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.
Episodes
11 episodes
The Legend of The Bugler: Dirk Durham
In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, we're joined by none other than Dirk Durham, aka The Bugler, a backcountry legend and one of the most respected elk callers in the game.From his stormy-night birth in rural Idaho to bowhunti...
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Season 1
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Episode 11
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1:32:24
Elk Every Year: Zach Bowhay’s Secrets to Long-Term Success in the West
Zach Bowhay is one of the most consistently successful elk hunters in the West. In this episode, he joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to break down what it really takes to fill tags year after year—without relying on hype, gimmicks, or lucky draw...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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1:00:40
Burning Beds, Backcountry Demons & Bowhunting Elk with Nate Illingsworth
In this raw and hilarious episode, Nate Illingsworth joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to share his insane journey—from nearly burning down his house mid-romance to losing 80 pounds and tackling backcountry elk hunts head-on. Nate opens up about ...
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Season 1
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Episode 9
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1:04:48
Gear Talk Pt 2: Clothing Systems & the Merino vs Synthetic Debate
In this episode of Gear Talk, we go deep into clothing systems for backcountry hunting. From the hot debate of Merino wool vs synthetic base layers to how to layer effectively without overpacking, this is your ultimate breakdown of what to wear...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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1:15:39
Gear Talk Pt 1: Basecamp vs Backpack Hunting | Backcountry Nutrition, Gear Tips
In this episode, we dive deep into the backcountry, from the comfort of basecamp hunts to the grind of true backpack-style missions. We swap personal hunting stories, break down gear essentials like backcountry chairs, and talk about how to bal...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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1:13:32
The Hollywood Cameraman: Clint Easley
In this episode, we sit down with Clint Easley, a former architect to the stars turned full-time filmmaker and mountain hunter. From designing homes for Hollywood elites to filming in the remote wilds of Alaska, Clint’s story is one of bold tra...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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1:04:31
Dan Whitmus Stabbed Himself in Alaska and SURVIVED!
In this episode, we sit down with legendary hunting guide Dan Whitmus, a man who’s lived over 30 years in the wilderness guiding hunters through Alaska, Africa, New Zealand, and the American West. Dan shares jaw-dropping stories, including surv...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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1:01:46
They've Killed Over 20 wolves! Justin and Kate Small
Justin and Kate Small, two of the best predator hunters on the planet, share their expertise on wolf hunting tactics that can make you a more effective hunter.• Kate's background includes nursing in Tanzania where she spent four months ...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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1:09:27
GIANT IDAHO BEARS with Chris Young
In this episode, our host Chris Young shares the full story of his 2025 Idaho spring bear hunt. From rivers crossed with pack rafts to glassing for days in high mountain wind, this conversation captures the highs, lows, and lessons of a truly s...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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1:06:26
200" BUCKS AND LIGHTNING STRIKES
In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, filmmaker and backcountry hunter Martin Chagnovich shares the story behind his film Chasing 200, which documents his years-long pursuit of a 200-inch mule deer buck in the ru...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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1:16:54
Laying the Foundation: Welcome to the Mountain Dude Podcast
In this kickoff episode, host Chris Young along with the Initial Ascent owners Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes gather around the table to set the stage for something bigger than gear talk or hunting stories (though you’ll get plenty of both). Th...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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12:45
