Sitka Southeast Podcast

Everybody knows the Ranch Fairy for heavy arrows and fixed-blade broadheads—but that's not really what this conversation is about.In Episode 20, Jake sits down with Troy Fowler, aka the Ranch Fairy, to break down what actually makes a hunting arrow perform.And according to Troy, simply adding weight isn't the answer.We dive into arrow flight, bare-shaft tuning, arrow spine, FOC, fletching, mechanical vs. fixed-blade broadheads, broadhead sharpness, penetration, shot angles, and building a hunting-arrow system that gives you the greatest possible margin for error.Troy also tells the story of why he started experimenting in the first place. At one point, despite hunting mature pigs from controlled distances, he says he was only recovering around half of the animals he shot. That failure sent him down the rabbit hole of arrow construction, penetration, and eventually Dr. Ed Ashby's research.We even get into the ridiculous 1,035-grain arrow Troy once hunted pigs with—and why he eventually moved away from that extreme.But the biggest lesson from this episode is surprisingly simple:Before you argue about arrow weight, broadhead design, or FOC, make sure the arrow is actually flying straight.Because, as Troy puts it:“Sideways doesn't work.”If you're a bowhunter who has ever wondered whether your arrows are actually tuned, how much arrow weight you need, whether FOC really matters, or why your broadheads don't behave like your field points, this episode is for you.Discount Codes:Sitka Charlotte In Store Purchases - Podcast15Speed Broadheads - SSEP10Upcoming Store Events:- Save Tucker Town - 9/26- Watefowl Expo - 10/10

What can an Olympic archery coach teach a bowhunter?Quite a bit.In Episode 19, Landon and I sit down with Chris Webster, who served as head coach leading into the 2024 Paris Olympics and now works with elite-level U.S. archers.We talk about what separates good shooters from great shooters, why archers constantly try to solve execution problems with new equipment, how elite athletes train for pressure, and why the best-looking shot isn't always the most effective shot.Chris breaks down target panic, shot process, torque, form, draw weight, mental performance, repeatability, and what happens when tiny mistakes at the bow get magnified downrange.We also dive into Chris's path through the U.S. Army's World Class Athlete Program, the sacrifices involved in chasing an Olympic dream, and what coaching athletes at the highest level actually looks like.And eventually, Chris gives Landon and me a challenge:70 meters. Approximately 77 yards. Olympic target face. Match play.That should go well.Probably.If you're a bowhunter who has ever blamed your bow, fought target panic, struggled under pressure, chased more draw weight, or wondered whether your form is “correct,” this episode is for you.Discount Codes:In Store Purchase at Sitka Gear Charlotte - Podcast15Speed Broadheads - SSEP10

How much of what bowhunters believe today was built around equipment from 20 or 30 years ago?In Episode 18, Jake is joined by Dale Perry, owner of Evolution Outdoors, and Jeff Corderro, owner of Barefoot Archery, for a deep dive into broadheads, arrow setup, bow technology, tuning, and some of the biggest debates in modern archery.We talk about why mechanical broadheads developed a bad reputation, how today's bows and broadheads have changed the equation, what the recent arrow-ballistics data actually tells hunters, and why shooters can sometimes use the exact same study to confirm completely opposite opinions.Dale also explains the philosophy behind Evolution Outdoors, why he tells people not to blindly trust product owners, how a hunting problem led him into broadhead design, and why some conventional assumptions about broadhead sharpness, penetration, and deployment may deserve another look.Jeff brings the bow-shop perspective—what he sees from new shooters, what actually matters when setting up equipment, why modern bows have become easier to tune, and what archery shops need to do to stay relevant as customers become increasingly educated online.We cover:Mechanical vs. fixed broadheads, arrow weight, FOC, broadhead flight, penetration, draw weight, paper tuning, bare-shaft tuning, bow efficiency, hunting ethics, shot recovery, the future of archery shops, and why the best answer is often somewhere in the middle.If you're the type of bowhunter who likes to understand why your equipment works instead of simply being told what to shoot, this episode is for you.

In Episode 17, we're joined by Brian Souza, founder and owner of Bizz Baits, to hear the story behind one of North Carolina's homegrown fishing brands.Bizz Baits didn't begin with investors, a factory, or some master business plan.It started as a college marketing assignment.From making baits in apartments and garages to working other jobs just to keep the dream alive, Brian walks us through the years of sacrifice behind building Bizz Baits—and the moments when he genuinely wondered whether he'd wasted his 20s chasing something that might never work.We also dive deep into the fishing side of the business: how new baits are designed, what makes a product stand out in a crowded market, how forward-facing sonar has changed lure development, the economics behind a $5 fishing lure, bait color, salt and scent, manufacturing, and what Bizz Baits is building next.But the biggest lesson from this episode might not be about fishing at all.It's about what happens when the thing you started becomes bigger than you.Discount Codes:Sitka Charlotte Store 15% off - Podcast15Speed Broadheads 10% off - SSEP10

Speed Broadheads entered an industry dominated by the same fixed-blade-versus-mechanical debate—but their founders believe bowhunters are asking the wrong questions.In Episode 16 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast, we sit down with the team behind Speed Broadheads to break down the engineering, testing, and hunting philosophy behind their unique broadhead design.We discuss why some mechanical broadheads can lose significant energy during blade deployment, how broadheads may deflect on quartering shots, why fixed blades can become difficult to tune, and why perfect penetration means nothing if the broadhead does not hit where you are aiming.The Speed team also explains how they use high-speed cameras, shooting machines, ballistic gel, plywood, angled-impact testing, low-poundage bows, and crossbows to evaluate broadhead performance.We also cover:Fixed blades versus mechanical broadheads.Why deployment force matters.The difference between a bullet-hole entrance and immediate blade deployment.How wound shape affects blood trails.Broadhead flight and tuning.Heavy arrows versus lighter arrow setups.Why there is no single perfect arrow build.How practice broadheads can produce misleading results.Ethical shot placement and shoulder impacts.The future of Speed Broadheads.Whether you shoot a fixed blade, mechanical broadhead, heavy arrow, or lighter high-speed setup, this conversation will make you reconsider what really matters when choosing your hunting equipment.As always, mention the podcast in the store and recieve 15% off your purchase at check out!! Also, use code SSEP10 at checkout to get 10% off your Speed Broadheead purchase!

In Episode 15, we're joined by Steven Lucius and Chuck McDonald of Wildrose Carolinas, one of the premier retriever training programs in the country. Whether you're raising your first hunting puppy or have hunted over dogs for years, this episode is packed with practical advice that can help you build a calmer, more confident, and more capable hunting companion.We dive into the Wildrose philosophy of developing the "Gentleman's Gundog"—a retriever that excels in the field while remaining a trusted family companion at home. Steven and Chuck explain why they intentionally challenge many traditional retriever training methods, what they look for when evaluating young puppies, and the common mistakes that create long-term problems for hunting dogs.We also break down the progression from an 8-week-old puppy to a finished hunting dog, discussing obedience, steadiness, marking, water work, upland and waterfowl introductions, and how one dog can confidently hunt ducks, geese, doves, quail, and more. Finally, we cover summer training strategies, keeping your dog safe in the heat, and how to continue making progress during the off-season.Whether you own a Labrador, are thinking about getting your first hunting dog, or simply want to become a better handler, this conversation is full of timeless advice that every hunter can benefit from.In this episode:The Wildrose philosophy and the "Gentleman's Gundog"What separates Wildrose from traditional retriever programsHow to choose the right hunting puppyThe biggest mistakes owners make during the first 90 daysWhy temperament often matters more than driveBuilding confidence and trainabilityThe complete progression from puppy to hunting companionHow one dog can excel at ducks, geese, doves, quail, and upland huntingSummer training and heat safety tips for gun dogsAs always, mention the podcast in the store and recieve 15% off your purchase at check out!!

n Episode 14 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast, we sit down with North Carolina State Deer Biologist April Pope to dive deep into the science behind whitetail deer behavior and how hunters can use it to become more successful throughout the entire season.Topics Covered:• How April Pope became NC's State Deer Biologist• What wildlife biologists actually do• The Triangle Urban Deer Study• A year in the life of a whitetail deer• Early season buck and doe behavior• The truth about the October Lull• Pre-rut and rut movement• Secondary and tertiary rut explained• Mock scrapes, calling, rattling, and scents• CWD management and testing• Why North Carolina needs more doe harvestIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe for more conversations with wildlife biologists, conservation professionals, and some of the most knowledgeable hunters in the country.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.

Whether you're chasing whitetails from a tree stand or climbing thousands of feet after elk, your body can become one of your greatest hunting tools—or your biggest limitation.In Episode 13 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast, Jacob Norris sits down with Preston Meyer of 1st Phorm Outdoors to explore the intersection of hunting and fitness. From strength and endurance to nutrition, recovery, and mental toughness, Preston explains why preparing your body can make you a more capable, confident, and effective hunter in the field.We dive into Preston's journey to 1st Phorm Outdoors, the mission behind the platform, and why today's hunters should approach training more like athletes. We also discuss common mistakes hunters make before season, the role nutrition and supplementation play on demanding hunts, managing buck fever, and how embracing discomfort builds success both in hunting and in life.Whether you're preparing for your first deer season or your next western adventure, this episode will challenge the way you think about hunting performance.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.Learn more about st Phorm Outdoors Here: https://1stphorm.com/pages/1stphormoutdoorsHost: Jake Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (‪‪@BruteModeCollective‬ )Special Guest: Preston Meyer (@_prestonmeyer_)(@1stphormoutdoors)

Every hunter has a different story—and a different gear setup.For episode 12, we spent the day at the annual SITKA Charlotte Garage Sale talking with hunters from all over the Southeast to learn what they're shopping for, where they're headed this season, and the advice they'd give anyone trying to build the right hunting kit.From first-time hunters to seasoned veterans, you'll hear about upcoming whitetail, elk, turkey, and waterfowl hunts, the gear they refuse to hunt without, and how they make smart decisions when investing in clothing and equipment.Whether you're planning your own hunt this fall or just enjoy hearing hunting stories from fellow outdoorsmen and women, this episode offers an authentic look at our hunting community and the people behind it.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnori15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson ( @BruteModeCollective  )

In Episode 11 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast, we sit down with Jaycey Stone, co-founder of Sisterhood of the Hunt, to discuss why the future of hunting depends on building stronger communities and welcoming more people into the outdoors. Jaycey shares her journey into hunting, the inspiration behind founding Sisterhood of the Hunt, and how the organization is helping women across the country gain the confidence, knowledge, and community they need to become lifelong hunters.We also dive into one of the most overlooked topics in conservation: how hunting license sales and the Pittman-Robertson Act directly fund wildlife management, habitat restoration, and conservation efforts across North Carolina and the United States. From the importance of introducing children—especially daughters—to hunting, to breaking down the barriers that keep new hunters from getting started, this episode explores what it will take to preserve our hunting heritage for future generations.Finally, we discuss the evolution of women's hunting gear, common mistakes new hunters make, the role of mentorship, and why community is one of the most powerful tools we have for growing hunting the right way.Whether you're a lifelong hunter, brand new to the outdoors, or simply passionate about conservation, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and perspectives you won't want to miss.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.Host: Jake Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (‪‪@BruteModeCollective‬ )Special Guest: Jaycey Stone (@sisterhoodofthehunt)

In Episode 10 of the Sitka North Carolina Podcast, we sit down with mechanical engineer, bowhunter, and Additive Archery founder Thomas Pham to dive into the endless world of archery tinkering. From building custom gear to solve his own problems to launching a business centered around innovation through 3D printing, Thomas shares how small adjustments—not constant upgrades—can make the biggest difference in your shooting. We also tackle some of the hottest debates in modern archery, including FOC, broadheads, gear trends, bow setup, and why consistency will always beat chasing the latest fad. Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter, an archery gear junkie, or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical insights that will help you better understand your equipment and become a more effective archer.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.Host: Jake Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (‪ ⁨@BruteModeCollective⁩ )Special Guest: Thomas Pham ( ⁨@Fulldraw_Tundra⁩ )

Episode 9 of the Sitka Southeast Podcas, Jake and Landon are joined by a very special guest, John Barklow—Senior Product Manager for Hunting at Sitka Gear and the driving force behind SITKA’s whitetail and western big game systems.In this episode, John walks us through his incredible journey from joining the U.S. Navy at 19, to decades of military service training special operations communities in extreme mountain environments, to becoming one of the most respected voices in modern hunting gear design. We get into the work behind the scenes at SITKA—how new products are designed, tested, and refined before ever reaching the hunter. We also cover the Fall 2026 lineup, including deep dives into whitetail and western systems and much, much more.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.Host: Jake Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson ( @BruteModeCollective  )Special Guest John Barklow ( @knowledgefromstorms8262  )

In Episode 8 of the SITKA Southeast Podcast, Jacob and Landon sit down with Hunter Purdue, a Master Wildlife Enforcement Officer with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, for one of our most informative conversations yet. We dive deep into what it really means to protect and manage North Carolina’s public lands while uncovering what hunters need to know before stepping into the woods this fall.In this episode we cover what a Wildlife Enforcement Officer actually does in North Carolina, how North Carolina game lands are acquired and funded, the biggest challenges facing North Carolina public lands today,t he most common game land violations officers encounter, and much more. If you hunt North Carolina Public Lands....the epsiode is for you.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast for 15% off your next purchase.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson ( @BruteModeCollective  )Special Guest: Hunter Perdue (@ncwildlife)

In Episode 7 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast, we're joined by North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission District 6 Wildlife Biologist, Rupert Medford.Rupert brings years of experience studying deer behavior and habitat management as he sits down with Jake and Landon to discuss what truly makes prime mature buck habitat and how hunters can learn to recognize it in the field. We dive into effective trail camera strategies, understanding deer movement, and practical ways to reduce human pressure on the properties we hunt.Whether you're managing your own hunting property, scouting public land, or simply trying to better understand mature whitetail behavior and habitat, this episode is packed with valuable insights from a professional wildlife biologist.As always come into the store and mention the podcast to receive 15% off your next purchase.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Special Guest: Rupert Medford (@ncwildlife)(@rupertmedford)

Jacob, Jay, and Landon sit down with Corey Oakley, Chief of Inland Fisheries for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, for an in-depth conversation about the science and strategy behind managing North Carolina’s fisheries. In this episode, we dive into bass management (F1 Bass Program and Alabama Bass), the role of aquatic vegetation and plant life beneath Lake Norman, and how habitat impacts fish populations and angler success. Corey shares insight into fisheries management decisions, conservation efforts, and what anglers should know about the future of one of North Carolina’s most talked-about lakes. Whether you're a hardcore bass fisherman, conservation enthusiast, or just curious about what’s happening beneath the surface, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.As always come into the store and mention the podcast to receive 15% off your next purchase.Also, be sure to check out Corey's Podcast "Better Fishing with Two Bald Biologists" to learn how to apply sound science to more fishing success.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Fishing Wizard: Jay Stevens (@quackwhackpack)Special Guest: Corey Oakley (@ncwildlife)Stay tuned for the next episode where we dive into all things regarding whitetail habitat as well as iuman Interferance and deer behavior with NC Wild Life's very own District 6 Wild Life Biologist, Rupert Medford. Deer hunters... you don't want to miss this one.

In this episode, Jacob, Landon, OT, and Jeff Cordero sit down to cover everything from Jeff’s career in NASCAR to balancing a demanding schedule with a passion for hunting. The crew dives into how Jeff makes time for the outdoors, early season archery preparation, practical bow practice tips, and advice on dialing in your archery setup before the season kicks off. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your shooting, fine-tune your gear, or hear how a NASCAR professional stays connected to hunting, this episode has something for every bowhunter.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast to recieve 15% off your next purhcase.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Gear Wizard: OT Mitchell (@owentatemitchell)Special Guest: Jeff Cordero (@jeffcordero_)Location: Stika Gear Charlotte (@sitkacharlotte)Stay tuned for the next episode where we discuss Lake Norman's F1 Bass Program, Lake Norman Drought Conditions, and much more with NC Wildlife Fisheries Biologist Corey Oakley.

The shift to whitetail season is officially underway for the Sitka Charlotte Crew. In Episode 4, Landon, OT, and Jake dive into our full whitetail prep process — from getting our properties ready for the upcoming season to dialing in our early scouting plans on both public and private land.We’re talking trail cameras, moving stand locations, habitat and land prep, and the gear that lives in our trucks all season long. We also break down the Sitka gear setups we’ll be running while scouting, covering miles, and preparing for opening day.If you’re already thinking about deer season, this episode is packed with practical prep, gear talk, and behind-the-scenes insight into how we approach the transition from spring to fall.As always, come into the store and mention the podcast to recieve 15% off your next purhcase.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Gear Wizard: OT Mitchell (@owentatemitchell)Location: Stika Gear Charlotte (@sitkacharlotte)Stay tuned for the next episode where we discuss summer archery practice, maintenance, and set ups.Time Line:03:14 - Episode Intro — The Shift to Whitetail Prep07:04 - Summer Camera Placement & Deer Patterning13:58 - Tracking Deer Data16:38 - Wind Direction, Thermals & Hunting Hill Country22:22 - Old Stands, Farm History & Hidden Hotspots26:24 - Saddle Hunting Setup & Tree Stand Mishaps32:14 - Why Saddle Hunting Changes the Game36:15 - Essential Gear Kept in the Truck All Season40:51 - Upcoming Hunts & Future Plans53:51 - Summer Scouting Gear Recommendations1:02:22 - Scrapes vs Rubs Debate1:16:11 - Upcoming Events & Future Guests

Episode 3 is here, and this one is all about fishing. We officially introduce Jay Stevens as our fishing co-host and sit down with special guest Tater Hog — professional fisherman and owner of his own freshwater bait company (Tater Hog Custom Lures).We dive into Tater’s background, how he got started in competitive fishing, and what led him into designing and making his own custom baits. We also break down post-spawn fishing tactics, seasonal patterns, bait selection, and strategies that can help you put more fish in the boat this time of year.Whether you’re a hardcore angler or just getting into fishing, this episode is packed with stories, insight, and practical tips from guys who live it every day.Check out Tater Hog's Custom Baits Here: https://taterhogcustomlures.com/Come in the store, mention the podcast, and recieve 15% off your purchase at check out.Make sure to follow/subscribe so you don't miss upcoming episodes.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Fishing Wizard: Jay Stevens (@quackwhackpack)Special Guest: Tater Hog (@tater_hog)Location: Sitka Gear Charlotte (@sitkacharlotte)Stay tuned for the next episode as we make the transition to Whitetail Season.Time Line:00:48 Introducing Jay Stevens & Tater Hog01:19 What This Episode Covers01:41 Where the Name “Tater Hog” Came From05:23 Why Lake Norman Produces Elite Anglers09:47 Breaking Down the Spawn & Post-Spawn Phase12:04 Why Post-Spawn Is Tater Hog’s Favorite Time to Fish14:12 Tater Hog’s Custom Baits Explained20:07 How Tater Hog Got Into Bait Making24:15 Transition Into Designing Custom Baits29:56 Strike King Partnership & Mass Production35:45 Breaking Down Post-Spawn Tournament Tactics45:40 – Moon Phases & Nighttime Shad Spawn Behavior50:10 – How Technology Changed Fishing53:35 – “Norman Has a Bait Problem, Not a Fish Problem”1:00:02 – Learning Lure Cadence in Real Time1:12:27 – Upcoming Sitka Charlotte Events

In this episode, we break down everything that’s been happening so far this turkey season. The Sitka Charlotte Staff shares real stories from the field—what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the lessons learned along the way.We also take a deep dive into Sitka Turkey Gear, talking through what we’ve been running this season, what stands out, and how we have adapted the gear to fir our hunting styles. Mentiont the podcast in the store at checkout and get 15% off your purchase.If you’re chasing gobblers this spring or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical insights, honest feedback, and boots-on-the-ground experience.Topics include:- Early season turkey hunt recaps- Successes, close calls, and tough lessons- Sitka turkey gear breakdown- What we’re changing moving forwardMake sure to follow/subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes, and let us know what you want to hear next.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Gear Wizard: OT Mitchell (@owentatemitchell)Special Guest: Catie Pearson (@catie.outdoors)Location: Sitka Gear Charlotte (@sitkacharlotte)

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Sitka Southeast Podcast. Filmed out of our Charlotte, NC Store. In our debut episode, we introduce Jacob, Landon, and OT from the store staff and dive into who they are, their backgrounds, and how they got here. We also talk about turkey hunting season so far, discuss Sitka Gear, share stories from the field, and give you a preview of what’s coming in future episodes. Whether you’re into hunting, gear, or good conversation, this is the perfect place to start.Host: Jacob Norris (@jnorri15)Co-Host: Landon Pearson (@brutemodecollective)Gear Wizard: OT Mitchell (@owentatemitchell)Location: Sitka Gear Charlotte (@sitkacharlotte)