On the Real with Ubuntu Fly Anglers

In this episode, Dudley Edmondson joins the show to share his powerful journey from growing up in the urban core of Columbus, Ohio to building a life centered around nature in Duluth, Minnesota. He reflects on how fishing local rivers as a kid and escaping into the natural world helped him navigate personal challenges, ultimately shaping his path as a wildlife photographer, filmmaker, and author. Along the way, Dudley recounts unforgettable experiences—from photographing birds across the country to surviving a plane crash in the Arctic while filming a documentary. The conversation goes deeper into his mission to expand representation in outdoor spaces, emphasizing that people cannot be expected to protect environments they’ve never had the chance to truly experience. He speaks candidly about the psychological and real barriers faced by people of color in the outdoors, challenging ideas like “inclusion” and “tolerance” in favor of true collaboration and belonging. Grounded in his love for fly fishing, storytelling, and community, Dudley offers a perspective that is both thought-provoking and deeply rooted in purpose. Episode Notes -  Dudley Edmondson Books Instagram Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this episode of On The Reel, Kaith Palmaria shares her journey into fly fishing, a passion she discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic while working as a nurse. What began as a way to cope with stress quickly evolved into a life-changing pursuit, leading her from her home waters on Alberta’s Bow River to unforgettable fishing experiences around the world, including hosting trips in Argentina targeting golden dorado and other species. Kaith reflects on her love of spey casting for steelhead, the meditative and grounding nature of being on the water, and the powerful sense of community that fly fishing fosters. She also speaks candidly about the barriers to entry in the sport and her hope for a more inclusive and accessible future, where more people, regardless of background, can experience the joy, purpose, and connection that fly fishing has brought to her life. Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/roneykaith/ Calgary Women Fly Fishers - https://www.instagram.com/calgarywomenflyfishers/ Out Fly Fishing Fly Shop - https://www.calgarysflyshop.com/ Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.    

Dr. Yolanda Edwards, founder of Her Waters, Inc. and retired Army veteran, sits down with Ubuntu Fly Anglers podcast manager Alisha Bartlett for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about fishing, healing, and representation. Dr. Edwards learned to fish from her mother, who learned from her grandmother, a three-generation legacy of anglers. Yolanda’s work is not new. She founded the nonprofit Remain Hooked Outdoors in 2017 and, in January 2026, intentionally renamed the organization to Her Waters, Inc., a change that reflected deeper clarity and alignment with her mission. Her Waters (Healing, Empowerment, and Representation) exists to show female veterans, Black women, and girls that fly fishing is for them, too. Connect with Yolanda - Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mz.hookedonthefly/ Her Waters Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/herwatersinc/ Website - https://herwaters.org/ Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, provide financial assistance, and create spaces where all anglers can thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

After climbing the corporate ladder and building a successful career, Ashley White found his world unraveling after a traumatic medical crisis nearly took his wife’s life. In this deeply personal episode, Ash, now known as The Gentleman Lumberjack, opens up about his battle with anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts, and how traditional systems of support fell short. It was not until he began meeting his therapist outdoors in everyday parks and natural spaces that healing truly began. Fly fishing soon followed, becoming a practice of mindfulness, presence, and peace. Today, Ash guides others into the backcountry and onto the water, helping them reconnect with themselves through nature. His story is a powerful reminder of the healing that can happen when we finally step outside. Episode Notes- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_gentleman_lumberjack Email - [email protected] Business - https://www.thefishinggent.com Organization -The Gentleman Lumberjack Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this episode of On the Real, host Bob Bartlett welcomes Dr. Loleta Robinson, a passionate fly angler, world traveler, and member of the Ubuntu Fly Anglers leadership team. Loleta shares her journey into fly fishing as a Black woman, the importance of finding community in the outdoors, and the power of embracing imperfection on and off the water. Their conversation is a heartfelt reflection on belonging, growth, and the joy of casting lines with purpose. Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/doclola/   Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Bob Bartlett sits down with Erica Nelson, fly fishing guide, social justice advocate, and founder of REAL Consulting. For an inspiring conversation about identity, community, and the transformative power of fly fishing. Erica shares her unique journey from studying narcissism in online dating profiles to becoming one of the most recognized and respected voices in the fly fishing world. Through storytelling and laughter, Erica reflects on her early days navigating the outdoor industry, the systemic barriers she's faced, and the meaningful connections she’s built with anglers across the country. She also dives into her work with Wanderland Outdoors, a first-of-its-kind outfitter led by and for historically excluded identities, and her ongoing mission to make the outdoors more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Whether you're an angler, a change-maker, or just someone looking for a genuine and inspiring story, this episode delivers real talk, real passion, and a refreshing perspective on what it means to show up fully—on the water and in life. Episode Notes- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/awkwardangler Facebook - facebook.com/ericanelson25 Email - [email protected]@gmail.com Business - https://www.awkwardangler.com/ Organization - https://www.awkwardangler.com/podcast Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this heartfelt episode of On the Reel, host Bob Bartlett speaks with Angel Massie, co-founder of Wanderland Outdoors, about building a more inclusive and healing outdoor experience for Black and Brown communities. Angel shares how her childhood by the Chesapeake Bay, her career in journalism, and her training in mindfulness all led to creating a nature-based guiding business alongside her husband, former NFL player Bobby Massie. From guided fly fishing to meditative hikes to open-flame meals under Colorado skies, Wanderland Outdoors is redefining what it means to belong in nature. Angel opens up about the power of intentionality, the importance of representation, and the joy of seeing community gather on the land. Whether you're an avid angler or new to the outdoors, this conversation is a reminder that nature is a place for everyone—and healing is possible when we show up as our full selves. You can also watch Angel as a Housewife on this season of the Real Housewives of Potomac. Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelera Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WanderlandOutdoors Email - [email protected] Business - https://wanderlandoutdoors.com Organization - Wanderland Outdoors  https://wanderlandoutdoors.com Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this episode of On the Reel, host Bob Bartlett welcomes fly fishing guide, mentor, and community advocate Scot Simmons for a candid conversation about living with purpose both on and off the water. From his early days fishing Minnesota lakes with his father to guiding trips and mentoring youth today, Scot reflects on how fly fishing became a source of healing, identity, and joy. He shares how observing the life cycle of bugs, like the caddisfly, inspired a deeper understanding of intention and impact, drawing parallels between nature's rhythms and his own personal growth. Scot also opens up about fatherhood, Black representation in outdoor spaces, and the importance of building inclusive communities like Ubuntu Fly Anglers. Whether he's wading a cold-water stream or helping others find their way to the river, Scot is committed to living a life that matters—and lifting others as he goes. This is more than a story about fishing; it’s about belonging, legacy, and the power of showing up fully in your own skin. On August 14, 2025, the world lost Scot after a courageous battle with cancer. The Ubuntu family and the fly fishing community will deeply miss him. Scot is survived by his wife, Christy Simmons, and their son, Cooper. To support his family, please consider donating to his GoFundMe at [link in bio] or visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-scot-simmons-fight-against-cancer Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tribe.simmons Obituary- https://www.hofffuneral.com/obituaries/scot-simmons Go Fund Me- https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-scot-simmons-fight-against-cancer  Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

Sometimes a funny mishap is the doorway to something bigger. In this episode of On The Real, host Bob Bartlett talks with Angelica Talan, a longtime DC resident, content creator, and mom whose fly fishing story began when her daughter asked her to take her to the water. What followed was a smelly weekend of catfish forgotten in a car trunk, a leap into fly fishing, and eventually a new role as a brand ambassador and visible presence for women of color in the sport. Angelica reflects on motherhood, identity, and the power of being seen, reminding us that when our kids ask us to join them in something new, saying “yes” can change everything. Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelicatalan/ United Women on the Fly - https://www.instagram.com/unitedwomenonthefly/ Dun Magazine - Introduce Your Kids to Fly Fishing --------------- Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

In this powerful episode of On The Real, host Bob Bartlett sits down with Pacific Northwest fishing guide and filmmaker Captain Lael Johnson. Lael shares his journey from growing up in Topeka, Kansas to becoming a respected steelhead and salmon guide on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. He opens up about the struggles he faced along the way, the leap of faith it took to follow his passion, and the profound role fishing has played in his mental health and personal growth. Lael also talks about launching the FYSH Foundation—For Your Sanity & Happiness—and how it’s creating inclusive outdoor spaces for people of all backgrounds. The conversation dives into the making of his recent film Visibility, the importance of representation in fly fishing, and what it really means to live a purpose-driven life on and off the water. This is a raw, honest, and uplifting episode you won’t want to miss. Episode Notes -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/laelpauljohnson/ Website - https://flygyde.com/ Fysh Foundation - https://www.fyshfoundation.org/ Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead. Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.    

In this episode, we sit down with Lino Jubilado, an angler whose story flows from the streets of East Los Angeles to the currents of the LA River. Lino reflects on how fishing first took root in his childhood, grew through competitive bass tournaments, and eventually led him to the world of fly fishing, casting for carp in the heart of the city. Along the way, he shares what it means to find peace, belonging, and community in an urban landscape, while breaking barriers and inspiring others to connect with the water right where they are.

In this episode of On The Real, host Bob Bartlett sits down with Carl Crawford, co-founder of the Ubuntu Fly Anglers Network, to reflect on the journey through 2024 so far. From navigating challenges to celebrating milestones, this conversation explores key lessons learned and the vision shaping the future. Grounded in community, connection, and the spirit of Ubuntu, Carl offers a candid look at where the organization stands today and what lies ahead on the horizon.

In this inspiring episode of On the Real, host Bob Bartlett of the Ubuntu Anglers Network sits down with Analiza del Rosario, a seasoned fly angler, marketing professional, and community advocate, to explore her journey from growing up on a rice farm in the Philippines to becoming a passionate leader in the fly fishing world. Analiza shares how a work assignment unexpectedly launched her into fly fishing, and how it quickly became a central part of her life. She reflects on the challenges of entering the sport as a woman of color, the importance of building inclusive spaces through the Pasadena Casting Club, and her mission to welcome more women and people of color into the outdoors.  With stories ranging from catching wild trout in California’s San Gabriel River to landing redfish in New Orleans and dorado in Baja, Analiza brings warmth, humor, and wisdom to the conversation. Her mantra,  “No Bitching, Just Fishing”, is more than a catchphrase; it’s a call to keep joy and connection at the heart of the fly fishing experience.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Mario G., founder of Taco Fly Co., fly fishing guide, culture shifter, industry disruptor, and proud ambassador for Brown Folks Fishing. Mario opens up about his upbringing as a Mexican American in San Jose, how skateboarding and fishing shaped his life, and why inclusion isn’t a strategy, it’s just who he is. From the banks of the Trinity River to Baja’s roosterfish runs, Mario has created more than a brand—he’s built a movement where tacos, special beers, and belonging collide. We talk about why representation matters, what it means to show up in spaces that weren’t built for us, and how he's helping others feel safe and seen on the river. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t fit in or didn’t belong, this episode is for you. Mario reminds us that sometimes the most revolutionary thing you can do is just be yourself.

Al is a passionate fly angler whose unexpected journey into the sport has taken him from urban Indiana waters to international fishing destinations. More than just a fishing story, Al’s path reflects personal transformation, a deepening connection to nature, and a commitment to uplifting visibility for anglers of color through the Ubuntu Fly Anglers network.

On this episode of On the Real, Bob Bartlett welcomes Emma Brown, whose life has been shaped by the rugged beauty of Colorado’s Front Range. Growing up on a ranch northwest of Denver, Emma learned the demands of ranch work early, surrounded by horses, cattle, and the rhythms of rural life. Her youth was spent riding trails and fishing for brook trout in the high country, sparking a deep connection to the land. That passion eventually grew into a successful fly-fishing guide service and ranch business. Emma shares her journey of building a life outdoors, her lessons, and the changes she hopes to see in how the outdoor world includes and represents women of color.

In this episode of On the Real, host Bob Bartlett is joined by fly fishing legend Joyce Shepherd, a trailblazer who has spent decades breaking down barriers in the sport and creating space for women and people of color. Joyce, originally from Snow Hill, North Carolina, reflects on her journey from farming to becoming a passionate fly angler. While she came to fishing later in life, Joyce's connection to the water grew quickly, leading her to teach and mentor others in the fly fishing community. From her early days fishing on the Chesapeake Bay piers to her transformative experiences with mentors like Lefty Kreh and Joan Wulff, Joyce shares stories of personal growth, challenges, and triumphs. Joyce has been a powerful advocate for environmental conservation and inclusion. She highlights the importance of mentorship, representation, and how fishing can bring healing to both individuals and communities. Joyce also touches on her work with veterans, youth, and women facing cancer, and discusses her passion for teaching the next generation of anglers and stewards of the environment. Join Bob and Joyce as they dive into her extraordinary story, the importance of making fly fishing a more inclusive space, and the joy of teaching others to connect with nature through this beautiful and complex sport. Catch the full conversation on YouTube, where you can also see a humorous picture of Joyce in a kayak trying to avoid disaster. Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook at Ubuntu Fly Anglers or reach out directly via email at [email protected] for more info, questions, or comments.

In this inaugural episode, Nicole Tracey Lewis, a Black woman and proud Montreal native, shares her coming-of-age journey as a passionate fly angler and fly tier. Now based in Ottawa, Nicole has spent over a decade immersed in the world of fly fishing. Whether she’s fishing through the ice or swinging flies for steelhead with her two-handed rod, her love for the water runs deep. Nicole recounts the unforgettable moment of landing her very first steelhead on the swing, a milestone that marked a turning point in her angling journey. She also reflects on the reality that, in more than ten years of fly fishing, she has never shared the water with another Black angler. Her story underscores the importance of representation and highlights the vital role of the Ubuntu Fly Anglers Network in creating space and visibility for Black and Brown anglers in a sport and industry that remains overwhelmingly white. ---------- On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs like All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing world. iFishiBelong believes true integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.