PODCAST · education
The High Ground Podcast
by James Brendlinger
The High Ground Podcast is a hunting podcast focused on earning the advantage long before the shot. It's about preparation, discipline, and the mindset required to consistently put yourself in the right position when it matters most. Each episode dives into real hunting experiences, lessons learned in the field, and the strategies that help hunters read terrain, understand animal behavior, and adapt under pressure. From scouting and setup decisions tp patience and mental toughness, The High Ground is about achieving more than success: it's about earning it. Whether you're chasing elk, mule deer, or simply chasing improvement, The High Ground challenges hunters to elevate their approach in the field and in life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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19
THGP #19 Everything Turkey
In this episode of The High Ground Podcast, the crew gives an early to mid-season turkey hunting update, breaking down recent experiences in the field and what they’re learning as the season progresses. They dive into real encounters with birds, including working ridge runners, adjusting setups, and dealing with situations where expectations didn’t match reality.The conversation focuses heavily on turkey hunting tactics, including calling sequences, when to stay aggressive versus going quiet, and how to read a tom’s response to know when he’s committing. They also discuss the pros and cons of using decoys, proper setup distances, and how positioning can influence whether a bird comes into range.They break down turkey behavior, explaining how birds move, respond to calls, and often take the path of least resistance — highlighting the importance of understanding terrain, obstacles, and roosting areas when planning setups. Practical advice is shared on locating birds through scouting, listening for gobbles, and getting into position before first light.Overall, this episode is a mix of real hunt experience, tactical breakdown, and lessons learned in the field, giving listeners a raw and honest look at what it takes to adapt and improve during turkey season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #18 Opening Morning Recap and Stewardship
In this episode of The High Ground Podcast, the crew recaps an opening day spring turkey hunt in Utah, breaking down the experience from start to finish. Skeeter walks through the early morning grind — from a late night and little sleep to getting into the unit before sunrise — and the strategy behind locating birds using calls and prior scouting.They discuss the importance of preseason scouting, understanding pressure, and getting into areas with good potential, especially on limited entry hunts where tag numbers are low and opportunities can be higher. The conversation highlights the realities of hunting — adapting when birds aren’t responding, covering ground, and staying persistent even when things don’t go as planned.The episode also touches on the mindset behind hunting, including preparation, discipline, and making the most of opportunities when they come. They wrap up with thoughts on stewardship, emphasizing respect for the land, wildlife, and the responsibility hunters have to take care of the places they spend time in.Overall, this episode is a mix of real hunt experience, practical strategy, and mindset — giving listeners a look at what goes into a successful day in the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #17 W/ Morgan Hyatt Faith and Hunting
Episode 17 is a solo episode where Morgan shares a personal testimony of Jesus Christ and the meaning of His resurrection. He reflects on faith, effort, and trusting the process—even when it feels like nothing is working.The episode then shifts into spring turkey hunting, tying lessons from the mountains back to faith—reminding listeners that persistence, patience, and belief always pay off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #16 Everything Shed Hunting
In this episode of The High Ground Podcast, we break down everything you need to know to be successful during shed season. We cover the essential gear to have on the mountain, along with the tactics and strategies that help us consistently find sheds.We dive into where to look, how to read terrain, and how to identify high-probability areas based on animal behavior. From scouting techniques to covering ground efficiently, we share what’s worked for us and the lessons we’ve learned along the way.Whether you’re new to shed hunting or looking to level up, this episode gives you practical insight on how to approach the mountain with purpose and increase your chances of success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #15 Iron Sharpens Iron
In this episode of The High Ground Podcast, the crew dives into the idea of “iron sharpens iron” and the impact that the people you surround yourself with have on your life. They discuss how your inner circle can either elevate you or hold you back, emphasizing the importance of choosing friends who push you to grow, hold you accountable, and genuinely want to see you succeed. The conversation explores what true brotherhood looks like — not just having people to spend time with, but having relationships built on honesty, discipline, and mutual growth. The hosts share personal experiences about stepping away from negative influences, dealing with naysayers, and choosing to lead rather than follow, even when it’s uncomfortable. They also highlight the balance between building a strong inner circle and still showing love and respect to others, without letting outside influences pull you away from your values. A key theme throughout the episode is that real growth comes through pressure, discomfort, and accountability, much like iron being sharpened — and that strong friendships should challenge you, not just comfort you. Ultimately, this episode is about taking a hard look at your relationships, asking yourself what kind of friend you are, and intentionally building a circle that pushes everyone involved to become better in life, work, and personal growth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #14 W/ John Taylor
In this episode of the High Ground Podcast, we sit down with Army veteran John Taylor to talk about the healing power of the outdoors. John shares powerful stories about surviving a heart attack during a remote hunt, helping veterans through organizations like Hunts for the Brave, and the brotherhood that forms through hunting and fishing together. This conversation is a reminder that the outdoors can bring purpose, healing, and connection to those who need it most. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #13 Hunt Planning
In this episode, we break down the full process of planning a successful hunting season. From choosing units and scouting terrain to physical preparation, gear planning, and backcountry logistics, we cover the steps that separate prepared hunters from the rest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #12 W/ Dr. Preston Ward
On this episode of The High Ground Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Preston Ward to talk about what it really takes to stay strong in the mountains. Dr. Ward shares his backstory — what led him into physical therapy and why he became passionate about helping hunters not just recover from injury, but stay in the backcountry for the long haul.We dive into the most common injuries hunters face, from knee and ankle issues to lower back strain, and break down practical ways to mitigate risk before the season even starts. This conversation isn’t just about rehab — it’s about preparation, longevity, and keeping yourself capable year after year.We also discuss the Colorado Summit, the mission behind it, and why building community around strength, education, and brotherhood matters for today’s hunters.If you care about staying in the mountains longer, hunting harder, and taking ownership of your physical durability, this episode is a must-listen. MTN Physio (Official Site):https://mtnphysio.comFacebook (MTN Physio):https://www.facebook.com/mtnphysio Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #11 Overcoming Adversity
Adversity doesn’t show up the same way for everyone. In this episode, we talk about what it really means to face challenges head on — whether that’s on a tough hunt or in your personal life. We discuss how small wins create momentum, why organization reduces stress, and how mindset can make or break your season. Most importantly, we talk about brotherhood — and how having solid people in your corner changes everything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #10 W/ Hunts For The Brave
In this episode, Skeeter sits down with special guests Justin Oliver and Jon Leonard, Board Members of Hunts For the Brave. Together, they share powerful stories about helping veterans reconnect with purpose and healing through time in the mountains. Justin and Jon discuss the mission behind Hunts For the Brave, the impact of getting veterans outdoors, and how these experiences help individuals overcome personal challenges they may be facing. Skeeter also opens up about how Hunts For the Brave has personally impacted his life and journey.To learn more or get involved:Justin Oliver – [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #9 Fireside Stories
On this episode, we’re kicking back and diving into stories, laughs, and the unforgettable moments from seasons past. From hard lessons learned the long way to advice we wish we had early on, we break down the experiences that shaped us both in the field and in life. We talk about the gear and essentials we never leave behind, the mistakes that made us better, and the moments that remind us why we keep coming back year after year. If you’re here for real stories, good times, and lessons earned the hard way—this one’s for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #8 Staying Busy During the Off Season
As January comes to a close, we sit down to talk about the off-season—what it means when the tags are filled, the seasons end, and the mountains go quiet. We cover how we stay mentally and physically sharp during the winter months, the role fitness plays in being better hunters, and how to avoid cabin fever when the woods feel far away. Along the way, we share a few hard-earned lessons, laugh through some unforgettable moments from the season, and reflect on why pushing through exhaustion is always worth it. No matter the time of year, it’s about staying ready and finding your high ground. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #7 W/ Matthew Cooley
On this episode, we introduce our good friend Matthew Cooley. Matthew hunted with us in Idaho this past year and shares his perspective on how the season played out. We’re excited to have him on the show as he breaks down the key differences between hunting in the Midwest versus the West, and what stood out to him during his time in Idaho. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #6 Archery Pre-Season Set up
On today’s episode of The High Ground Podcast, we break down archery setups and the importance of confidence in your gear. Whatever bow, arrow, or release you take into the field, it should be something you trust completely. Now is the time to experiment—fine-tune your setup, make adjustments, and try new options before the season arrives. We also discuss why we choose the equipment we do and how those choices have shaped our hunting style and decisions in the field. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #5 W/ Porter Cooley
Welcome, Porter Cooley to The High Ground Podcast. On todays episode we took the time to get to know and introduce Porter to the people of the outdoor and hunting community! Porter has over forty years of elk hunting experience, if that's calling or chasing them himself. He is a legend in the elk woods and has knowledge no one else has. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #4 Pre-Season Prep
HeightsUp at the Canyon's Crest, where the matchless eagles soar and the wind speeds by with a high shrill cry, bending the treetops oar will be found life's zest with the tingling thrill of the pungent hill answering the ceaseless quest.But only those who dare may breathe clean air up there out on the mountain steep, where the wind scarred Cedars grow, where no sound is heard but the stir of a bird answering the mate below. There's a silence deep.Away from the roar of the Canyon's floor, where the soul may vigils keep, but only those who care learn secrets up up there, up on the summit line, where the ponderous silence lies, where the Earth's great face reaches up through the space.Piercing the wise old skies, there's a quiet shrine there away from strife, and alone with life only perceives the plan divine, but earthly draws for for where, if truth you'd share up there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #3 Idaho Recap
Welcome back to another episode of The High Ground Podcast! On todays podcast we will brief our time chasing bugling bulls in the back country of Idaho, and welcome Morgan Hyatt as a partner of The High Ground. We will be sharing stories and insights to an epic time in Idaho. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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THGP #2 W/ Morgan Hyatt
Welcome to episode 2, where we dive in and get to know Morgan Hyatt a member of The High Ground Podcast. On this podcast we will get to know a little about him, his time in the elk woods this year and how he became addicted to the outdoors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The High Ground Podcast
In todays podcast we introduce Taylor Case, who is one of the founding members of "The High Ground". He gives a brief introduction of himself and how he and Skeeter forged an unbreakable bond that ultimately led to what is now known as "The High Ground". This is where comfort goes to die. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The High Ground Podcast is a hunting podcast focused on earning the advantage long before the shot. It's about preparation, discipline, and the mindset required to consistently put yourself in the right position when it matters most. Each episode dives into real hunting experiences, lessons learned in the field, and the strategies that help hunters read terrain, understand animal behavior, and adapt under pressure. From scouting and setup decisions tp patience and mental toughness, The High Ground is about achieving more than success: it's about earning it. Whether you're chasing elk, mule deer, or simply chasing improvement, The High Ground challenges hunters to elevate their approach in the field and in life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
HOSTED BY
James Brendlinger
CATEGORIES
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