Rick Murphy’s impact on the world of fishing runs deep. Many know him from his television shows—Sportsman’s Adventures, Florida Insider Fishing Report, and Texas Insider Fishing Report—popular across the Southeast. But his true legacy is built on the water—as a Florida fishing guide and a relentless tournament competitor.

Murphy is widely regarded as a tarpon fishing wizard, having won all four major tarpon tournaments. Yet what sets him apart isn’t just mastery of one species—it’s his rare versatility. He’s just as formidable offshore, with multiple sailfish tournament victories to his name. By his own count, he’s claimed around 150 combined inshore and offshore wins.

Still, his most remarkable achievement isn’t a trophy-- It's survival.

In 2022, Murphy and his pilot were flying a single-engine plane to the Bahamas when they ran out of fuel and crashed into the ocean. He suffered severe injuries, including multiple fractures to his face and back. Against the odds, he stayed alive by clinging to a cushion until a passing boat rescued them.

That moment revealed something deeper than skill or success—it showed an unbreakable will. We’ve been pursuing his story for years, and now we’ve finally captured the most compelling chapters of Rick Murphy’s life.

<description>Rick Murphy’s impact on the world of fishing runs deep. Many know him from his television shows—Sportsman’s Adventures, Florida Insider Fishing Report, and Texas Insider Fishing Report—popular across the Southeast. But his true legacy is built on the water—as a Florida fishing guide and a relentless tournament competitor.

Murphy is widely regarded as a tarpon fishing wizard, having won all four major tarpon tournaments. Yet what sets him apart isn’t just mastery of one species—it’s his rare versatility. He’s just as formidable offshore, with multiple sailfish tournament victories to his name. By his own count, he’s claimed around 150 combined inshore and offshore wins.

Still, his most remarkable achievement isn’t a trophy-- It's survival.

In 2022, Murphy and his pilot were flying a single-engine plane to the Bahamas when they ran out of fuel and crashed into the ocean. He suffered severe injuries, including multiple fractures to his face and back. Against the odds, he stayed alive by clinging to a cushion until a passing boat rescued them.

That moment revealed something deeper than skill or success—it showed an unbreakable will. We’ve been pursuing his story for years, and now we’ve finally captured the most compelling chapters of Rick Murphy’s life.</description>

In this episode, Rick talks about his early childhood, his larger than life mentors, tarpon tournaments, the redfish tour, and the plane crash that almost cost him his life....

Rick Murphy’s impact on the world of fishing runs deep. Many know him from his television shows—Sportsman’s Adventures, Florida Insider Fishing Report, and Texas Insider Fishing Report—popular across the Southeast. But his true legacy is built on the water—as a Florida fishing guide and a relentless tournament competitor.

Murphy is widely regarded as a tarpon fishing wizard, having won all four major tarpon tournaments. Yet what sets him apart isn’t just mastery of one species—it’s his rare versatility. He’s just as formidable offshore, with multiple sailfish tournament victories to his name. By his own count, he’s claimed around 150 combined inshore and offshore wins.

Still, his most remarkable achievement isn’t a trophy-- It's survival.

In 2022, Murphy and his pilot were flying a single-engine plane to the Bahamas when they ran out of fuel and crashed into the ocean. He suffered severe injuries, including multiple fractures to his face and back. Against the odds, he stayed alive by clinging to a cushion until a passing boat rescued them.

That moment revealed something deeper than skill or success—it showed an unbreakable will. We’ve been pursuing his story for years, and now we’ve finally captured the most compelling chapters of Rick Murphy’s life.

Episode 163: Capt. Rick Murphy - Master Angler, Relentless Survivor 

Anthony Hsieh’s success in the mortgage industry is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a simple application for a loan officer position turned into ownership of the very company he once hoped to join. From there, he built Loans Direct, selling it to E*TRADE in 2001. He followed that with HomeLoanCenter.com, which he sold to LendingTree in 2004. Then came his biggest venture—LoanDepot, founded in 2010—where he served as CEO and Chairman until 2022, before returning last year to once again lead the company as Permanent CEO and Chairman.

But long before the boardrooms and billion-dollar deals, Hsieh’s focus was already undeniable. At just eight years old, he was helping his family work toward owning their own business. At the same time, he was a young fisherman with big dreams.

Growing up in Newport Beach, California, Catalina Island wasn’t just a destination—it was a challenge waiting across open water. He cut his teeth on the Venice Pier catching thresher sharks, sold bait, worked as a deckhand on day boats, and ran down the Baja Peninsula towing a Boston Whaler, fishing all the way to Cabo. Alongside friends, he chased finning swordfish with harpoons. There was nothing he wouldn’t do in pursuit of fishing.

That relentless drive carried over into big-game sportfishing, where he has become one of the most influential figures in the marlin world. Few—if any—have pursued giant marlin with the same intensity of body, spirit, and resources. His obsession with catching “grander” marlin is unmatched. Just as impressive is his commitment to conservation.

Now four years into their global “World Tour,” which began in June 2022, Hsieh and his team operate two mothership programs in different regions, maximizing their ability to stay on the fish. The results are staggering: 445 blue and black marlin caught, including 185 over 500 pounds and 32 over 900 pounds (estimating). They’ve also deployed 50 satellite tags as part of their commitment to helping the IGFA study and protect billfish populations.

Their tournament success is just as remarkable, including over $8 million in winnings at Cabo’s legendary Black &amp; Blue Marlin Tournament.

But as Hsieh himself might tell you—tournaments can sometimes get in the way of chasing thousand-pound fish.

On today’s podcast, we dive into the mindset of one of the most driven and dedicated marlin fishermen to ever troll the open ocean.

<description>Anthony Hsieh’s success in the mortgage industry is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a simple application for a loan officer position turned into ownership of the very company he once hoped to join. From there, he built Loans Direct, selling it to E*TRADE in 2001. He followed that with HomeLoanCenter.com, which he sold to LendingTree in 2004. Then came his biggest venture—LoanDepot, founded in 2010—where he served as CEO and Chairman until 2022, before returning last year to once again lead the company as Permanent CEO and Chairman.

But long before the boardrooms and billion-dollar deals, Hsieh’s focus was already undeniable. At just eight years old, he was helping his family work toward owning their own business. At the same time, he was a young fisherman with big dreams.

Growing up in Newport Beach, California, Catalina Island wasn’t just a destination—it was a challenge waiting across open water. He cut his teeth on the Venice Pier catching thresher sharks, sold bait, worked as a deckhand on day boats, and ran down the Baja Peninsula towing a Boston Whaler, fishing all the way to Cabo. Alongside friends, he chased finning swordfish with harpoons. There was nothing he wouldn’t do in pursuit of fishing.

That relentless drive carried over into big-game sportfishing, where he has become one of the most influential figures in the marlin world. Few—if any—have pursued giant marlin with the same intensity of body, spirit, and resources. His obsession with catching “grander” marlin is unmatched. Just as impressive is his commitment to conservation.

Now four years into their global “World Tour,” which began in June 2022, Hsieh and his team operate two mothership programs in different regions, maximizing their ability to stay on the fish. The results are staggering: 445 blue and black marlin caught, including 185 over 500 pounds and 32 over 900 pounds (estimating). They’ve also deployed 50 satellite tags as part of their commitment to helping the IGFA study and protect billfish populations.

Their tournament success is just as remarkable, including over $8 million in winnings at Cabo’s legendary Black &amp; Blue Marlin Tournament.

But as Hsieh himself might tell you—tournaments can sometimes get in the way of chasing thousand-pound fish.

On today’s podcast, we dive into the mindset of one of the most driven and dedicated marlin fishermen to ever troll the open ocean.</description>

In this episode, Anthony reflects on his fourth year on the world tour, shares his ambition to catch a 1,300-pound marlin, and discusses what he and his team have learned from deploying over 50 satellite tags in marlin.

Anthony Hsieh’s success in the mortgage industry is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a simple application for a loan officer position turned into ownership of the very company he once hoped to join. From there, he built Loans Direct, selling it to E*TRADE in 2001. He followed that with HomeLoanCenter.com, which he sold to LendingTree in 2004. Then came his biggest venture—LoanDepot, founded in 2010—where he served as CEO and Chairman until 2022, before returning last year to once again lead the company as Permanent CEO and Chairman.

But long before the boardrooms and billion-dollar deals, Hsieh’s focus was already undeniable. At just eight years old, he was helping his family work toward owning their own business. At the same time, he was a young fisherman with big dreams.

Growing up in Newport Beach, California, Catalina Island wasn’t just a destination—it was a challenge waiting across open water. He cut his teeth on the Venice Pier catching thresher sharks, sold bait, worked as a deckhand on day boats, and ran down the Baja Peninsula towing a Boston Whaler, fishing all the way to Cabo. Alongside friends, he chased finning swordfish with harpoons. There was nothing he wouldn’t do in pursuit of fishing.

That relentless drive carried over into big-game sportfishing, where he has become one of the most influential figures in the marlin world. Few—if any—have pursued giant marlin with the same intensity of body, spirit, and resources. His obsession with catching “grander” marlin is unmatched. Just as impressive is his commitment to conservation.

Now four years into their global “World Tour,” which began in June 2022, Hsieh and his team operate two mothership programs in different regions, maximizing their ability to stay on the fish. The results are staggering: 445 blue and black marlin caught, including 185 over 500 pounds and 32 over 900 pounds (estimating). They’ve also deployed 50 satellite tags as part of their commitment to helping the IGFA study and protect billfish populations.

Their tournament success is just as remarkable, including over $8 million in winnings at Cabo’s legendary Black & Blue Marlin Tournament.

But as Hsieh himself might tell you—tournaments can sometimes get in the way of chasing thousand-pound fish.

On today’s podcast, we dive into the mindset of one of the most driven and dedicated marlin fishermen to ever troll the open ocean.

Episode 162: Anthony Hsieh - Bad Company Fishing Adventures

Jack Nicklaus is widely regarded as an American hero—though it’s hard to measure a life defined by excellence, integrity, and generosity. He is far more than one of the greatest golfers in history; his impact reaches well beyond the game. What he and his wife Barbara Nicklaus have done for children’s healthcare is nothing short of extraordinary. Through the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, they have raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support pediatric care, benefiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital and a broad network of pediatric centers across South Florida.

His contributions have been recognized at the highest levels. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President of the United States, as well as the Congressional Gold Medal. He is also a recipient of the Lincoln Medal, honoring both his philanthropic and entrepreneurial achievements.

As the golf world reflects on the approaching 40th anniversary of his sixth green jacket at Augusta National Golf Club during The Masters Tournament, demand for his time—and his story—has never been greater. We’re especially grateful he chose to share it with us.

Away from golf, fishing has played a meaningful role in his life—something many people don’t realize. Over the years, he has pursued a wide range of game fish around the world, including landing a remarkable 1,358-pound blue marlin off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef shortly before winning the Australian Open in 1978. From bonefish and Atlantic salmon to permit and beyond, he has spent decades exploring distant waters with a fly rod in hand.

In this episode, we talk about that unforgettable day at Augusta nearly forty years ago, how he managed pressure at the highest level, his legacy in and beyond golf, his philanthropic work, and his lifelong passion for fishing.

Thank you, Jack, for the humility, kindness, and generosity you continue to show—qualities that define not just a champion, but one of our nation’s enduring heroes.

<description>Jack Nicklaus is widely regarded as an American hero—though it’s hard to measure a life defined by excellence, integrity, and generosity. He is far more than one of the greatest golfers in history; his impact reaches well beyond the game. What he and his wife Barbara Nicklaus have done for children’s healthcare is nothing short of extraordinary. Through the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, they have raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support pediatric care, benefiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital and a broad network of pediatric centers across South Florida.

His contributions have been recognized at the highest levels. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President of the United States, as well as the Congressional Gold Medal. He is also a recipient of the Lincoln Medal, honoring both his philanthropic and entrepreneurial achievements.

As the golf world reflects on the approaching 40th anniversary of his sixth green jacket at Augusta National Golf Club during The Masters Tournament, demand for his time—and his story—has never been greater. We’re especially grateful he chose to share it with us.

Away from golf, fishing has played a meaningful role in his life—something many people don’t realize. Over the years, he has pursued a wide range of game fish around the world, including landing a remarkable 1,358-pound blue marlin off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef shortly before winning the Australian Open in 1978. From bonefish and Atlantic salmon to permit and beyond, he has spent decades exploring distant waters with a fly rod in hand.

In this episode, we talk about that unforgettable day at Augusta nearly forty years ago, how he managed pressure at the highest level, his legacy in and beyond golf, his philanthropic work, and his lifelong passion for fishing.

Thank you, Jack, for the humility, kindness, and generosity you continue to show—qualities that define not just a champion, but one of our nation’s enduring heroes.</description>

In this episode, Jack gives us an inside look into his vibrant life in the outdoors, including a 1,358-pound blue marlin he caught off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. 

Jack Nicklaus is widely regarded as an American hero—though it’s hard to measure a life defined by excellence, integrity, and generosity. He is far more than one of the greatest golfers in history; his impact reaches well beyond the game. What he and his wife Barbara Nicklaus have done for children’s healthcare is nothing short of extraordinary. Through the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, they have raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support pediatric care, benefiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital and a broad network of pediatric centers across South Florida.

His contributions have been recognized at the highest levels. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President of the United States, as well as the Congressional Gold Medal. He is also a recipient of the Lincoln Medal, honoring both his philanthropic and entrepreneurial achievements.

As the golf world reflects on the approaching 40th anniversary of his sixth green jacket at Augusta National Golf Club during The Masters Tournament, demand for his time—and his story—has never been greater. We’re especially grateful he chose to share it with us.

Away from golf, fishing has played a meaningful role in his life—something many people don’t realize. Over the years, he has pursued a wide range of game fish around the world, including landing a remarkable 1,358-pound blue marlin off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef shortly before winning the Australian Open in 1978. From bonefish and Atlantic salmon to permit and beyond, he has spent decades exploring distant waters with a fly rod in hand.

In this episode, we talk about that unforgettable day at Augusta nearly forty years ago, how he managed pressure at the highest level, his legacy in and beyond golf, his philanthropic work, and his lifelong passion for fishing.

Thank you, Jack, for the humility, kindness, and generosity you continue to show—qualities that define not just a champion, but one of our nation’s enduring heroes.

Episode 161: Jack Nicklaus - The Untold Outdoor Life of Jack Nicklaus

Capt. Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton is a respected fishing guide based in Homosassa, known for his deep roots in Florida’s outdoor heritage and his expertise on the shallow flats of the state’s Nature Coast. A 7th-generation Floridian, Hamilton grew up immersed in the traditions of hunting and fishing, learning the waters around Homosassa from an early age and developing a lifelong connection to the region’s coastal ecosystems. 
With more than 15 years of professional guiding experience, Hamilton has built a reputation for technical sight-fishing and fly fishing in the crystal-clear flats of the Gulf Coast. He specializes in targeting tarpon on fly, while also guiding clients for species such as redfish, snook, speckled trout, and shallow-water grouper. 
Hamilton operates guided trips throughout the Homosassa area—from nearby grass flats to offshore waters—offering both fly-fishing and conventional tackle experiences. His charters are known for blending modern angling techniques with traditional “Old Florida” culture, including the well-known Homosassa shore lunch, where fresh-caught fish are prepared and enjoyed along the water. 
Beyond fishing, Hamilton remains active in the local guiding community. He has served with the Homosassa Guides Association, helping preserve the region’s long-standing guiding traditions. In addition to his work on the water, he also guides quail hunts during the winter months at a family preserve in Florida, reflecting his broader background as an outdoorsman. 
Known by the nickname “Stump,” Hamilton is recognized for his knowledge of tidal patterns, fish behavior, and the unique estuaries of Florida’s Nature Coast. His approach combines local tradition, conservation awareness, and a passion for sharing the outdoors with anglers of all skill levels.

<description>Capt. Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton is a respected fishing guide based in Homosassa, known for his deep roots in Florida’s outdoor heritage and his expertise on the shallow flats of the state’s Nature Coast. A 7th-generation Floridian, Hamilton grew up immersed in the traditions of hunting and fishing, learning the waters around Homosassa from an early age and developing a lifelong connection to the region’s coastal ecosystems. 

With more than 15 years of professional guiding experience, Hamilton has built a reputation for technical sight-fishing and fly fishing in the crystal-clear flats of the Gulf Coast. He specializes in targeting tarpon on fly, while also guiding clients for species such as redfish, snook, speckled trout, and shallow-water grouper. 

Hamilton operates guided trips throughout the Homosassa area—from nearby grass flats to offshore waters—offering both fly-fishing and conventional tackle experiences. His charters are known for blending modern angling techniques with traditional “Old Florida” culture, including the well-known Homosassa shore lunch, where fresh-caught fish are prepared and enjoyed along the water. 

Beyond fishing, Hamilton remains active in the local guiding community. He has served with the Homosassa Guides Association, helping preserve the region’s long-standing guiding traditions. In addition to his work on the water, he also guides quail hunts during the winter months at a family preserve in Florida, reflecting his broader background as an outdoorsman. 

Known by the nickname “Stump,” Hamilton is recognized for his knowledge of tidal patterns, fish behavior, and the unique estuaries of Florida’s Nature Coast. His approach combines local tradition, conservation awareness, and a passion for sharing the outdoors with anglers of all skill levels.</description>

In this episode, Stump talks about his transition from a Fireman to a full time guide, his heritage of being a 7th generation Floridian, and an update on the Homosassa Tarpon Fishery. 

Capt. Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton is a respected fishing guide based in Homosassa, known for his deep roots in Florida’s outdoor heritage and his expertise on the shallow flats of the state’s Nature Coast. A 7th-generation Floridian, Hamilton grew up immersed in the traditions of hunting and fishing, learning the waters around Homosassa from an early age and developing a lifelong connection to the region’s coastal ecosystems. 

With more than 15 years of professional guiding experience, Hamilton has built a reputation for technical sight-fishing and fly fishing in the crystal-clear flats of the Gulf Coast. He specializes in targeting tarpon on fly, while also guiding clients for species such as redfish, snook, speckled trout, and shallow-water grouper. 

Hamilton operates guided trips throughout the Homosassa area—from nearby grass flats to offshore waters—offering both fly-fishing and conventional tackle experiences. His charters are known for blending modern angling techniques with traditional “Old Florida” culture, including the well-known Homosassa shore lunch, where fresh-caught fish are prepared and enjoyed along the water. 

Beyond fishing, Hamilton remains active in the local guiding community. He has served with the Homosassa Guides Association, helping preserve the region’s long-standing guiding traditions. In addition to his work on the water, he also guides quail hunts during the winter months at a family preserve in Florida, reflecting his broader background as an outdoorsman. 

Known by the nickname “Stump,” Hamilton is recognized for his knowledge of tidal patterns, fish behavior, and the unique estuaries of Florida’s Nature Coast. His approach combines local tradition, conservation awareness, and a passion for sharing the outdoors with anglers of all skill levels.

Episode 160: Capt. Jonathan "Stump" Hamilton - Homosassa Fishing Co.

Capt. Nick LaBadie is a Florida native through and through. Raised on the Gulf Coast just minutes from Boca Grande, he grew up fishing one of the most renowned tarpon fisheries in the world. From the time he could hold a rod, he was hooked—spending his childhood on the water and developing a deep-rooted passion for life on the water.

After moving to the Florida Keys, Nick quickly became captivated by the technical challenges and endless opportunities of the flats. He poured himself into the art of sight fishing in shallow water, targeting a variety of species with both fly and spinning gear. The precision, patience, and strategy required to consistently succeed on the flats soon became his specialty.

Deep down, though, Nick is a permit junkie—and a highly accomplished one at that. His passion for chasing these notoriously challenging fish has translated into tournament success, including winning the IGFA Permit Tournament in 2020 alongside guide Brandon Cyr, the March Merkin in 2024 with angler Rob Dougherty, and the Del Brown Permit Tournament in 2025 with angler Kat Vallilee. These victories reflect not only his dedication to the species, but also his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure.

Since 2012, Nick has guided anglers throughout the flats and backcountry waters of Key West and the Lower Keys. From Big Pine Key to the Marquesas Keys, he has spent countless hours exploring and refining techniques that consistently put clients in position for success.

<description>Capt. Nick LaBadie is a Florida native through and through. Raised on the Gulf Coast just minutes from Boca Grande, he grew up fishing one of the most renowned tarpon fisheries in the world. From the time he could hold a rod, he was hooked—spending his childhood on the water and developing a deep-rooted passion for life on the water.

After moving to the Florida Keys, Nick quickly became captivated by the technical challenges and endless opportunities of the flats. He poured himself into the art of sight fishing in shallow water, targeting a variety of species with both fly and spinning gear. The precision, patience, and strategy required to consistently succeed on the flats soon became his specialty.

Deep down, though, Nick is a permit junkie—and a highly accomplished one at that. His passion for chasing these notoriously challenging fish has translated into tournament success, including winning the IGFA Permit Tournament in 2020 alongside guide Brandon Cyr, the March Merkin in 2024 with angler Rob Dougherty, and the Del Brown Permit Tournament in 2025 with angler Kat Vallilee. These victories reflect not only his dedication to the species, but also his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure.

Since 2012, Nick has guided anglers throughout the flats and backcountry waters of Key West and the Lower Keys. From Big Pine Key to the Marquesas Keys, he has spent countless hours exploring and refining techniques that consistently put clients in position for success.</description>

In this episode, Nick talks to us about what he learned mating with Capt. Ed Walker in Boca Grande, the daunting move to Key West to become a fishing guide, and his success in the permit tournaments. 

Capt. Nick LaBadie is a Florida native through and through. Raised on the Gulf Coast just minutes from Boca Grande, he grew up fishing one of the most renowned tarpon fisheries in the world. From the time he could hold a rod, he was hooked—spending his childhood on the water and developing a deep-rooted passion for life on the water.

After moving to the Florida Keys, Nick quickly became captivated by the technical challenges and endless opportunities of the flats. He poured himself into the art of sight fishing in shallow water, targeting a variety of species with both fly and spinning gear. The precision, patience, and strategy required to consistently succeed on the flats soon became his specialty.

Deep down, though, Nick is a permit junkie—and a highly accomplished one at that. His passion for chasing these notoriously challenging fish has translated into tournament success, including winning the IGFA Permit Tournament in 2020 alongside guide Brandon Cyr, the March Merkin in 2024 with angler Rob Dougherty, and the Del Brown Permit Tournament in 2025 with angler Kat Vallilee. These victories reflect not only his dedication to the species, but also his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure.

Since 2012, Nick has guided anglers throughout the flats and backcountry waters of Key West and the Lower Keys. From Big Pine Key to the Marquesas Keys, he has spent countless hours exploring and refining techniques that consistently put clients in position for success.

Episode 159: Capt. Nick LaBadie - Tailing Water Expeditions 

With a passion for storytelling, Mill House is more than a fishing podcast. Comprised of in-depth conversations with innovators, legends, and pioneers of the outdoors, we expose untold and compelling stories from industry leaders.

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