The Mountain Dude Podcast

Welcome to the Mountain Dude Podcast, brought to you by Initial Ascent – where we share stories of grit, determination, and the relentless pursuit of growth. This is a space where backcountry hunting meets the deeper lessons of life – success born from struggle, and the art of carrying heavy loads more comfortably, both physically and metaphorically, through faith and perseverance.

Podcasting since 2025 • 66 episodes

The Mountain Dude Podcast

Latest Episodes

Elk Calling Tactics for Every Phase of the Rut | Dirk Durham

Dirk Durham—better known as “The Bugler” from Phelps Game Calls—joins the Mountain Dude Podcast for a complete breakdown of archery elk calling strategies for every phase of September.From the quiet opening days of archery elk season to...

September 01, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 12 • 1:16:29

Elk Every Year- Secrets to Long-Term Success in the West: Zach Bowhay

Back by popular demand! We are re-airing this episode from Summer 2025 on how to kill elk EVERY YEAR! It's just in time for September!Zach Bowhay is one of the most consistently successful elk hunters in the West. In this...

August 25, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 11 • 57:16

How to Hunt Mature Mule Deer in Pressured Units | Martin Chag

In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we sit down with mule deer hunter Martin Chag to break down what it takes to consistently find and hunt mature bucks in pressured, general units.Martin shares how older mule deer behave diff...

August 18, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 10 • 1:11:43

Building of THEORY1 with Jamieson Crast & Austin Miller

What does it take to build a premium rifle company from the ground up—and document the failures, risks, and hard-earned wins along the way?In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, Dennis and Chris sit down with the guys behind THEO...

August 11, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 9 • 1:11:55

What Should You Actually Eat in the Backcountry? Kyle Camp

Backcountry nutrition can make or break your hunt—and expensive gear won’t compensate for poor preparation.Kyle Kamp of Valley to Peak Nutrition returns to the Mountain Dude Podcast to explain how hunters should fuel before, during, and...

August 04, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 8 • 1:15:27