Hunting The Frontlines

Episode Description:"The uniform changes, but the mission to serve never does."In this powerful episode of Hunting the Frontlines, we sit down with Rocco Besednjak, a man whose life has been defined by service, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will to give back. Rocco’s journey began in the U.S. Navy, where he served until physical injuries cut his naval career short. Refusing to step away from the frontlines, he transitioned into law enforcement, serving with the Shepherdsville Police Department.Everything changed on a fateful night during a call that went tragically wrong—an incident so intense it was featured on Body Cam (Season 1, Episode 8). That night ended his career in uniform, but it sparked a new calling.Today, Rocco is the founder of Camp Hero Kentucky, a non-profit dedicated to providing Veterans and First Responders a sanctuary to hunt, heal, and reconnect away from the pressures of everyday life. We dive deep into his transition from the military to the police force, the reality of the accident that changed his life, and how he is now building a legacy of healing in the outdoors.Inside the Episode:* The Navy Years: Serving until the breaking point and the transition to the badge.* The Fateful Call: Rocco recounts the incident featured on Body Cam and the aftermath of a career-ending injury.* Finding Purpose in the Woods: How hunting became the catalyst for his own recovery.* Camp Hero Kentucky: The mission to ensure no Veteran or First Responder ever has to hunt for peace alone.* The Shepherdsville Legacy: Continuing to serve the community that stood by him.Learn more about Rocco’s mission: https://campheroky.orgThe Standard:"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." — John 15:13Listen now to hear a story of true resilience and the birth of a sanctuary for our nation's heroes.Network Partners:NEW: JinxEm Scents!!! Use code FRONTLINE15 to save 15% on your JinxEm Deer Attractants this season!* DEADNUTS Outdoors: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your order!* The Knee Bag Saddle Hunting Knee Rest and Shooting Rest Bag: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to get FREE SHIPPING on your order!* PUCK Tackle and Reed Call storage System: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to save 10%

Episode Description:"The uniform changes, but the mission to serve never does."In this powerful episode of Hunting the Frontlines, we sit down with Rocco Besednjak, a man whose life has been defined by service, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will to give back. Rocco’s journey began in the U.S. Navy, where he served until physical injuries cut his naval career short. Refusing to step away from the frontlines, he transitioned into law enforcement, serving with the Shepherdsville Police Department.Everything changed on a fateful night during a call that went tragically wrong—an incident so intense it was featured on Body Cam (Season 1, Episode 8). That night ended his career in uniform, but it sparked a new calling. Today, Rocco is the founder of Camp Hero Kentucky, a non-profit dedicated to providing Veterans and First Responders a sanctuary to hunt, heal, and reconnect away from the pressures of everyday life. We dive deep into his transition from the military to the police force, the reality of the accident that changed his life, and how he is now building a legacy of healing in the outdoors.Inside the Episode:* The Navy Years: Serving until the breaking point and the transition to the badge.* The Fateful Call: Rocco recounts the incident featured on Body Cam and the aftermath of a career-ending injury.* Finding Purpose in the Woods: How hunting became the catalyst for his own recovery.* Camp Hero Kentucky: The mission to ensure no Veteran or First Responder ever has to hunt for peace alone.* The Shepherdsville Legacy: Continuing to serve the community that stood by him.Learn more about Rocco’s mission: https://campheroky.orgThe Standard:"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." — John 15:13Listen now to hear a story of true resilience and the birth of a sanctuary for our nation's heroes.Network Partners:NEW: JinxEm Scents!!! Use code FRONTLINE15 to save 15% on your JinxEm Deer Attractants this season!* DEADNUTS Outdoors: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your order!* The Knee Bag Saddle Hunting Knee Rest and Shooting Rest Bag: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to get FREE SHIPPING on your order!* PUCK Tackle and Reed Call storage System: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to save 10%

Series Overview:What was intended to be a brief sit-down turned into a three-hour deep dive into the Army experience. Retired Army veteran Todd Neveau and host Justin Wilson pull back the curtain on military life, from the forge of basic training to the reality of the veteran transition. This is a raw, unfiltered look at the stories, the brotherhood, and the discipline that defines the American soldier. We have broken this marathon session into three parts to ensure nothing is left on the cutting room floor.Part 3Description:In the final installment of this series, the conversation comes full circle. Justin and Todd reflect on the long-term impact of service, the transition back to the civilian world, and how the standards set in the military continue to dictate their approach to business, family, and life today.* FRONTLINES PARTNER GEAR: * DEADNUTS Outdoors: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to save 10% and support the FRONTLINES! * The Knee Bag by Light The Fire Outdoors: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to get FREE SHIPPING and support the FRONTLINES! These also sponsor veteran hunting and fishing licenses across the USA! * PUCK Reed Call and Fly Fishing Storage Systems: Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to save 10% and support the FRONTLINES!We will see you on the frontlines!

Series Overview:What was intended to be a brief sit-down turned into a three-hour deep dive into the Army experience. Retired Army veteran Todd Neveau and host Justin Wilson pull back the curtain on military life, from the forge of basic training to the reality of the veteran transition. This is a raw, unfiltered look at the stories, the brotherhood, and the discipline that defines the American soldier. We have broken this marathon session into three parts to ensure nothing is left on the cutting room floor.Part 2Description:The conversation continues. In Part 2, Justin and Todd dive deeper into the grind, the humor found in the hardship, and the unique bonds formed through shared suffering. There is no script—just two Army buddies sharing the raw truth of life in the uniform.FRONTLINE PARTNERS GEAR: * DEADNUTS Outdoors 2D Targets: (Use Code: FRONTLINE10 to save 10% and support the show) * The Knee Bag Saddle Hunting Knee Rest and Shooting Bag: Use code FRONTLINE10 to get FREE SHIPPING and sponsor veteran hunting and fishing licenses across the USA! * PUCK Reed Call and Fly Fishing storage Systems: Use code FRONTLINE10 to save 10% and support the show!We will see you on the frontlines!

3 Part Series Overview:What was intended to be a brief sit-down turned into a three-hour deep dive into the Army experience. Retired Army veteran Todd Neveau and host Justin Wilson pull back the curtain on military life, from the forge of basic training to the reality of the veteran transition. This is a raw, unfiltered look at the stories, the brotherhood, and the discipline that defines the American soldier. We have broken this marathon session into three parts to ensure nothing is left on the cutting room floor. Part 1Description:In the first installment of this three-part series, Justin and Todd begin a wide-ranging conversation on the military experience. They trade stories from the early days of service, the psychological shift of basic training, and the foundation of discipline that stays with a man for a lifetime.* HUNTING THE FRONTLINES PARTNERS: * DEADNUTS Outdoors 2D Targets: (Use Code: FRONTLINE10) * The KNEE BAG Knee Comfort and shooting rest for saddle hunters: Use Code FRONTLINE10 for FREE SHIPPING * PUCK Reed Call and Fly Fishing Tackle Storage Systems: Use code FRONTLINE10 for 10% off and to support the show!

Continuing the Mission with SFC Mike Unruh | Ridge 2 River Outdoors & The Fallen OutdoorsThe mission doesn't end when military service does—it simply changes.In this episode of Hunting the Frontlines, Justin Wilson sits down with retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Mike Unruh, founder of Ridge 2 River Outdoors and a leader with The Fallen Outdoors. Mike shares how he's continued serving veterans by helping connect them with the healing power of the outdoors, proving that purpose doesn't stop when the uniform comes off.Justin and Mike also reflect on their shared experiences serving as Army Military Working Dog handlers, discussing the unique bond between handlers and their dogs, the lessons that profession teaches, and how those experiences continue to shape their lives today.The conversation also dives into hunting across Missouri and beyond, the importance of mentorship, conservation, and building opportunities for veterans to reconnect through hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. Whether you're a veteran, hunter, or simply someone who appreciates stories of resilience and service, this episode is a reminder that the greatest missions often begin after military retirement.Thank you for listening to Hunting the Frontlines, where we share the stories of those who continue serving through the outdoors.Brought to you by DEADNUTS OUTDOORSTrain with confidence using ultra-realistic, American-made 2D archery targets trusted by hunters across the country. Use code Frontline10 at checkout for 10% OFF your order.Brought to you by Light The Fire Outdoors – The Knee Bag™Designed by hunters for hunters, The Knee Bag™ delivers unmatched comfort and stability for saddle hunting, tree stand hunting, and shooting from the field. Visit LightTheFireOutdoors.com and use code Frontline10 for FREE SHIPPING.Brought to you by PUCK OutdoorsInnovative gear designed to keep your hunt organized and efficient. From bow accessories to streamlined gear management, PUCK Outdoors helps you stay focused when it matters most. Use code Frontline10 for 10% OFF your purchase.Support the brands that support Hunting the Frontlines, and thank you for helping us continue sharing the stories of America's military community.Keep serving. Keep hunting. We'll see you on the frontlines.

The mission continues as we pick back up with Drill Sgt. Matt Rigg to explore the transition from the parade field to the hunting grounds. In Part 2, Matt shares his roots in the outdoors, detailing the specific challenges and rewards of hunting across Missouri and Texas.Hunting the Frontlines is dedicated to shortening the learning curve for service members stationed across the United States. Justin and Matt break down the "ins and outs" of navigating military base hunting and state-specific terrain. This isn't just about the harvest; it’s about the brotherhood formed in the woods and the tactical knowledge required to find success in the great outdoors, no matter where the military stations you.Support the Mission:* Deadnuts Outdoors: Precision matters. Use code FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your next 2D target at deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/frontline10* The Knee Bag by LTFO: Don't compromise on your setup. Use code FRONTLINE10 for FREE SHIPPING at prayinandslayin.com/gear* Puck Outdoors: Organize your gear with the best. Use code FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your order at puckoutdoors.com/discount/frontline10

Basic training is the forge of the American Military member, but behind the grit and discipline lies a collection of stories that every veteran carries. In Part 1 of this series, host Justin Wilson—a 22-year veteran—sits down with Active-Duty Drill Sergeant Matt Rigg for a "Back to Basics" deep dive. We’re stripping away the polish to share the raw, the difficult, and the undeniably hilarious experiences of the training cycle. Whether you’re a veteran looking for that common voice of camaraderie or a civilian curious about the reality of the forge, this episode delivers the insights only those who have lived it can provide. We honor the shared history of the uniform while bridging the gap between the barracks and the backcountry.Support the Mission:* Deadnuts Outdoors: Elevate your practice. Use code FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your next 2D target at https://www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/frontline10.* The Knee Bag by LTFO: The ultimate gear solution. Use code FRONTLINE10 for FREE SHIPPING on your order at https://prayinandslayin.com/gear.* Puck Outdoors: Protect your calls and tackle. Use code FRONTLINE10 for 10% off your order at puckoutdoors.com/discount/frontline10Stay safe!

🎙️ SEABEES, WYOMING ANTELOPE, AND OLD FRIENDS | ERIC MYERSJustin sits down with former Navy Seabee Eric Myers to catch up on life, service, and the dirt. This one is a long-overdue conversation between two old buddies who spent years serving their country and now spend their time chasing game in the great outdoors.What we cover:* Navy Life: Eric talks about his time as a Seabee and how that "Can Do" mindset carries over into the woods.* Wyoming Pronghorn: A look at the reality of chasing speed goats on the Wyoming plains.* The Banter: Just two friends talking shop, sharing stories, and laughing about the road that got them here.* The Connection: Why the outdoors is the best place for veterans to reconnect and find a new mission.***🤝 SUPPORT THE MISSIONDEADNUTS OUTDOORS 2D Targets – American-made 2D Targets that work with any backstop, for any pursuit (rifle and archery compatible) for full size and unparalleled realism in every practice shot before the season.Use code HTFL10 for 10% off. Your support helps The License to Kill Initiative get veterans back into the field, by sponsoring their hunting licenses!Share the Intel. Preserve the Heritage. Join the Ranks.

Back To Basic | Jess Todd – Basic Training Stories from the ArmyIntroducing a new segment on the Hunting The Frontlines Podcast: Back To Basic.This series is dedicated to sharing the stories that come out of one of the most defining experiences in a service member’s life — Basic Training. From funny moments to soul-crushing days, to the ones that built who we are today, these stories are as individual as they are shared across every branch of service.Justin started this series after constantly getting asked by civilians, “What is Basic Training really like?”And if you’ve been through it… you already know.It’s chaos, growth, exhaustion, laughter, and brotherhood all rolled into one. It’s something most of us would agree was one of the most fun experiences we never want to do again.In this first episode of Back To Basic, we continue the conversation with Jess Todd (Retired U.S. Army), following his appearance on the Ft. Hood hunting episode. Jess shares his personal Basic Training experience — the challenges, the moments that stuck with him, and the perspective that came from it.Podcast Partner: Deadnuts OutdoorsWe want to thank Deadnuts Outdoors for their continued support of this podcast and the veteran community. They produce some of the most realistic big game targets on the market, helping hunters get the reps they need before the season.Listeners can get 10% off their order by using code HTFL10 at checkout.Deadnuts Outdoors goes a step further by contributing an additional donation from every purchase using our code to the Light The Fire Outdoors “License to Kill Initiative,” which sponsors hunting and fishing licenses for veterans across the United States.Learn more and shop at: www.deadnutsoutdoors.comIf you have a story to share about your Basic Training experience, please let us know and we will get you on.Thank you for listening. Please like, share, and subscribe to the podcast to help us continue reaching more veterans and telling these stories.

Jess Todd | Ft. Hood Hunting, Bionic Backbones, and Staying in the Fight OutdoorsIn this episode of the Hunting The Frontlines Podcast, Justin sits down with Jess Todd, Retired U.S. Army, to talk about hunting opportunities around Ft. Hood, overcoming physical wear and tear from years of service, and what it takes to keep getting after it with “bionic backbones” and worn-out knees.This conversation is packed with Army-to-Army camaraderie, shared experiences, and a deep-rooted passion for hunting and the outdoors. Jess also shares the mission behind 1 Mission Outdoors — a nonprofit he founded that is making a real impact in the Central Texas outdoor community by creating opportunities for veterans to get back outside, reconnect, and continue the mission in a new way.No matter where life takes us after service, one thing remains the same — the military community is built on shared purpose, and the outdoors continues to be a place where that bond stays strong.Podcast Partner: Deadnuts OutdoorsWe want to thank Deadnuts Outdoors for their continued support of this podcast and the veteran community. They produce some of the most realistic big game targets on the market, helping hunters get the reps they need before the season.Listeners can get 10% off their order by using code HTFL10 at checkout.Deadnuts Outdoors goes a step further by contributing an additional donation from every purchase using our code to the Light The Fire Outdoors “License to Kill Initiative,” which sponsors hunting and fishing licenses for veterans across the United States.Learn more and shop at: www.deadnutsoutdoors.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it and subscribe to the podcast to help us reach more veterans and connect them with opportunities in the outdoors.

Episode Description:In this special co-hosted episode, Prayin and Slayin Podcast host Aaron Stonehocker joins Hunting The Frontlines Podcast host Justin Wilson for a candid, unscripted conversation reflecting on 2025 — the lessons, the growth, the hard moments, and the wins.Together, they unpack:The biggest takeaways from this year in podcasting and lifeWhere both shows are headed in 2026Vision, mission, and what continues to drive each platformThe importance of faith, service, and community in the outdoor spaceA few classic hunting storiesAnd yes… some unforgettable basic training memoriesThis episode is about brotherhood, purpose, and building something that lasts — both in the outdoor community and beyond it.Whether you’re a longtime listener of one show or just discovering both, this is a conversation that connects the dots between service, storytelling, and the future of the outdoor industry.🔥 Listen & ConnectWebsite (Home of Both Podcasts): https://lightthefireoutdoors.com/podcastPrayin and Slayin Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LightTheFireOutdoorsHunting The Frontlines Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=hunting%20the%20frontlines%20podcastSupport the MissionWhen you shop Light The Fire Outdoors gear, you directly help fuel the License to Kill Initiative, which sponsors hunting and fishing licenses for Veterans across the United States.Learn more or shop to support: https://lightthefireoutdoors.com/impact🎯 Network Partner: DEADNUTS OUTDOORS 2D TargetsTrain with purpose.DEADNUTS OUTDOORS 2D Targets are built to sharpen your edge in realistic shooting scenarios.Listeners of this episode get an exclusive 10% off their order by using code:prayin&slayinShop here: https://www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayinAnd when you use the code, you’re not just saving — you’re supporting a network that gives back.Two podcasts. One mission. Faith. Freedom. The Outdoors.Let’s build 2026 the right way. Keep Prayin & Slayin

In this episode, we head to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to talk hunting, service, and life beyond the uniform with retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Michael Bennett.CSM Bennett shares his experience hunting on and around one of the Army’s most historic installations, the unique opportunities and responsibilities that come with it, and how time in the outdoors remained a steady anchor throughout his military career. We also dive into leadership lessons shaped over decades of service, the role hunting played in maintaining balance, and why conservation and mentorship still matter long after retirement.This conversation is a reminder that hunting is about more than filling tags—it’s about stewardship, discipline, and carrying forward traditions rooted in service and responsibility.Prayin and Slayin Network Partner: This episode is brought to you by DEADNUTS OUTDOORS 2D Targets—100% made in the USA and built by real hunters for real-world practice. Use code HTFL10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order. Even better, DEADNUTS OUTDOORS donates an additional percentage of every purchase made with this code to Light The Fire Outdoors’ Veteran and Conservation Support Project, giving back to local communities across the USA.🎯 Train with purpose. Hunt with intention. Give back through the outdoors.Ft. Leavenworth MWR Resources:Fort Leavenworth Fox Hunt :: Ft. Leavenworth :: US Army MWR

🎙️ Hunting The Frontlines | Ft. Chad Parsons — Finding Purpose Beyond Service Through the OutdoorsIn this episode, host Justin Wilson sits down with U.S. Army Retired Chad Parsons, founder of the Veteran Help Foundation of Wyoming, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to helping disabled veterans rediscover purpose and belonging through the healing power of the outdoors.Chad shares his personal story of transition, his passion for helping others find their footing back home, and how community and outdoor experiences can change a veteran’s life for good. 🌄👉 Learn more about the Veteran Help Foundation of Wyoming:https://vhfwyo.my.canva.site/🔥 Presented in partnership with Light The Fire Outdoors — a veteran-owned and operated outdoor brand consulting business now producing mobile hunting gear made 100% in the USA by veterans.Shop gear and learn more and use code htfl2025 for 10% off: https://lightthefireoutdoors.com/gear💥 10% of all LTFO and Prayin & Slayin proceeds go directly to Veteran and Conservation Support Mission Projects across the U.S.🎯 Proudly supported by DEADNUTS OUTDOORS 2D Targets!Made 100% in the USA, these life-size 2D targets turn any backstop into your next hunting adventure. Get 10% OFF with code prayin&slayin — plus, a portion of every sale goes directly back to LTFO’s Veteran and Conservation Mission Fund.👉 www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayin

🎙️ Hunting The Frontlines | Ft. Joe Barry — Dog Handling, Hogs & Hidden Gems on Ft. Rucker, ALIn this episode, host Justin Wilson sits down with former Army SFC. Joe Barry to talk about life as a military dog handler, the unforgettable bonds forged in service, and the wild stories that followed him into the woods. Joe shares his experience hunting on Ft. Rucker, Alabama — one of the military’s best-kept hunting honey holes — including the adrenaline rush of hog hunting and discovering hidden hotspots on post that most folks never find.🐗 Want to hunt Ft. Rucker yourself?Check out official Ft. Rucker Hunting & Fishing info here:👉 https://rucker.armymwr.com/programs/hunting-and-fishing🪵 Support Joe’s craft:See his incredible custom woodwork at Rustic Ridge Woodworks:👉 https://www.facebook.com/rusticridgeww/🔥 Listen to more Hunting The Frontlines episodes:👉 https://lightthefireoutdoors.com/hunting-the-frontlines-1🎯 Special thanks to our partners at DEADNUTS OUTDOORS!Grab your 2D training targets and get 10% OFF your order using code prayin&slayin — plus, a portion of proceeds supports Veteran and Conservation programs across the country.👉 www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayin

Justin Wilson welcomes back USAF veteran Jeremy Bell on Hunting the Frontlines for a follow-up conversation sparked by their last episode together. After a flood of listener questions about Indiana hunting, Jeremy returns to break it all down—covering public land access, pressure, scouting strategies, and how he makes the most of his time chasing whitetails across the Hoosier State.Whether you’re stationed nearby, a local, or just curious about hunting Indiana’s public land, this episode gives you real-world answers straight from someone grinding it out in the field.🎯 Prayin and Slayin Podcast Network Partner Shoutout: Deadnuts Outdoors makes lightweight, compact, weatherproof 2D targets with unmatched realism—making shooting your bow every day more fun and the reps more real. Proudly made in the USA, supporting veterans, conservation, and the outdoors community. Listeners get 10% off their next 2D target at www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayin.

🎙️ Episode 2: Hunting Indiana with Jeremy Bell — Public, Private & Camp AtterburyHost Justin Wilson sits down with Jeremy Bell, a USAF veteran and die-hard public land hunter who’s been grinding it out across the Hoosier state. In this episode, they cover everything you need to know about hunting in Indiana — from private land access to navigating public opportunities and dialing in on one of the state’s key military hotspots: Camp Atterbury.Jeremy brings first-hand insight from years of boots-on-the-ground experience chasing whitetails and more in Indiana. Whether you're currently stationed nearby or just passing through, this episode is packed with practical info, veteran perspective, and field-tested tips to help you make the most of your time in the woods.💥 Network Partner Shoutout: DEADNUTS OUTDOORSLevel up your archery game with ultra-realistic 2D targets made right here in the USA. Head to www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayin to get 10% off your next target.Each purchase helps support the Light The Fire Outdoors Veteran and Conservation Support Mission, so you're not just training for the shot of a lifetime — you're giving back.

🎙️ Episode 1: Welcome to Hunting the Frontlines — with Guest Aaron StonehockerIn this launch episode of Hunting the Frontlines, host Justin Wilson kicks things off with a special guest and fellow veteran, Aaron Stonehocker, to introduce listeners to the mission behind the mic. This podcast is dedicated to giving veterans and active-duty military a leg up on hunting and outdoor opportunities at bases across the country — one post, one state at a time.Justin and Aaron dive into the inspiration behind the show, how it’s built to serve those who serve, and what you can expect moving forward — from boots-on-the-ground stories to expert tips on local tags, units, seasons, and public land access near base.Aaron shares some memorable hunts, lessons learned from his time hunting the frontlines, and a preview of the kinds of guests and base-specific breakdowns the podcast will feature in future episodes.🔥 Brought to you by our Network Partner: DEADNUTS OUTDOORSCheck out their made-in-the-USA 2D archery targets at www.deadnutsoutdoors.com/discount/prayin&slayin for 10% off.A portion of each sale supports the Light The Fire Outdoors Veteran and Conservation Support Mission — so every shot you take helps give back.Whether you’re stationed in the woods of Washington, the flats of Texas, or the coastlines of Virginia, Hunting the Frontlines is here to help you gear up, scout smart, and make the most of your time in uniform — outdoors.