Athlete On Fire

Scott Jones and Brett Armour both own facilities on the western slope of Colorado in Grand Junction and Fruita.This conversation explores the journey of establishing Armour Athletics in Grand Junction, focusing on community impact, personal ties to the area, and the evolution of youth sports training. They discuss their backgrounds in athletics, the importance of discipline in youth sports, and the challenges of running a sports facility. They also delve into the trends in skill development, arm care, and the role of coaches in shaping young athletes' futures.We hope you enjoy this episode and share it with other parents of young athletes!

This episode explores the journey of two friends, Scott and Chris, as they share their experiences in hunting, the challenges they faced, and the lessons learned along the way. From early influences and personal stories to the cultural significance of hunting, they discuss the importance of perseverance, preparation, and the joy of sharing these experiences with the next generation. Scott and Chris started hunting in Colorado the same year and have been learning everything they can over the last 5-6 years! We hope you enjoy the storytelling and journey!Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey01:17 Early Influences and Background03:29 The Return to Hunting05:40 First Harvest Experience10:17 Cultural Significance of Hunting12:09 Overcoming Barriers to Entry13:29 Learning Through Experience16:10 The Challenges of Elk Hunting19:21 Lessons from the First Year24:49 Scouting and Preparation28:42 The Thrill of the Hunt32:25 Reflections on the Experience34:09 The Importance of Companionship36:50 The Second Year of Hunting51:14 The Hardest Physical Challenge58:13 The Final Moments of the Hunt01:04:09 Celebrating Success01:10:55 Lessons Learned and Future Goals01:16:14 The Importance of Teaching the Next Generation01:22:15 Dream Hunts and Future Aspirations

On this episode Katie Wightman shares her journey from a background in national parks and being an avid hunter. She discusses her experiences with trail running and the Becoming Ultra project, solo adventures in the wilderness, and the importance of mentorship in hunting. She reflects on her first big game hunt, the techniques she employs, and the philosophical aspects of hunting, including its role in conservation and sustainable living. She emphasizes the importance of understanding where food comes from and the responsibilities that come with hunting!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Keity Whiteman00:55 Keity's Background in National Parks04:39 Trail Running and Its Connection to Hunting08:28 Solo Adventures and Safety in the Wilderness16:43 The Night Run Experience28:01 Keity's Journey into Hunting34:46 First Big Game Hunt Experience42:07 Hunting Styles and Techniques46:45 The Importance of Mentorship in Hunting01:11:42 Philosophical Views on Hunting and Conservation

Charlie Pappas has one speed and one focus. All out and laser. Charlie mentored Scott by getting him his first bow, teaching him how to shoot, and taking him on his first hunt(an epic one at that). His passion for the outdoors, his family, his friends, his work, and everything else is completely contagious.  We hope you walk away from this episode inspired to do and be better. We did!

Zero To Harvest is a new series with Athlete On Fire. Exploring why and how everyday hunters do what they do! Hope you enjoy!Ben Welnak is the reason Athlete On Fire exists. His podcast was the first time I knew there was such a thing back 15 years ago. Life happens, and interests change and now we sit down to talk about our newest and biggest passion, hunting. We explore the journey of hunting and outdoor experiences, focusing on the evolution from childhood influences to adult hunting practices. We talk about fishing, hunting, and the lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, patience, and the willingness to learn from mistakes. We delve into experiences and lessons learned from hunting, particularly elk hunting. They discuss the importance of calmness, confidence, and the need for practical experience over theoretical knowledge. The conversation highlights the progression of skills in hunting, the significance of being prepared, and the societal and conservation aspects of hunting. They emphasize the value of sharing experiences to educate others and foster a deeper connection with nature.Chapters00:00 The Origins of Podcasting and Hunting Journeys02:46 Childhood Influences and Early Outdoor Experiences05:30 The Transition to Hunting and Mentorship08:13 First Experiences with Fishing and Hunting11:02 Lessons Learned from Early Hunting Adventures14:14 The Importance of Patience in Hunting16:49 The Evolution of Hunting Skills and Techniques19:49 The First Harvest and Learning to Process Game22:40 Reflections on Mistakes and Growth in Hunting25:17 Access to Hunting Grounds and Overcoming Barriers28:31 The Journey of Learning and Sharing Experiences49:01 Learning Through Experience in Hunting52:08 The Importance of Confidence and Calmness54:40 Progression in Hunting Skills58:51 Lessons from Elk Hunting Adventures01:13:48 Efficiency in Hunting Gear and Techniques01:15:58 The Societal Importance of Hunting and Conservation