FOCUS HUNTING PODCAST

Kevin Toye shares insights from his recent hunting trip, emphasizing the importance of doing hard things daily, hunting with family, and managing expectations. He discusses his experiences in the field, the mental approach to challenges, and the value of persistence and preparation. Key Topics The importance of doing small hard things daily Hunting with family and the value of time outdoors Managing expectations and focusing on effort over results The mental approach to challenges and persistence Lessons learned from elk hunting trips The role of micro struggles in building resilience Using outdoor experiences to develop mental toughness The impact of technology and podcasts on outdoor preparation Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of recent hunting trip 02:10 Hunting with family and the importance of time outdoors 05:02 Doing hard things daily and building mental toughness 08:09 The concept of micro struggles and their benefits 12:00 Recap of the recent elk hunting trip and lessons learned 15:58 Managing expectations and focusing on effort 20:03 The role of podcasts and learning during travel 24:07 Upcoming hunting plans and strategies 27:52 The importance of fun and relaxation in hunting https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye www.kevintoye.com

In this episode, Kevin shares his recent elk hunting experiences, strategies for finding and approaching elk, and tips for handling encounters and setbacks in the field. He discusses water sources, elk behavior, and how to adapt your hunting tactics to maximize success during the rut. Takeaways - Focus on water sources and transition zones during hot weather - Use wind direction and natural cover to approach elk - Be patient and avoid calling when busted by elk - Observe elk behavior to anticipate movement - Plan your hunt around elk rut patterns and social structure Chapters 00:00 Introduction and recent hunting updates 02:04 Kevin’s recent elk encounters and water sources 06:12 Scouting and approaching elk in hot weather 10:05 Finding transition zones and pinch points 15:03 Dealing with elk that cross private and public land 20:05 Observing elk behavior and herd dynamics 24:46 Handling encounters and avoiding spooking elk 29:58 Planning hunts around elk rut and behavior patterns 35:02 Using calling sequences and calling in elk 39:45 Weather challenges and field tactics Be sure to check out my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye www.kevintoye.com

In this episode, Kevin shares his recent elk hunting experiences, strategies, and lessons learned from the field, emphasizing the importance of adaptable tactics and understanding elk behavior during the rut. Strategies for elk hunting early season and pre-rut Importance of wind and thermals in hunting Using calls effectively in elk hunting Adapting tactics based on elk behavior and terrain Be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

Kevin Toye sits down with professional archer and outspoken bowhunter Tim Gillingham for a raw, unfiltered deep dive into modern archery and bowhunting. They break down Bowhunter Games and 3D archery, how these events expose the truth about your hunting bow setup, and what it really takes to be accurate under pressure. Tim calls out the realities of archery influencers and social media “experts,” sharing how to spot real bowhunting knowledge versus hype when it comes to arrow builds, broadheads, and trending gear. He also delivers the straight truth on Hamskea, limb-driven rests, tuning tactics, and the bowhunting setups he trusts for elk, mule deer, and whitetails. If you’re searching for real-world bowhunting setups, Hamskea tuning insight, Bowhunter Games info, and no-BS archery talk from one of the most respected pros in the game, this episode is a must-listen. https://www.instagram.com/gillingham.tim/ More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

Kevin shares his insights from his opening day elk hunt, focusing on thermals, wind, and hunting strategies in challenging conditions. He discusses how understanding thermals and topography can improve success and shares personal experiences and tips. Topics Thermal dynamics and their impact on elk hunting Wind management and safety in the field Personal experiences and lessons learned during the hunt Strategies for hunting in challenging weather conditions The importance of topography and landscape features in hunting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin’s Elk Hunt and Focus on Thermals 01:52 Kevin’s Morning Hunt and Challenges with Wind 03:47 The Role of Thermals in Elk Behavior and Hunting 07:08 Impact of Weather Conditions and Landscape on Thermals 10:00 Strategies for Using Thermals to Your Advantage 13:03 Understanding Topography and Its Effect on Thermals 15:59 Wind Management and Safety Tips 19:03 Using Clouds and Weather Patterns to Predict Wind 22:05 Positioning and Setup for Effective Calling 24:03 Recap and Final Tips for Elk Hunters

In this episode, Derek and Kevin share expert tips on Elk hunting, focusing on adapting strategies to changing conditions like forest fires and pressure, and emphasizing the importance of gear, terrain, and timing. In this episode, Derek and Kevin share practical insights on elk hunting, gear management, and strategies for success in the field. They discuss tracking, gear optimization, and the mental aspects of hunting under pressure, providing valuable tips for hunters aiming to improve their skills. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hunting Challenges in 2023 00:01 Pressure Management and Elk Response 41:19 Tracking blood trails and landmarks 42:13 Gear reuse and cleaning tips 42:50 Using gloves for butchering and blood protection 44:33 Maintaining gear and pack hygiene 45:52 Optimal use of game bags and packing out 48:38 Clothing and rain gear for backcountry hunts 50:45 Essential gear: headlamps, batteries, and navigation 53:19 Battery management and gear consolidation 54:19 Overpacking and gear efficiency 55:19 Recap of last year's intense hunt 55:59 Preparation and mental toughness 58:26 Adapting to terrain and elk behavior 1:00:23 Approaching elk and calling techniques 1:02:39 Shooting and tracking elk after the shot 1:07:22 Post-shot recovery and animal behavior 1:09:41 Understanding elk sign and rut patterns 1:12:11 Tracking and following elk in tough terrain 1:14:22 Dealing with bumped animals and recovery 1:16:24 Planning and executing long hikes for elk 1:18:44 Strategies for hunting pressured areas 1:19:41 The importance of pressure and elk movement 1:20:18 Preparing for the upcoming season 1:21:25 Closing remarks and encouragement for hunters More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

Elk season is here, and this episode is a deep dive into elk hunting strategy, calling, and mindset with elite coach and veteran elk hunter Matt Hartsky of Backbone Unlimited. Matt has killed 29 bulls and helped his 23-year-old son notch 9 elk already, and he breaks down exactly how he thinks about elk behavior, terrain, and preparation. We cover how to locate elk without relying on bugles, how to hunt high‑pressure public land elk, and why understanding wind, thermals, security cover, bedding areas, feeding areas, and transition zones matters more than the latest gear. Matt explains his “hunt audit” system, how he dissects e‑scouting maps (OnX, Google Earth), and how he builds A–B–C–D plans inside a single elk hunting area. Key topics Elk hunting background and personal journey Importance of wind and thermals in elk hunting Using terrain and transition zones effectively The role of failure and persistence in hunting success Developing mental toughness and backbone Elk hunting courses and training camps Adapting strategies for different regions and pressures The significance of timing and peak rut behavior Be sure to check out all Matt's stuff over at https://backboneunlimited.com/ More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

In this episode, Kevin Toye and Landen share insights on elk and mule deer hunting strategies, shot placement, gear choices, and the evolution of hunting technology. They discuss practical tips for success in the field and reflect on their hunting experiences. Topics Elk hunting strategies and season timing Mule deer bedding and movement patterns Shot placement and broadhead selection Gear choices including binos and rangefinders Thermal management and wind considerations Use of pinch points and transition zones Impact of technology on hunting success Personal experiences and lessons learned • PODCAST Please visit www.kevintoye.com

Unlock the full potential of your hunting bow in this tuning masterclass with renowned bow tech Kellen Morgan of Inside Out Precision. With decades of experience, Kellen explains exactly how to supertune your hunting setup for maximum accuracy, forgiveness, and broadhead performance in real-world conditions. We dive into what really matters in bow tuning, how to get fixed-blade broadheads and field points hitting together, choosing the right arrow spine, weight, and F.O.C., and how cam lean, timing, center shot, and rest alignment affect consistency. Kellen also breaks down the biggest tuning mistakes bowhunters make, how the industry has changed over the last five years, and what actually works for elk, whitetail, and Western spot-and-stalk setups. If you want a deadly accurate compound bow for hunting, this episode gives you the practical tuning process and pro insights to build a setup you can trust when it counts. https://www.instagram.com/inside_out_precision https://www.instagram.com/kevinltoye

In this episode, with Derek, we dive deep into the advanced elk vocal tactics that separate average callers from consistent killers. We break down how to hit the right pitch, tone, and cadence so you stop sounding like a hunter and start sounding like a real elk. Derek explains the subtle calling mistakes that cause bulls to hang up, go silent, or slide away, and how tiny tweaks in your sounds can completely change how elk respond. If you’ve been practicing your calls but still aren’t getting the reactions you want, this pre-season tune-up will help you dial everything in so you’re ready when the woods light up. www.kevintoye.com

In this episode I am joined by Jesse Bruggenthies aka Bergy Bowsmith. Jesse shares insights on bow setup, arrow tuning, and the importance of proper equipment calibration for hunting success. We share, compare and discuss our training routines, gear adjustments, and the mental aspects of archery and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Jesse's Bow Setup 04:32 Discussing Arrow Setup and Tuning 08:44 Arrow Spine and Durability Insights 12:10 The Importance of Knock Tuning 15:45 Building Confidence in Equipment 20:01 Fletching and Broadhead Choices 24:11 Broadhead Preferences and Testing 30:52 Stabilizer Length and Setup 36:28 First and Second Axis Calibration 45:23 Training and Fitness Routines 53:08 Balancing Work, Life, and Training 01:00:21 Mental Approach and Confidence in Archery 01:08:48 Parenting, Struggle, and Life Lessons https://bergybowsmith.com

In this episode, Kevin chats with Steve Rodgers about mule deer hunting strategies, dealing with injuries, and navigating challenging weather conditions like smoke and drought. They share insights on scouting, gear, and adapting to changing deer and elk habits, offering valuable tips for hunters facing tough conditions. Steve on Instagram @muliecrazie Please check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

Kevin Toye and Landen break down how they’re preparing for elk season while balancing real life, heavy workloads, and limited training time. They cover the practical side of elk hunting from fitness and calling to bedding areas, thermals, and gear choices that actually matter in the field.

In this episode, Kevin is joined by Adam Janke, host of the Beyond the Kill podcast. They dive into the intersection of hunting, parenting, and personal growth. They get real about balancing family life and fatherhood with bowhunting, rifle hunting, and backcountry hunting, and how year-round fitness, scouting, and time in the mountains shape them as hunters and as men. They explore how struggle, failure, injuries, and setbacks in training and in the field build mental toughness, discipline, and resilience traits that carry directly into parenting and leading at home. From dialing in shooting and fitness to learning animal behavior and woodsmanship, Kevin and Adam show how the relentless pursuit of becoming a better hunter fuels growth in every area of life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and catching up 02:01 Parenting, family, and life in waves 03:50 Kids' sports and supporting their goals 06:56 Balancing help and struggle in kids' development 10:07 The importance of struggle in life and training 15:12 Discipline, firmness, and context in parenting 19:55 Training routines, injuries, and lessons learned 24:59 Maintaining motivation and avoiding boredom in training 30:02 Balancing training, recovery, and life demands 34:58 Opportunities in US hunting and building points 40:05 Elk hunting strategies and timing in Wyoming 45:07 The thrill of hunting and trophy considerations 49:52 US vs. Canadian hunting management and opportunities 55:08 The value of reps and experience in hunting 01:00:09 Archery practice, skill development, and quality reps 01:03:27 Preparing for high-altitude hunts and physical readiness https://journalofmountainhunting.com Please head over to the YT channel and subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

In this episode, Kevin sits down with World number one archer Mathias Fullerton. Mathias reveals what it really takes to reach and stay at the top of elite archery. From his early days training in Denmark to competing on the world stage, Mathias shares how discipline, resilience, and sports psychology shaped his journey. He explains his mental training and visualization techniques, how he handles pressure as a top‑ranked archer, and the physical preparation and injury prevention that keep him performing at his best. Mathias also talks about setbacks and failure, and how he turns tough moments into fuel for his Olympic dreams. If you’re interested in archery, Olympic sports, athlete mindset, or the mental side of high. performance, this episode offers practical insights you can apply to your own goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Mathias Fullerton's Rise in Archery 01:58 The Journey to World Number One 04:01 Learning New Disciplines and Overcoming Challenges 05:01 Sharing the Number One Spot with Mike 06:03 Dealing with Pressure as the Top Ranked Archer 07:07 Training Regimen and Physical Fitness 08:54 Handling Failure and Setbacks 11:00 Preparation for Major Tournaments and the Olympics 12:58 Mental Strategies: Visualization and Focus 14:50 The Role of Support Teams and Funding 16:53 Balancing Personal Life and Elite Training 18:48 The Importance of Consistency and Routine 21:06 The Future of Archery and Olympic Goals 23:02 Legacy and What It Means to Be a Champion Resources https://www.instagram.com/mathiasfullerton/ https://www.youtube.com/@MathiasFullerton Please subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

In this solo episode, Kevin addresses all the changes with himself, FOCUS HUNTING, HUNT SOURCE, and the crew. He talks about where it all started, the journey and struggles along the way, and where he, along with friends Landen, Derek, Pete & Mike, and the podcast, are headed. Please LIKE | FOLLOW | SUBSCRIBE on all platforms.

In this episode, Kevin sits down with John Barklow, one of the most highly respected and knowledgeable experts in the outdoor industry. With decades of experience in backcountry hunting, mountain survival, gear design, and technical layering systems, John has helped shape how serious outdoorsmen and women prepare for harsh environments. We dive deep into: How to build a reliable outdoor gear system for any weather Backcountry hunting strategies and mindset The fundamentals of mountain safety, survival, and decision-making Common mistakes people make in the backcountry—and how to avoid them John’s upcoming book on outdoor skills, preparation, and fieldcraft Whether you’re into backpacking, hunting, mountaineering, overlanding, or backcountry skiing, this conversation is packed with practical, real‑world knowledge you can apply immediately. If you want to become more prepared, more capable, and more confident outside, John Barklow is one of the best teachers you can learn from.

Kevin and Landen sit down with Jordan Sillars, host of the Blood Trails podcast, to talk about the intersection of hunting, the outdoors, and true-crime storytelling. Blood Trails blends real‑life outdoor mysteries, hunting‑related crimes, and backcountry investigations into gripping narrative episodes—and in this conversation, Jordan pulls back the curtain on how it all comes together. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How Blood Trails is made: from the first idea to the final episode, including story selection, scripting, and production Outdoor & hunting true crime cases: missing hunters, backcountry disappearances, poaching cases, and wilderness investigations Research and investigation techniques: how Jordan digs into public records, news archives, interviews, and case files to build accurate stories Ethical true crime storytelling: balancing respect for victims and families with telling a compelling, honest story Depicting hunters and outdoorsmen fairly: avoiding stereotypes while highlighting real risks and realities in the field Blending adventure and crime: how survival, wilderness skills, and backcountry knowledge shape these narratives Why hunters and outdoorsmen connect with true crime: what makes these stories resonate with people who live for the woods and mountains If you love hunting podcasts, true crime podcasts, or outdoor adventure stories—or you’ve ever wondered how a show like Blood Trails is researched and produced—this episode offers a unique look behind the scenes.

Kevin and Landen sit down with Adam from Weatherby, Inc. for an inside look at how one of the most respected rifle brands in the world designs and builds premium hunting rifles and high‑performance cartridges. Adam walks through the full process from initial concept to the finished rifle in the field sharing how legacy, innovation, and real‑world hunting experience shape every Weatherby product. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Firearm innovation at Weatherby: how new rifle platforms and cartridges are developed and tested Rifle accuracy & reliability: what Weatherby does in design, materials, and quality control to build dependable hunting rifles Caliber and cartridge development: the thinking behind popular Weatherby magnums and modern hunting loads Backcountry hunting rifles: lightweight mountain rifles, stock design, recoil management, and real‑world field performance Manufacturing and craftsmanship: how machining, hand‑fitting, and modern technology come together in a production environment Hunting stories & field testing: how Adam and the team use real hunts to validate new rifles and features Legacy & culture: Weatherby’s history, move to Wyoming, and how they stay connected to hunters and conservation If you’re a big‑game hunter, rifle enthusiast, or looking to buy your next deer, elk, or western hunting rifle, this conversation will help you understand what sets Weatherby apart and what to look for in a truly field‑ready rifle.

Join Kevin and Landen as they sit down with Dr. Mike Chamberlain, “The Wild Turkey Doc” for a deep dive into wild turkey behavior, biology, and hunting strategy. Dr. Chamberlain is one of North America’s leading wild turkey researchers and a passionate turkey hunter, and he breaks down what his latest science means for turkey hunters in the field. In this episode, you’ll learn about: Wild turkey behavior: daily patterns, travel routes, roosting habits, and how gobblers use terrain and habitat Turkey vocalizations: how gobblers and hens communicate, and what that means for your calling tactics Breeding and genetics: what the Wild Turkey DNA Project is revealing about wild turkey populations and subspecies Pressure and hunting tactics: how hunting pressure changes gobbler behavior, and how to adjust your strategy on public and private land Habitat and conservation: how habitat quality, predators, and management practices are impacting turkey numbers across North America Season timing and regulations: how season dates and bag limits affect breeding success and long‑term turkey populations Whether you hunt Easterns, Osceolas, Rio Grandes, Merriam’s, or hybrids, this conversation will help you find more birds, call smarter, and hunt more effectively—all while understanding the conservation work that keeps wild turkeys on the landscape. Resources Mentioned Wild Turkey Lab – https://wildturkeylab.com Wild Turkey DNA Project – https://wildturkeydna.com National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) – https://www.nwtf.org Connect with Dr. Mike Chamberlain (The Wild Turkey Doc): Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wildturkeydoc X (Twitter) – https://twitter.com/wildturkeydoc Website – https://wildturkeylab.com