The Ugly Dog Podcast

Katie Willis finally joins the show where she shares her insights on hunting, dog training, and planning trips, emphasizing safety, flexibility, and the importance of pattern recognition in dogs. She discusses her experiences living on the road, managing wild game, and navigating the challenges of hunting season in different terrains. In this episode, Katie and Mike explore the nuances of hunting, dog training, authenticity, and life lessons, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and managing expectations in the field and in life. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, Kate Hall shares her journey from art student to celebrated wildlife artist and bird hunter. We explore her creative process, her experiences with bird dogs, and tips for aspiring hunters and artists alike. You can find more of Kate’s work, or commission a piece yourself at her website: https://katehallart.webnode.page/ This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, Blaine Peetso shares his journey into bird hunting, the challenges of training pointing dogs, and dives into what it's like hunting close to home in Canada. We explore the nuances of different bird species, hunting seasons, and the importance of patience and adaptability in hunting and dog training. Blaine shares honestly about the value of capturing memories through writing and photography. This is a wide ranging conversation that covers so many bases about what we all love in hunting wild birds. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Tom Reed joins the show this week to share his journey into bird hunting, the importance of public lands, and the deep connection between hunting, conservation, and personal fulfillment. He dives into his history as a seasoned outdoor writer and hunter, emphasizing the value of preserving our natural resources. We also discuss the art of writing about bird hunting, the importance of authenticity, and practical tips for aspiring writers. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, Jordan shares his journey from a young hunter in Iowa to a top-tier dog trainer and field trial competitor. We explore dog training principles, the importance of understanding dog behavior, and how to develop a strong, cooperative relationship with your hunting dogs. In addition to his history, Jordan also dives into how to develop a dog's mental framework for better performance in hunting and field trials. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, Grayson Guyer shares insights on dog training, breed variation, and building strong relationships with hunting dogs. Discover practical tips for selecting, training, and understanding your dog to enhance your hunting experience. He also shares his insights on the importance of structure and patience in dog training and the role of conservation in hunting culture. The discussion also explores practical training tips, gear recommendations, and the value of wild bird experiences. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Brooks and Skyler from Cackle Clothing Company share their journey from bird hunting enthusiasts to apparel entrepreneurs. They discuss starting a business, designing fun hunting gear, leveraging social media, and preparing for the hunting season. Check out their stuff at Cackle Clothing Company . This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Reid Bryant shares his journey from childhood in Massachusetts to becoming a passionate outdoor enthusiast and bird hunter. We explore the influence of childhood experiences, the evolution of outdoor interests, and the emotional journey of caring for aging bird dogs. In this episode, Reid dives into becoming a writer and outdoor enthusiast. We explore the art of storytelling, the challenges of outdoor writing, and the importance of authentic voice in the hunting and fishing community. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, veterinarian Melody Ward shares expert insights on managing heat stroke in dogs, emergency veterinary care, and best practices for keeping your bird dogs safe during hot weather and hunting season. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Nate Kennedy shares his journey from a deer hunter to a passionate bird dog owner and conservation advocate. He gives insights on habitat diversity, the impact of bird dogs, and the vibrant community supporting upland hunting. In this episode, Nate dives into his lifelong passion for writing and hunting, exploring how these passions intertwine and influence his life. We delve into the importance of patience with bird dogs and the significance of reflection through writing among many other topics. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Ford Van Fossan shares his journey from the eastern shore to owner of Wingworks, a classic upland hunting vest brand. We explore the history of the brand, the importance of durable gear, and the future of upland hunting apparel. In this episode, Ford shares insights on the importance of durable, American-made hunting gear, conservation efforts in the West, and the future of WingWorks vests. We took a deep dive into the intersection of business, conservation, and outdoor lifestyle. There is lots to take in from this journey and more to come from WingWorks in the coming year. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

In this episode, Chris Midgette shares his journey from waterfowl hunting to upland, exploring the unique traits of Boykin spaniels and his decision to add a wirehaired vizsla into the mix. Chris shares his journey from novice dog trainer to a passionate upland writer, discussing hunting trips, dog training, and the evolving landscape of outdoor content creation. We also cover the importance of patience, storytelling, and the impact of community in the hunting world. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Des Stormont is BACK on the Ugly Dog Podcast! She and Mike look back on their NAVHDA Invitational training season and test date, discuss how training and hunting priorities change over time, and look ahead to what's on the calendar for training, judging, and testing in 2026. If you missed Des' first appearance, check it out here: Episode 2 This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Andrew Vavra sits down with Mike this week to share how an "I need a job" internship led him to a career in marketing and communications with Pheasants Forever. And, along the way Andrew transitioned from a waterfowler to an upland hunter, raised a lab in the city, then brought home a French Brittany, and now a German Wirehair. Andrew shares candidly about loving the dog you have and appreciating every moment afield, even if it doesn't go according to plan. There is lots to learn in this episode. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

As is tradition, every 25 episodes Mike solicits questions from listeners, social media followers, etc. In this episode he sits down to answer questions about transitioning from hunting to training, why he doesn't believe tests and trials should set up specific categories for dog breeds, and a handful of insightful and deep questions from lessons learn along the way. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

JP Knutson joins the show this week to share his journey into bird dogs and upland hunting, what he learned jumping into guiding early in his bird hunting career, and how he's adapting to shooting after a train accident left one of his arms fused. JP has had quite the journey and the uplands keep him coming back for more. Enjoy! Get in on the new Ugly Dog Hunting Co merch pre-order: Hoodie Pre-Order This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Mitch Skatter joins the show this week to recap his 2025 pheasant season, chat about Pheasant Fest 2026, and take a deep dive on his Garmin dog GPS questions. Check out Mitch's YouTube Channel, Upland Path for more of his tips and tricks for bird hunting: https://www.youtube.com/@UplandPath This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

If you're looking to learn more about grouse and woodcock hunting from a bunch of seasoned vets who also relish giving each other a hard time, this episode is for you. Mike sat down with he crew of friends and fellow die-hard ruffed grouse and woodcock hunters to take on listener questions. Questions range from cover type, how they structure feeding schedule, how to be a better shot, and tips for taking your first trips to the northwoods. There is a ton to be learned from this episode. Enjoy! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Bode Springer joins the show this week to grill Mike for an upcoming college homework assignment. He is a student at UMD and studying environmental sustainability. Bode recently got his first bird dog, a springer, an apt choice given his last name and shares about his bird hunting journey thus far in addition to his thought-provoking questions. This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Nate Akey from onX Hunt joins the show this week to discuss his path into bird hunting and dog training, his NAVHDA Invitational run, hunting season so far, and so much more. Nate is an avid photographer who has leveraged his skill set with his degree to build a career in the hunting industry. We dive into all sorts of topics and this is the perfect episode to listen to on the long drive to camp! This episode is brought to you by Ugly Dog Hunting Co. Shop now at UglyDogHunting.com Music used under Creative Commons -Two Step Daisy Duke by Mr. Smith is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.