How To Hunt Deer - Velvet Bucks, Gear, & Mock Scrapes

Sometimes, a simple walk in the woods reveals lessons more profound than any textbook — a reminder of life's fragile blessings and the relentless pursuit of what truly matters. In this powerful episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share personal stories from hospital visits to family moments that reshape our perspectives on hunting, parenthood, and perseverance.Dan takes us through his recent weekend at a children's hospital, where witnessing young patients battling serious illnesses starkly shifted his view on life's hardships. That experience fuels a deeper conversation on gratitude, resilience, and recognizing the health and family blessings we often take for granted — all while planning the upcoming deer season with renewed purpose and mindfulness. Meanwhile, Jason reflects on the delicate art of parenting, managing expectations, and balancing discipline with love, reminding us that every challenge, whether in the stand or at home, teaches patience and resolve.You'll discover:How a child's emergency surgery inspired a renewed appreciation for life's blessingsTactical tips on using mock scrapes and trail cameras to improve your deer hunting strategyParenting lessons learned through funny and heartfelt stories about lying, discipline, and honestyThe importance of staying flexible amidst fluctuating permission and land access issuesPractical advice for gear setup, food plotting, and scouting to maximize your hunting seasonWhy does this matter? Because ignoring life's small blessings risks losing sight of the bigger picture — family, health, and the simplicity of being present. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the woods, this episode offers a reminder that patience, perspective, and preparation go hand in hand. The stories and insights shared will motivate you to enjoy the journey, not just the harvest.Perfect for hunters juggling family life, gear geeks looking for the latest in trail camera tech, or anyone seeking a meaningful perspective shift — tune in to reconnect with what truly matters and get inspired for the season ahead. This episode is your reminder to hunt smarter, parent better, and appreciate every moment.Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy