Afield with Christiana Roussel

In this episode of Afield, Ellis Terry sits down with legendary outdoorsman and Buckmasters founder Jackie Bushman to discuss the remarkable story behind one of the most influential brands in hunting history. From his days as a nationally ranked tennis player and Auburn athlete to building Buckmasters into a household name among hunters, Jackie shares the journey that helped shape modern deer hunting, outdoor television, conservation, and hunting culture across America.Over four decades, Jackie has pioneered some of the outdoor industry's biggest innovations, including Buckmasters Magazine, the Buckmasters Classic, outdoor television programming, youth outreach initiatives, adaptive hunting programs, and conservation efforts that continue to impact hunters nationwide. He also reflects on growing up in Alabama, introducing kids to the outdoors, the importance of hunting camps, and how social media is changing the future of outdoor storytelling.The conversation dives into:• The founding and growth of Buckmasters• Alabama deer hunting and Southern hunting traditions• The early days of outdoor television and hunting media• Building one of the first nationally televised hunting shows• Conservation, hunter advocacy, and wildlife management• The Buckmasters Expo and Buckmasters Classic• Introducing children and families to hunting and fishing• Adaptive hunting programs for disabled hunters, veterans, and special-needs youth• Turkey hunting, bowhunting, and whitetail deer strategy• Hunting camps, outdoor friendships, and lifelong memories• Entrepreneurship, branding, and building a lasting legacyThis episode is a must-listen for deer hunters, outdoorsmen, conservationists, Buckmasters fans, and anyone passionate about Alabama outdoor culture, hunting traditions, and the people who helped shape the modern outdoor industry.Hosted by Ellis TerryPresented by Poarch Creek Indians

In this episode of Afield, Ellis Terry sits down in Birmingham, Alabama with James Beard Award-winning chef and lifelong outdoorsman Chris Hastings. Known nationally for Hot and Hot Fish Club, OvenBird, and Highlands Bar & Grill, Chris shares the untold story behind his deep connection to hunting, fishing, Southern food culture, and the Alabama outdoors.From growing up fishing the South Carolina coast and learning to fly fish as a kid to discovering turkey hunting, dove shoots, duck camps, and wild game cooking after moving to Alabama in the 1980s, Chris explains how the outdoors shaped both his life and his approach to food.The conversation dives into:• Alabama hunting culture and Southern sporting traditions• Turkey hunting, duck hunting, dove hunting, and quail hunting• Wild game cooking tips from a James Beard Award-winning chef• Birmingham’s rise as a Southern food destination• The story behind Hot and Hot Fish Club and OvenBird• Fly fishing, conservation, and coastal traditions• Cooking wild turkey, duck, dove, and quail properly• Southern hospitality, camp culture, and gathering around foodThis episode is a must-listen for Alabama outdoorsmen, hunters, anglers, food lovers, and anyone passionate about Southern culture and the outdoors.Hosted by Ellis TerryPresented by Poarch Creek Indians

In this episode of Afield, presented by the Poarch Creek Indians, Season 2 host Ellis Terry sits down with legendary turkey hunter Mike Pentecost, founder of WoodHaven Custom Calls, in Heflin during the opening week of Turkey Season 2026.From building turkey calls in a basement woodshop to leading one of the most respected brands in the hunting industry, Mike shares the story behind his craft, his faith, and the relentless pursuit of doing things the right way—even when no one is watching.This episode dives deep into the art of turkey hunting, including calling techniques, woodsmanship, and the philosophy behind what Mike calls the “gentleman’s chess match” between hunter and turkey.

In this episode of Afield with Christiana Roussel, we sit down in Homewood, Alabama with Luke Kolbie, founder of Avontuur and Kingfisher Leatherworks, and CEO of Russell Moccasin.What started as a teenage passion for crafting a better cartridge bag in Southwest Georgia has grown into a bold undertaking. Reviving a 125-year-old American heritage brand, building a coalition of master craftsmen, and redefining conservation through craftsmanship.Luke shares the story behind acquiring Russell Moccasin in 2022, preserving its generational boot making traditions in Berlin, Wisconsin, and modernizing the business without compromising its soul. We dive into the Conservation Through Craftsmanship Coalition (CCC), the philosophy of making products that last generations—not seasons—and why repairability, sustainability, and Southern values matter more than ever in today’s throwaway culture.From dove fields and bird dogs to Namibia’s Kalahari Desert, vintage heritage gear, and artisan brands made in the American South, this conversation explores:• The revival of Russell Moccasin and American-made boots • Kingfisher Leatherworks and heirloom-quality hunting gear • Conservation through craftsmanship as a sustainable business model • Southern heritage brands and small-batch manufacturing • Why buying once (and buying well) mattersIf you care about upland hunting, wildlife conservation, heritage craftsmanship, American-made goods, or the stories behind the products you wear and use—this episode is for you.Follow along for more conversations at the intersection of field sports, conservation, and culture.

In this episode of Afield, we step inside the world of Alabama Sawyer, where fallen city trees are reborn as heirloom furniture with soul. Host Christiana Roussel visits the Birmingham workshop of Leigh and Cliff Spencer, the husband-and-wife team behind Alabama Sawyer—an acclaimed design studio turning urban timber into custom furniture, guitars, and one unforgettable Turkey Credenza (yes, really 🦃).Cliff, a Birmingham native and self-described “wood whisperer,” shares his journey from building theater sets in New York and working in film in Los Angeles to founding a nationally recognized furniture company rooted in sustainability. Lee brings the big-picture perspective, discussing strategy, community, and how Birmingham’s creative ecosystem—especially Make Birmingham—helped shape Alabama Sawyer’s path.Together, they explore craftsmanship, conservation, and what it means to design with intention—honoring the full life of a tree and creating work meant to last generations.In this episode, you’ll hear about:What urban timber really means and why it mattersHow fallen Alabama trees are saved from landfills and transformed into furniture, flooring, and artThe full tree-to-table process: log, kiln, and finished pieceAlabama Sawyer’s most popular designs, including the Winston TableWhy so-called “junk trees” like hackberry and sweet gum deserve a second lookLimited-run guitars crafted from salvaged Alabama ashFeatured in Garden & Gun, Southern Living, Food & Wine, and Architectural Digest, Alabama Sawyer blends organic modern design with deep Southern roots—proving sustainability and beauty can go hand in hand.Whether you’re into design, woodworking, architecture, conservation, or Southern stories, this episode is for you.Learn more & follow:Alabama Sawyer: https://alasaw.comGarden & Gun feature: https://gardenandgun.com/articles/alabama-sawyer/Instagram: @soulgrown_alabamaHost: @christiana.russellInterested in sponsoring or supporting Afield?📧 [email protected] or DM @soulgrown_alabama on Instagram

In this episode of AFIELD, host Christiana Roussel sits down with Marilyn Vetter, President and CEO of Quail Forever and Pheasants Forever, for an in-depth conversation on conservation, leadership, and the future of upland wildlife. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in quail hunting, wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, upland birds and outdoor heritage. Marilyn discusses the mission of Quail Forever, the importance of bobwhite quail habitat restoration, and how hunters, private landowners, and public agencies work together to protect grasslands and wildlife ecosystems across Alabama and beyond. She explains how conservation biologists partner with landowners, how Farm Bill programs support habitat preservation, and why upland hunting traditions are deeply connected to sustainable wildlife management.The conversation also explores Marilyn’s passion for hunting dogs, public lands access, leadership lessons, and why taking risks can lead to meaningful change. From restoring native prairie and improving water quality to expanding public access for hunters, Marilyn outlines a clear vision for the future of conservation in America.

Christiana Roussel sits down with Alabama Wildlife Federation's Executive Director, Tim Gothard, to talk about his passion for wildlife, taking care of Alabama's outdoor resources and raising up the next generation of land stewards!

Forester and conservationist, Kyle Lybarger, sits down with Christiana Roussel in a location special to him, his heritage, and his passion for the outdoors in Alabama.Kyle shares with Christiana the importance of protecting, replanting, and maintaining native species in Alabama and beyond. His talks about his work discovering new species and how social media has given him a platform to raise awareness, educating people who would never consider themselves conservationists, on the meaningful ways they can be stewards of the land around them. Born and Raised in Morgan County Alabama, Kyle Lybarger has been exploring the outdoors for as long as he can remember. This has led him to an interest in wildlife and eventually a Forestry Degree from Alabama A&M. After college he gained an interest in the overlooked grasslands of North Alabama which pushed him to start educating through social media and ultimately to founding the Native Habitat Project.

In this heartfelt episode of Afield, presented by Gusto Hunting Preserve, host Christiana Roussel sits down with outdoorswoman and content creator Alyssa Hall, better known as Aly from Alabama.From grabbing giant catfish with her bare hands (a Southern tradition known as noodling) to becoming a passionate whitetail hunter, mother, and steward of conservation — Aly shares her journey from suburban life to a faith-filled outdoor lifestyle in Alabama.They dive deep into:What noodling catfish actually feels (and sounds!) likeLearning to hunt later in life — and overcoming fear and doubtsRaising kids with values in a digital worldFinding God in the quiet of the woodsBalancing marriage, motherhood, and work at BuckmastersConservation, catfish stories ( Larry), and the power of saying “yes” to new experiencesWhether you're into hunting, fishing, faith, motherhood, or Southern life, this conversation is an inspiring reminder of how the outdoors can transform us. Follow Aly: @alyfromalabama Follow Christiana: @christiana.roussel Follow Soul Grown: @soulgrown_alabama Presented by: Gusto Hunting Preserve Support conservation: quailforever.org | alabamawildlife.org

In this episode of Afield, host Christiana Roussel sits down with Commissioner Chris Blankenship, head of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, for an in-depth conversation about the future of Alabama’s natural resources and outdoor opportunities.🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:The debut of brand-new lakefront cottages at Wind Creek State Park 🌊Commissioner Blankenship’s career journey—from game warden on Dauphin Island to leading the state’s conservation effortsThe Forever Wild Land Trust and its 300,000+ acres of preserved land across Alabama 🌿How conservation impacts local economies, especially in the Black Belt region through hunting, fishing, and timberMajor projects including new boat ramps, the Forever Wild Field Trial Area, and a $228M investment in state parksThe history and global recognition of the Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo 🎣Beach restoration efforts and new public access initiatives on Alabama’s Gulf Coast 🏖SEEK Alabama and the push to use outdoor recreation as a key driver for talent recruitment and retention in the stateOutdoor Alabama Academy and the Adult Mentor Program that are helping new generations discover hunting and fishingWhether you’re passionate about conservation, love Alabama’s great outdoors, or just want to hear how smart investments in land and water shape communities and economies, this episode is for you.🌐 Learn more: seekalabama.com👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to SoulGrown for more stories from Alabama. soul-grown.com

In this episode Christiana sits down with Pam Swanner, President of Alabama Blackbelt Adventures. As one of the most popular hunting destinations in the state, Pam shares her passion for the outdoors, explains which hunt she thinks is the perfect hunt for a woman getting into the sport, and why the Belt Belt region’s rich landscape attracts tourism from all over the world.

In this episode of Afield, Christiana sits down with renowned Alabama chef and James Beard semifinalist Rob McDaniel to explore the intersections of food, faith, and conservation. Christiana shares a fun throwback picture of Chef Rob during a live-fire cooking event, after his first Birmingham restaurant, Helen has been a hit, Chef Rob is now diving deep into sustainable seafood with the launch of Bayonet—his new oyster-forward restaurant in Birmingham. As always, this episode isn’t just about food—it’s a heartfelt conversation about connecting to the land, preserving ecosystems, and how his spirituality and Southern upbringing influence every dish.About Chef Rob McDaniel: Rob is a six-time James Beard semifinalist and Executive Chef of Helen and Bayonet in Birmingham, AL. A graduate of Auburn University and the New England Culinary Institute, he blends Southern heritage, open-fire cooking, and a conservation-minded ethos into every dish.

In this premier episode of Afield, presented by Gusto Hunting Preserve, host Cristiana Roussel sits down with acclaimed wildlife artist and Alabama native Vaughan Pursell Spanjer. Broadcasting from the scenic backdrop inside Vaughan's studio at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, Alabama, this conversation weaves together themes of Southern heritage, outdoor living, and creative purpose.Vaughan’s journey begins on a 3,200-acre family property filled with creeks, hills, and hardwoods—an Alabama outdoor paradise that deeply informs her work. From barefoot childhoods chasing crawdads to painting blue herons and bird dogs, Vaughan’s connection to nature is not just nostalgic—it’s foundational. Her wildlife-inspired art reflects not only the biodiversity of the South but also a reverence for the land, instilled by a creative family and a lifestyle immersed in nature.Vaughan shares with Christiana about how her early dreams of fashion design took her from Auburn University to the fast-paced world of New York City, working for boutique designer Adam Lippes. But the grind of the industry and a season of infertility led her to a pivotal moment of reflection. While on bed rest, Vaughan reconnected with her artistic roots, starting with charcoal sketches, moving into self-taught watercolor, and ultimately creating a body of work that now graces homes, galleries, and retreats across the South.Listeners will be inspired by how Vaughan balances motherhood, artistry, and outdoor stewardship. She opens up about her faith, the influence of Southern topography, and the power of saying no to perfectionism. Her storytelling is peppered with reflections on creativity as a spiritual practice, the legacy of family, and the unique light and textures found only in the South.This episode also highlights Vaughan’s role as the founder of Hearts of Rest, a women’s faith-based creative retreat hosted at Pursell Farms. The retreat focuses on restoration, creativity, and community, making use of the natural surroundings to create space for women to reconnect with themselves and their purpose.A special moment in the episode: Vaughan’s recent artist residency in Northern France, which added new dimensions of looseness and abstract inspiration to her classically Southern style. Still, she always returns to her roots—specifically, her “secret place” at Pursell Farms, a mountaintop view where she finds peace, prays, and reflects.Whether you're a fan of wildlife conservation, Southern landscapes, outdoor living, or simply the art of storytelling, this episode offers a beautiful reminder of how the outdoors can shape our creativity, faith, and sense of purpose.