Zero to Harvest: From MTB Radio to avid hunter, Ben Welnak on his journey from OG podcaster to the hunting life.

Athlete On Fire

Zero To Harvest is a new series with Athlete On Fire. Exploring why and how everyday hunters do what they do! Hope you enjoy!

Ben Welnak is the reason Athlete On Fire exists. His podcast was the first time I knew there was such a thing back 15 years ago. Life happens, and interests change and now we sit down to talk about our newest and biggest passion, hunting.

We explore the journey of hunting and outdoor experiences, focusing on the evolution from childhood influences to adult hunting practices. We talk about fishing, hunting, and the lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, patience, and the willingness to learn from mistakes.

We delve into experiences and lessons learned from hunting, particularly elk hunting. They discuss the importance of calmness, confidence, and the need for practical experience over theoretical knowledge. The conversation highlights the progression of skills in hunting, the significance of being prepared, and the societal and conservation aspects of hunting. They emphasize the value of sharing experiences to educate others and foster a deeper connection with nature.

Chapters

00:00 The Origins of Podcasting and Hunting Journeys

02:46 Childhood Influences and Early Outdoor Experiences

05:30 The Transition to Hunting and Mentorship

08:13 First Experiences with Fishing and Hunting

11:02 Lessons Learned from Early Hunting Adventures

14:14 The Importance of Patience in Hunting

16:49 The Evolution of Hunting Skills and Techniques

19:49 The First Harvest and Learning to Process Game

22:40 Reflections on Mistakes and Growth in Hunting

25:17 Access to Hunting Grounds and Overcoming Barriers

28:31 The Journey of Learning and Sharing Experiences

49:01 Learning Through Experience in Hunting

52:08 The Importance of Confidence and Calmness

54:40 Progression in Hunting Skills

58:51 Lessons from Elk Hunting Adventures

01:13:48 Efficiency in Hunting Gear and Techniques

01:15:58 The Societal Importance of Hunting and Conservation