, and the satisfaction of a successful harvest? Join us as host Chris Tetrault sit around the campfire with Shawn Knobloch, Garrett Miller, and Matthew Barrett, reliving the adventures from their annual turkey hunting trip in Wisconsin. We dive deep into the nitty-gritty of planning such a trip, from securing the right tags to picking the perfect hunting grounds. Our guests share vivid anecdotes of the hunt, lessons they've learned, and the joy they find in introducing newbies to their passion,
2023-09-1359 min
Prostate Cancer: The Road to RecoveryEpisode 3: Now We Get PersonalThis episode started from some thoughts I had during today's (9/7/23) treatment when the song "Yesterday" by the Beatles was played while I was on the treatment table.
This really is an emotional journey as much as it is a physical journey.
Also find us on Spotify:
▶ https://open.spotify.com/show/04Uki93meDK2JTDuZU8ovb
Voice Actor for introduction: Phil Ewert of www.philewertproductions.com
Check out some of his other with with Hometown Heroes:
▶ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi35QHU6law
Background intro music on intro created by Paul Wayne Music of Glass Iron Syndrome. Check out...
2023-09-0816 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsRunning the Distance: Pete Ripmaster - Championing Mental Health through RunningSend us a textGet ready for the extraordinary journey of Pete Ripmaster, a regular man turned ultra-marathon champ through the transformative power of running and outdoor therapy. Pete completed the grueling 1000-mile Iditarod Trail Invitational 1000, winning it in 2018. His tale doesn't stop at the finish line. Pete's running adventure has led him to inspirational public speaking and a mission to accomplish an audacious new feat - to be the first person to run 100-mile races in every state!Rippmaster's conversation is a testament to human resilience and the healing power of nature. Brace yourself...
2023-09-0648 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsOfficer Arik Matson - The Thrill of the Hunt: An Alaskan AdventureSend us a textImagine the rush of overcoming barriers and successfully harvesting your dream hunt bird in Alaska! That's just one of the many experiences we share with you in our chat with host Chris Tetrault and guests Arik and Megan Matson, and Dale Mord from Rogue Productions.Hear us relive the awe-inspiring landscape, peculiar weather, and our unforgettable adventure on St. Paul Island. We encountered challenges in duck hunting, made necessary adaptations for Eric, and celebrated when he successfully shot a King Eider. We also touch upon the selection process for th...
2023-08-301h 12
Hometown Hero OutdoorsNational Banquet Recap with Liz Collin, Melissa Bachman, and Aaron SlaterSend us a textIn this episode we're catching up with previous guests Liz Collin, Melissa Bachman, and Aaron Slater, sharing their experiences from our recent Winter Banquet in Minnesota. Liz is busy crafting a documentary, Melissa, from Winchester Deadly Passion, is embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood, while Aaron, the owner of ReLEntless Defender, shares his enlightening travels and newfound perspective on non-profits. Hear about the inspirational testimonials shared at the event, the unveiling of the Arik Mattson documentary trailer, and the recognition of Brent Fowler as Person of the Year. We also...
2023-08-2329 min
Hometown Hero OutdoorsFrom Law Enforcement to Entrepreneurship: A Conversation with Mike the CopSend us a textJoin us for a great conversation with Mike the Cop, a law enforcement veteran who smoothly transitioned into entrepreneurship and nonprofit work. Mike takes us through a journey of his intriguing career path, from his years in police work to his thrilling foray into business ventures and philanthropy. Mike also reveals his journey into content creation, the deeply therapeutic benefits of blogging, and how his faith and family provide a solid foundation for his mental health. Mike co-founded Humanizing the Badge, a nonprofit that works tirelessly to create understanding and compassion b...
2023-08-1657 min