This is where the real conversations about hunting happen.

On Episode 7 of First For Hunters, host Craig Kauffman sits down with Shane Black, owner of Canada North Outfitting — one of the most respected operations and a man who has spent his life guiding hunters through some of the wildest country left on the continent.

From the tundra to the timber, Shane has seen firsthand what sustainable hunting and real conservation look like on the ground.

No politics. No filters.

Just hard-earned perspective from someone whose livelihood — and way of life — is tied directly to the health of wildlife and the future of hunting.

For Shane, hunting isn’t a pastime — it’s a responsibility.

The animals, the land, and the traditions that surround them don’t take care of themselves. They depend on hunters who understand the role they play in conservation and the organizations willing to stand up and fight for it.

Support the show

In this episode of the First For Hunters Podcast, we sit down with Rob Keck — a lifelong hunter, conservationist, and one of the most respected voices in modern wildlife stewardship.

Rob spent more than two decades helping lead and grow the National Wild Turkey Federation, where he played a key role in one of the greatest conservation success stories in North America — the restoration of the wild turkey. During his tenure, the organization expanded its national impact, helping conserve millions of acres of habitat while strengthening the connection between hunters, wildlife management, and conservation funding.

Following his time at NWTF, Rob continued advancing conservation efforts through leadership roles with Bass Pro Shops, where he worked to elevate national conservation initiatives and strengthen partnerships across the outdoor industry. Throughout his career, his contributions to wildlife stewardship and the hunting community have earned recognition from organizations across the conservation space, including honors from Safari Club International.

In this conversation, Rob reflects on decades of leadership in conservation, the critical role hunters play in protecting wildlife and habitat, and why the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation remains the gold standard for responsible wildlife management. We also discuss the growing challenges facing hunting today — from misinformation to political pressure — and why unity within the hunting community has never been more important.

This is a powerful conversation with a man who has spent a lifetime ensuring that conservation, hunting traditions, and the freedoms that support them continue for generations to come.

If you believe being First For Hunters is more than a phrase — it’s a responsibility — this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Support the show

In this episode of the First For Hunters Podcast, we sit down with Jason St. Michael, Director of Membership and Chapter Services at Safari Club International, to talk about the heartbeat of SCI — its members.

From strengthening local chapters across the country to building a unified voice for hunters worldwide, Jason shares how SCI is mobilizing its grassroots network to protect hunting rights, advance conservation, and ensure the next generation stays engaged and equipped for the fight ahead. We dive into what membership truly means, why chapter involvement matters more than ever, and how collective action fuels SCI’s mission on a global scale.

This is a must-listen conversation for anyone who believes being “First For Hunters” isn’t just a slogan — it’s a commitment.

Support the show

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Meryl, President of Safari Club International, to talk about the future of hunting, conservation, and the fight to protect our rights. From defending science-based wildlife management to strengthening SCI’s global impact, Jeff shares what’s at stake—and why now is the time for hunters to stand united.

This is a must-listen conversation for anyone who believes hunting is more than a passion—it’s a responsibility.

Support the show

In Episode 3 of SCI’s First For Hunters podcast, we sit down with Barbara Crown from Safari Club International’s Hunter Information Services — a member-exclusive resource built to help hunters navigate the complex realities of hunting at home and abroad.

From traveling with firearms and navigating airline policies to importing gear, researching outfitters, and getting trophies home, Hunter Information Services exists to provide practical insight, real-time guidance, and problem-solving support so SCI members can plan hunts with confidence.

Barbara shares how the team helps hunters make informed decisions, stay compliant with ever-changing regulations, and overcome logistical challenges — whether it’s a first out-of-state hunt or an international adventure. The conversation also explores how the service supports ethical hunting, responsible travel, and SCI’s broader mission to protect and promote the hunter’s lifestyle.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes to keep hunters informed, prepared, and protected — this episode delivers a firsthand look at one of SCI’s most valuable member benefits.

Support the show

In Episode 2 of SCI’s First For Hunters Podcast, host Craig Kauffman sits down with J. Alain Smith for a no-BS conversation on the front lines of hunting advocacy and global conservation. From policy fights that directly impact hunters to the realities of protecting wildlife where it actually lives, this episode cuts through the noise and gets into what matters most.

They dig into the pressures facing international hunting, how legislation shapes opportunity in the field, and why boots-on-the-ground conservation and hunter involvement remain the backbone of wildlife management. Expect sharp perspective, insider context, and the kind of candid discussion that doesn’t happen in press releases.

If you care about the future of hunting, conservation credibility, and staying informed on the battles shaping both—this is one to queue up.

Support the show

The First For Hunters podcast launches with a straight-talk conversation about what’s at stake for hunters worldwide. Host Craig Kauffman sits down with Safari Club International CEO Laird Hamberlin to break down the real work happening behind the scenes — defending hunting rights, pushing back on anti-hunting legislation, and funding conservation where it matters most.

This episode sets the tone: SCI isn’t a brand. It’s a force.

From global policy battles to boots-on-the-ground conservation wins, Hamberlin lays out why advocacy matters now more than ever — and what happens if hunters stop paying attention. If you care about access, opportunity, and the future of wildlife, this is where the conversation starts.

Welcome to the front lines.

Support the show

In this episode, host Ben Cassidy visits Congressman Bruce Westerman, Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, to discuss what he and his colleagues are doing to promote and protect our hunting heritage on Capitol Hill.

Thanks for tuning in. Please drop us a like or subscribe!

Watch the full podcast here: https://youtu.be/W3zID0-iiGg

What to learn more about Safari Club International and its efforts to promote hunting and wildlife conservation worldwide? Use this link: https://safariclub.org/

Support the show