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PODCAST · kids

The Father & Son Field Guide

The Father and Son Field Guide is a weekly podcast hosted by 8-year-old Walker and his dad, Ryan. Together, they explore big questions, small lessons, and everything in between—from “Why do people quit when things get hard?” to “What does it mean to be brave?”Each 40–45 minute episode is packed with real conversations, laughter, kid-approved jokes, surprising fun facts, and thoughtful reflections on growing up, learning together, and being human. It’s a podcast for curious kids, caring parents, and anyone who loves honest questions and meaningful moments shared around the metaphorical campfire.Whether you’re on a car ride, winding down for bed, or just looking for something uplifting and real, grab your field guide and come along. There’s always something new to discover.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Jun 13, 2026 · Source feed

  1. 34

    Ep. 34: Are you Kitten Me?!

    In this episode of The Father and Son, I mean Daughter, Field Guide, Millie is behind the microphone talking about everything cats! Come along as we learn some cool cat facts like how they love cardboard or how they use their whiskers! And as always, we have some jokes that are sure make you giggle. 

  2. 33

    Ep. 33: Man's Best Friend!

    In this episode of The Father And Son Field Guide, Walker covers his favorite facts about man's best friend, dogs! From sweating through their paws, to why they like to lick our face, and much much more! Come along as we laugh, learn, and leave no questions behind. And of course, a few jokes along the way!

  3. 32

    Ep. 32: Old Quotes That Still Matter

    In this episode of The Father & Son Field Guide, we revisit old quotes and timeless sayings that still carry real meaning today. From hard work and discipline to resilience and purpose, we break down the lessons behind the words and how they apply to everyday life. Sometimes the oldest advice sticks around for a reason. And of course, we enjoy a few jokes and fun facts along the way!

  4. 31

    Ep. 31: What is Grit?

    In this episode, we talk about one of the most important traits you can build in life—grit. What is it really, and why does it matter so much? We share real stories, lessons from the outdoors, and moments where quitting would’ve been easier but sticking it out made all the difference. From hunting to everyday life, we break down how grit is built and why it might matter more than talent. Also, we talk about how important mothers are in our life and how we couldn't survive without them. Happy Mother's Day! 

  5. 30

    Ep. 30: Camp Talk With Uncle Joe

    This week, I sit down with my Uncle Joe at our annual turkey camp in southeast Iowa, a tradition he’s shared with his buddies since the mid-80s. After a morning hunt, we’re back at the cabin—windows open on a perfect spring day—reminiscing under a wall full of deer mounts. Joe is the one who taught me everything I know about hunting, fishing, and the outdoors, and while Walker couldn’t be here this week, I know this is one he’ll appreciate. It’s a laid-back, story-filled episode about a lifetime in the woods, the man who shaped mine, and the traditions I hope to pass on to my kids.

  6. 29

    Ep. 29: Walker Joins The Legion of Turkey Hunters!

    This week on The Father and Son Field Guide, we welcome Walker into the Legion of Turkey Killers as he shares the story of his very first turkey harvest. From the moment it all came together to the emotions that followed, we dive into what it really feels like to take your first animal—excitement, hesitation, nerves, pride, and respect for the hunt. We walk through how it happened, what he was thinking in the moment, and why it’s something he’ll never forget. It’s an honest, real conversation about hunting, growing up, and appreciating the outdoors.And of course… it wouldn’t be our show without a few laughs and some classic jokes mixed in along the way.

  7. 28

    Ep. 28: We're At Turkey Camp!

    Recorded from turkey camp at the farm, this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide brings you right into the heart of the outdoors. We talk all things turkey hunting, celebrate Walker’s very first arrowhead discovery, and share some awesome wild turkey facts you probably didn’t know. It’s a mix of adventure, learning, and a little bit of storytelling you won’t want to miss. As always, a few jokes and laughs along the way!

  8. 27

    Ep. 27: All About Gun Safety!

    In this episode of The Father & Son Field Guide, we dive into an important topic for every family—gun safety. We break down the four basic rules, talk about safe storage at home, and share simple ways kids can stay safe if they ever encounter a firearm. Along the way, we keep it engaging with real-life examples, a fun “butterfly effect” segment, and a reminder that even small choices can make a big difference. Whether you’re a parent, gun owner, or just want to learn, this episode is all about responsibility, awareness, and keeping everyone safe. And as always, a couple jokes along the way!

  9. 26

    Ep. 26: Valentines & Presidents Day Special!

    In this episode of The Father & Son Field Guide, we explore the history behind Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day. From ancient Rome and Saint Valentine to George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. We talk about what these holidays really celebrate: love, leadership, and how we treat the people around us. As always, we mix in some fun facts, big questions, and a few laughs along the way.

  10. 25

    Ep. 25: Inside The Human Body Part 3: The Nervous And Renal Systems!

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we explore how your nervous system sends lightning-fast messages and how your renal system keeps your body clean and balanced by making pee! We also dive into a mind-bending ocean fun fact and wonder whether extinct animals could, or even should, make a comeback. Add in a few jokes and you’ve got an episode full of curiosity and laughs.

  11. 24

    Ep. 24: What Is That Voice Inside Your Head?

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we explore that mysterious voice inside your head (your inner dialogue) and why it can be helpful, confusing, or even challenging at times. We talk about how thoughts work, where that voice comes from, and how to make it more of a field guide than a critic. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that might just get your gears turning. And as always, we will add a fact to the field guide and tell some jokes along the way!

  12. 23

    Ep. 23: The Magic of Thinking Like a Kid!

    Today on the Father and Son, oops I mean Daughter, Field guide Millie takes Walker's place on the mic! We tell some jokes and talk about random things that a 4 year old wants to talk about. Staying on track and following the conversation may be difficult today, but super fun!! Come along and see the world through the eyes of a 4 year old. 

  13. 22

    Ep. 22 Inside the Human Body Part 2: Lungs, Heart, and Digestion!

    Take a trip inside the human body! In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we explore how your heart, lungs, and stomach work together to turn food and air into energy. And as always, some fun facts and jokes along the way. 

  14. 21

    Ep. 21 The Importance of Setting Goals

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we talk about what goals are, why they matter, and how short-term and long-term goals help guide our choices. We discuss what happens when we don’t meet our goals, why failure can be a good teacher, and why making excuses only holds us back. It’s a conversation about growth, effort, and showing up for the people who matter most. As always, we tell some funny jokes and share some fun facts! 

  15. 20

    Ep. 20: Fireside Chat from Deer Camp!

    This week on The Father and Son Field Guide, we’re recording fireside from deer camp at the farm! We chat about how our hunting season has been going so far, dive into how a deer’s senses help them survive, and share some of our favorite moments from camp.

  16. 19

    Ep. 19: Christmas Special!

    What makes Christmas feel like Christmas? Millie Moo kicks off this special holiday episode of The Father and Son Field Guide with her favorite things about Christmas. Also, we explore Christmas traditions, the science of Santa, and the little moments that make the season magical. From math and science to memories and meaning, this is a cozy field guide to the most wonderful time of the year. Merry Christmas! 

  17. 18

    Ep. 18: Inside the Human Body: Skin, Muscles, and Bones!

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we explore two amazing systems: the integumentary system—the skin, hair, and nails that protect us—and the musculoskeletal system that helps us move, jump, and play. We break everything down kid-friendly style with fun analogies, questions, and real-life examples. Plus, we share some wild Iowa fun facts, including the World’s Largest Strawberry and Truck Stop! It’s a mix of learning, curiosity, and father-son conversations you won’t want to miss.

  18. 17

    Ep. 17: Thanksgiving Special!

    This Thanksgiving, we’re slowing things down on The Father and Son Field Guide to focus on what truly matters... gratitude. Together, we explore the real history of Thanksgiving, honor the Pilgrims and Wampanoag people, discover fun facts about deer hunting in Iowa, and reflect on what it means to be thankful for family, the land, and the memories we make together. And as always, we crack a couple jokes for some field guide giggles!

  19. 16

    Ep. 16: The Big Brother Field Guide!

    In this episode, we break down what it really means to be a big brother — from leading by example to showing patience, protecting the family, and being part of a team. Walker shares what he’s learning, Dad shares what he’s noticing, and of course we mix in plenty of jokes and fun facts along the way. Also, Ryan shares his recent successful deer hunt with his bow! A fun, thoughtful guide for any kid growing up in the “big brother” role!

  20. 15

    Ep. 15: Fright Night: Ghosts and Urban Legends!

    Join us for a spooky Halloween edition of The Father and Son Field Guide! In this episode, we explore some bone-chilling urban legends and famous ghost stories from the past that are sure to give you goosebumps. We also share our favorite parts of Halloween night, from trick-or-treating traditions to what costumes we’re planning for this year. Grab your flashlight and let’s go on an adventure… if you dare! 

  21. 14

    Ep. 14: What Makes A Good Friend?

    In this episode, we talk about what it really means to be a good friend. Not just having fun, but standing up for others and doing what’s right. From kindness to courage, we dive into how being a good friend can make the world a better place. As always, we share some jokes and fun facts to add to the field guide!

  22. 13

    Ep. 13: Oh, You're Bored? Good.

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we’re changing things up and recording from the shed, a new spot to spark our imaginations. What starts as a talk about being bored turns into a lesson about why boredom might actually be a good thing. Join us as we explore how slowing down, stepping away from screens, and letting your mind wander can lead to creativity, curiosity, and even bring families closer together. And as always, we have some jokes and fun facts to add to the field guide! 

  23. 12

    Ep. 12: Let's Chew The Fat: What Do These Sayings Mean?

    From ‘wet behind the ears’ to ‘kick the bucket,’ sayings are full of history and surprises. In this episode, we explore the meanings and origins of some old favorites — and why it’s always worth keeping curiosity alive. A little history, a little humor, and a lot of learning.

  24. 11

    Ep. 11: Wants vs. Needs

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we dive into the difference between wants and needs, share some fun facts about black holes, tell some silly jokes, and even chat about Walker's recent trip to the emergency room. A mix of laughs, life lessons, learning, and real-life stories!

  25. 10

    Ep. 10: What is a Bird Journal?

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we open up our bird journal and share the different species we’ve spotted right in our own backyard. From bright goldfinches to the colorful Baltimore oriole, we talk about what makes each bird special, why keeping a journal is fun, and how birdwatching brings us closer together as a family. Join us for curious questions, silly jokes, fun facts, and plenty of bird chatter as we keep our eyes on the skies!

  26. 9

    Introducing Cousins & Curiosity!

    Meet cousins Walker and Shelby as they kick off Cousins and Curiosity! In this first episode, they introduce themselves, share what the podcast is all about, and give you a sneak peek at the big questions and big laughs to come.

  27. 8

    Ep. 9: All About Fishing!

    Join us on this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide as we dive into the world of fishing! Millie stops by for a chat, and we share jokes, fun facts about fishing, and our favorite catches and stories from the water.

  28. 7

    Ep. 8: All About Metal Detecting!

    Join us on this adventure as we chat about metal detecting and share the treasures, surprises, and lessons we discover along the way! Millie joins the show today, bringing her own excitement to the hunt, and of course, we’ve got plenty of jokes and a fun fact to share. From history hidden beneath our feet to the joy of exploring as a family, this episode is all about curiosity, discovery, and making memories outdoors!

  29. 6

    Ep. 7: First Day of School!

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, Walker shares all about his first day of school—what he was excited for, what made him nervous, and how it went! We crack a few jokes, share a cool fun fact, and wrap it all up with a special bonus segment featuring Walker’s sister, Amelia.

  30. 5

    Ep. 6: What Makes a Good Leader?

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we dive into the question: What makes a good leader? Ryan and Walker talk about qualities like honesty, courage, and helping others, and what it really means to “lead from the front.” We share examples of leadership from everyday life, from school to sports to family, and even touch on the leadership of George Washington in our fun fact segment. Of course, we keep things light with plenty of laughs in Field Guide Giggles!

  31. 4

    Ep. 5: Would You Rather?: Survival Edition

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we put our survival skills — and our imaginations — to the test with a game of “Would You Rather?: Survival Edition.” From choosing between tricky real-life wilderness scenarios to laughing through some totally ridiculous ones, Ryan and Walker explore what they’d do if things got tough (or just plain silly) out in the wild. It’s part problem-solving, part goofiness, and all fun.

  32. 3

    Ep. 4: What is Sportsmanship?

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we dive into the meaning of sportsmanship.  From staying respectful on the field to learning how to lose with grace and win with humility. Ryan shares lessons from coaching and parenting, while Walker talks about how he shows good sportsmanship in life and sports. We talk about what it means to be coachable, how to handle bad calls from referees, and why having fun should always come first.Plus, don't miss Field Guide Giggles, our fun fact about Abraham Lincoln...

  33. 2

    Ep. 3: Is Hunting Just About the Kill?

    In this powerful and honest episode, we explore the responsibility that comes with hunting. Walker shares a moment when he had a wild turkey in his sights and almost pulled the trigger. We talk through what he was feeling in that exact moment.Together, we dive into what it means to harvest an animal with respect, how much work goes into the preparation, and why conservation is such a big part of responsible hunting. From food plots to trail cams and long mornings in the woods, we reflect on how hunting can teach patience, gratitude, and care.As always, there’s a joke to make you laugh and a wild animal fact that might just surprise you.

  34. 1

    Ep. 2: What does it mean to be brave?

    In this episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, we’re talking all about bravery. What it looks like, when we need it, and how it shows up in big and small ways.Dad shares a powerful story about helping two injured teammates during a deployment, and Walker talks about the time he stood up for a kid being bullied at school. We also explore everyday heroes like firefighters, soldiers, medical professionals, and police officers. We even talk about some brave people from 9/11.As always, we’ve got plenty of laughs during Field Guide Giggles, and today’s Fun Fact will fire you up 🔥 (hint: it’s about firefighters!).Whether you're a kid, a parent, or just someone who wants to grow a little stronger, this episode reminds us that bravery comes in all shapes and sizes. 

  35. 0

    Ep. 1: It's Good To Do Hard Things!

    Why do people sometimes quit when things get hard?In this very first episode of The Father and Son Field Guide, Walker and his dad, Ryan, explore the big question: Why do people sometimes quit when things get tough?Together, they share personal stories about hard moments, talk about what makes us want to give up, and discover why it’s good to do hard things.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The Father and Son Field Guide is a weekly podcast hosted by 8-year-old Walker and his dad, Ryan. Together, they explore big questions, small lessons, and everything in between—from “Why do people quit when things get hard?” to “What does it mean to be brave?”Each 40–45 minute episode is packed with real conversations, laughter, kid-approved jokes, surprising fun facts, and thoughtful reflections on growing up, learning together, and being human. It’s a podcast for curious kids, caring parents, and anyone who loves honest questions and meaningful moments shared around the metaphorical campfire.Whether you’re on a car ride, winding down for bed, or just looking for something uplifting and real, grab your field guide and come along. There’s always something new to discover.

HOSTED BY

Ryan and Walker

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Father & Son Field Guide have?

The Father & Son Field Guide currently has 35 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Father & Son Field Guide about?

The Father and Son Field Guide is a weekly podcast hosted by 8-year-old Walker and his dad, Ryan. Together, they explore big questions, small lessons, and everything in between—from “Why do people quit when things get hard?” to “What does it mean to be brave?”Each 40–45 minute episode is packed...

How often does The Father & Son Field Guide release new episodes?

The Father & Son Field Guide has 35 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Father & Son Field Guide?

You can listen to The Father & Son Field Guide on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Father & Son Field Guide?

The Father & Son Field Guide is created and hosted by Ryan and Walker.
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